You will find the Reader Resource references throughout this book. When you come across them, refer back to this page for the resource indicated.
A good source of information on aircraft partnerships is the AOPA article Pilot’s Guide to Co-Ownership.
Personal Aircraft Operating Cost Calculator
To assist in fully considering expenses, you can use this basic personal aircraft operating cost calculator to compare characteristics and considerations associated with both fixed and variable costs of aircraft ownership, maintenance, and operation.
Loans
You can use the loan calculator tool available from Bankrate to obtain an estimated bank loan cost.
Aircraft Type Clubs
The Experimental Aircraft Associations list of aircraft type clubs.
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
A fantastic set of resources is available at AOPA’s website, including information and links to needed forms, to help you understand and navigate the purchase process. See “Buying an Aircraft: Resources to Help With the Aircraft Purchase Process.”
Aircraft Valuation
VREF Aircraft Value Reference is generally considered a good benchmark for many general aviation aircraft. VREF Publishing is a commercially available service that serves much like a “blue book” for aircraft.
Researching Aircraft History
Search the NTSB accident database. Make sure to check if there have been any N-number changes in the aircraft’s history. If so, check accident or incident records on all the N-numbers that have been associated with the aircraft.
Purchasing an Aircraft Located Outside the United States
If you are considering purchasing an aircraft located outside of the country, first read the AvBuyer’s article, “Exporting or Importing Aircraft?”
Designated Airworthiness Representatives (DARs)
Find out more information about this program and how to find a DAR. DARs are private individuals who act as representatives of the FAA and who work with owners to inspect aircraft after completed builds.
Kitplanes
A publication that focuses on owners and operators of homebuilt aircraft. This is a great resource worth reading for anyone considering a purchase of a used experimental or homebuilt aircraft. See this article “Buying a Used Homebuilt”
The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
A great resource for aircraft owners and builders and offers a great fly-in convention/conference every year (AirVenture).
More about Jason Blair and his books at AnAviatorsFieldGuide.com
More about Jason Blair and his industry involvement at JasonBlair.net