8 Best Places to Sell an Airplane (And How to Get the Best Price)

Selling an airplane is a bigger deal than most people expect. It's not like posting a car on Craigslist and waiting for calls. You're dealing with FAA paperwork, detailed maintenance logs, and a buyer pool that's smaller but much more serious. So where do you actually go to find the right buyer?

The good news? You have real options. With over 200,000 general aviation aircraft registered in the United States alone, there's a large and active community of pilots, flight schools, and enthusiasts looking for their next plane. The key is knowing the best places to sell an airplane so you reach the right people, at the right time, without leaving money on the table.

In this guide, we'll go over eight proven platforms, break down how each one works, and share practical tips to help you sell faster and for a fair price. 

Whether you're listing a Cessna 172 trainer or a business turboprop, there's a platform that fits your situation.

Key Takeaways

The best places to sell an airplane include online marketplaces like Trade-A-Plane, Flying411,  and Controller, classified sites like Barnstormers, international platforms like AvBuyer, aircraft brokers, social media groups, and local flying clubs or FBOs. Your best option depends on your aircraft type, your timeline, and how much of the selling process you want to handle yourself. Pricing your plane based on actual recent sales — not just asking prices — and preparing clean documentation are the two things that speed up a sale more than anything else.

Why Is Selling an Airplane Different From Selling a Car?

If you've sold a car before, you might think selling a plane works the same way. It doesn't — and understanding the differences upfront saves you a lot of headaches.

The Paperwork Is More Complex

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires specific documents for every aircraft sale. You'll need to transfer the registration, provide complete maintenance logs, and file an official bill of sale. A car sale might take an afternoon. An airplane sale often takes several months because buyers inspect everything carefully before committing.

The Price Changes Everything

A used car might run $5,000 to $50,000. Even a small single-engine Piper or Cessna can cost $50,000 to $200,000 or more. When that much money is on the line, buyers slow down. They review every maintenance record, ask detailed questions, and almost always hire a mechanic to inspect the plane before they buy.

Your Buyer Pool Is Smaller

Car buyers are everywhere. Airplane buyers are pilots, flight schools, or people actively working toward their license. You can't just post a "For Sale" sign and hope for the best. You need to reach the aviation community through the right channels.

Here's a quick comparison:

Tip: The right platform puts your plane in front of people who understand its value and have the money ready to buy. That's why choosing where to list matters so much.

What Should You Do Before You List Your Airplane?

Preparation is the difference between a smooth sale and months of frustration. Smart sellers get everything in order before they post a single listing.

Gather Your Documents

Start by collecting all your paperwork in one place. You'll need your aircraft registration, airworthiness certificate, maintenance logs, and any modification records (like supplemental type certificates). Buyers want to see a complete history of your plane. Missing documents raise red flags and can scare away serious buyers — or lower your sale price significantly.

Know Your Plane's Condition

Be honest with yourself about what works and what doesn't. Small squawks are normal, but you need to know about them before a buyer asks. Many sellers get a pre-sale inspection to uncover any issues early. This costs money upfront, but it helps you price the plane accurately and shows buyers you're transparent.

Take Great Photos

Your listing photos are your first impression. Take pictures on a sunny day with a clean, freshly washed plane. Shoot the exterior from multiple angles, the instrument panel up close, the interior seats, the engine compartment, and the cargo area. Listings with clear, well-lit photos get significantly more inquiries.

Set a Realistic Price

This is where many sellers trip up. Look at what similar planes actually sold for recently — not just what other people are asking. There's often a big gap between asking prices and actual sale prices. An aircraft broker can help you understand current market values, or you can check completed sales on major platforms.

Key Point: Overpricing is the number one reason planes sit unsold for months. Price fairly from the start, and you'll attract serious buyers much faster.

Pre-Sale Checklist

Here's everything you should have ready before listing:

Understanding aircraft escrow and bill of sale procedures helps protect both you and the buyer during the transaction. Many aircraft sales use escrow services to hold funds safely until all paperwork is complete and the title transfers cleanly.

The 8 Best Places to Sell an Airplane

Now let's get into the platforms themselves. Each one reaches a different audience and works in a different way. The best choice for you depends on what you're selling, how fast you need to sell, and how much of the process you want to handle on your own.

1. Trade-A-Plane

Trade-A-Plane is one of the oldest and most recognized names in aircraft sales. It started as a printed magazine back in 1937 and has since become a major online marketplace. Thousands of aircraft buyers visit the site every day.

You can list your plane yourself or have a broker post it for you. The site displays detailed listings with photos, specifications, and contact information. Buyers search by aircraft type, price range, location, and other filters.

What it costs: Monthly listing fees typically range from $50 to $150, depending on the package and visibility options you choose. Featured listings cost extra but appear at the top of search results.

Why sellers choose Trade-A-Plane:

• Huge audience of active buyers across the U.S.
• Easy-to-use listing tools and mobile app
• Strong reputation in the general aviation community
• Options to feature your listing for extra visibility
• Reaches recreational pilots, flight schools, and dealers

Best for: Sellers of trainers, single-engine piston aircraft, and popular GA planes like Cessna 172s, Piper Cherokees, and Beechcraft Bonanzas.

2. Flying411

Flying411 goes beyond simply a listing site — it's a growing aviation community platform built for pilots, owners, and enthusiasts. What makes Flying411 different is that your airplane listing sits alongside educational content, aviation guides, and an engaged community of people who are actively involved in general aviation. That means the buyers browsing Flying411 aren't just window-shopping — they're plugged into the aviation world and serious about flying.

You can create a detailed listing with photos, specs, and pricing, and your plane gets visibility in front of an audience that's already reading about aircraft ownership, maintenance, and buying decisions. Because Flying411 also publishes in-depth content on topics like pre-purchase inspections, aircraft types, and cost of ownership, buyers who find your listing often arrive more informed and ready to move forward.

What it costs: Flying411 offers affordable listing options designed for private sellers and smaller dealers, making it accessible whether you're selling a trainer or a cross-country cruiser.

Why sellers choose Flying411:

• Listings reach an engaged aviation community, not just passive browsers
• Educational content on the site helps attract informed, serious buyers
• Affordable listing fees that work for private sellers
• Easy-to-use platform with a clean, modern interface
• Built-in aviation resources help buyers and sellers through the entire process

Best for: Private owners selling GA aircraft who want their listing in front of an active, knowledgeable aviation community — especially trainers, piston singles, and popular cross-country planes.

3. Controller

Controller targets the higher end of the market. If you're selling a business jet, turboprop, helicopter, or multi-engine aircraft, this is where serious buyers with bigger budgets shop.

The platform offers excellent search filters and side-by-side comparison tools. Controller also verifies listings to reduce fake or misleading posts, which builds buyer confidence. Many professional aviation services and dealers use this platform because it reaches the business aviation community.

What it costs: Listing fees are higher than most other platforms, but the qualified buyers who visit tend to be ready to move quickly.

Why sellers choose Controller:

• Focused on jets, turbines, and higher-value aircraft
• Professional listing tools with detailed specifications
• International reach for overseas buyers
• Market reports and valuation tools
• Attracts business aviation professionals

Best for: Owners of turboprops, jets, helicopters, and aircraft valued above $250,000.

4. Barnstormers

Barnstormers has been around since 1996, and it's a favorite among budget-conscious buyers and sellers. The platform is affordable, simple, and widely used in the general aviation community.

You can list everything from complete airplanes to parts and accessories. Basic listings are free for private sellers, though featured listings are available for a small fee. Many pilots check Barnstormers first when they start shopping for a plane, which means good exposure for your listing.

What it costs: Free for basic listings. Featured placement is available at a low cost.

Why sellers choose Barnstormers:

• Free basic listings keep costs at zero
• Large community of GA pilots who trust the platform
• Great for older, lower-priced, or project aircraft
• Simple listing process with no complicated setup
• Also useful for selling parts, avionics, and accessories

Best for: Private sellers of piston singles, experimental aircraft, project planes, and anyone who wants to keep listing costs minimal.

5. AvBuyer

If your aircraft might appeal to buyers outside the United States, AvBuyer opens up the international market. This platform reaches buyers in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. It supports multiple currencies and languages, which makes it easier for overseas buyers to engage with your listing.

AvBuyer also publishes market reports and pricing trends that help you understand where your aircraft fits in the global market.

What it costs: Varies by listing package. Professional-level listings with broker support are available at higher price points.

Why sellers choose AvBuyer:

• Access to international buyers outside the U.S.
• Professional-quality listing presentation
• Support for cross-border transactions
• Market data and pricing trends
• Strong focus on business jets, turboprops, and newer aircraft

Best for: Sellers of low-time or newer aircraft, business jets, and turboprops with international appeal.

6. Aircraft Brokers

Working with an aircraft broker means hiring a professional to handle your sale from start to finish. Brokers take professional photos, write your listing, post it across multiple platforms, screen inquiries, negotiate with buyers, and coordinate the paperwork.

Good brokers list your plane on Trade-A-Plane, Controller, AvBuyer, and their own websites simultaneously. This multi-platform approach gives you wide exposure without you doing the work.

What it costs: Most brokers charge a commission of 5–10% of the final sale price. You typically pay nothing upfront — the fee comes out of the proceeds when the plane sells.

How commission works in real numbers:

Why sellers choose brokers:

• Professional photos and listing creation
• Multi-platform marketing exposure
• Buyer screening (only serious inquiries reach you)
• Experience with negotiations and pricing
• Help with FAA paperwork, escrow, and closing

Best for: Busy aircraft owners who want a hands-off sale, sellers of high-value aircraft, and anyone who isn't comfortable negotiating or managing the sales process themselves.

7. Social Media Groups and Online Forums

Facebook groups, pilot forums, and online aviation communities offer free ways to reach buyers directly. Popular groups include "Airplanes for Sale," regional pilot groups, and type-specific communities (like Cessna 172 owners or Mooney pilots).

You post photos and details for free, and interested buyers contact you directly. This approach works especially well for popular planes or when you want to reach local buyers.

What it costs: Free.

The tradeoff: Your post can get buried quickly as new content appears. You'll need to repost regularly, manage all inquiries yourself, and screen buyers on your own.

Social media selling tips:

• Join multiple groups to reach a wider audience
• Post clear photos and complete details (hours, price, location)
• Respond quickly — fast replies keep buyers engaged
• Be prepared for lowball offers and tire-kickers
• Check buyer references before scheduling in-person showings

Best for: Quick local sales, popular aircraft types, sellers comfortable with direct negotiation, and anyone who wants zero listing costs.

8. Local Flying Clubs and FBOs

Your local airport is often overlooked, but it can be surprisingly effective. Posting a flyer at your Fixed Base Operator (FBO) or flying club bulletin board costs almost nothing. Local buyers can see your plane in person easily, which speeds up the decision process.

Many FBOs let you park your plane on their ramp with a "For Sale" sign visible to pilots who fly in and out daily. Flight schools sometimes know students who are ready to move from renting to owning, and they may recommend your plane if it fits.

What it costs: Free or minimal (cost of printing a flyer).

Why local selling works:

• Zero advertising cost
• Buyers can inspect the plane without travel
• Face-to-face negotiations build trust
• Local mechanics may recommend your plane to their clients
• Great for building relationships in your aviation community

Best for: Trainers like the Cessna 172 or Piper Cherokee, planes that appeal to local recreational pilots, and sellers who prefer personal, face-to-face transactions. Buying a flight school Cessna 172 is a common first step for many new pilots, so if you have a trainer, local marketing makes a lot of sense.

Platform Comparison: Which One Is Right for You?

Here's a side-by-side look at all eight options to help you decide:

How to Combine Multiple Platforms for Faster Results

Many successful sellers don't pick just one platform — they use several at once. You might list on Trade-A-Plane for broad exposure, post in Facebook groups for local interest, and put a "For Sale" sign on your plane at the airport. This multi-channel approach reaches more buyers and increases your chances of finding the right person quickly.

A few ground rules for multi-platform listing:

• Keep your information consistent. Use the same photos, description, and price everywhere. Buyers sometimes find the same plane on multiple sites, and inconsistent information makes them suspicious.
• Update all listings together. When you drop the price or fix a squawk, update every platform at the same time.
• Track where your inquiries come from. If most calls come from one site, focus your energy there and consider dropping the others to save money.

Pro Tip: If you're working with a broker, ask which platforms they list on. A good broker already does multi-platform marketing as part of their service, so you may not need to list separately.

How to Make Your Listing Stand Out

No matter which platform you choose, a strong listing attracts more buyers and leads to faster sales. Here's what separates a good listing from a great one.

Photos Matter More Than You Think

Take photos on a clear day with the sun behind you. Clean your plane inside and out before shooting. Include shots of the exterior from multiple angles, the instrument panel, the seats, the cargo area, and the engine compartment. Listings with 10 or more clear photos get noticeably more inquiries than those with just a few.

Write an Honest, Detailed Description

List the make, model, and year. Include total airframe hours, engine hours (and time since major overhaul), a full avionics list with model numbers, useful load, fuel capacity, annual inspection status, any damage history, and recent upgrades or improvements. Be upfront about squawks or items that need attention — honesty builds trust and closes sales faster.

Listing Description Checklist

Understanding What Buyers Expect

Today's aircraft buyers do their homework before they ever contact you. They research book values, compare prices across multiple sites, and read reviews of the planes they're considering. Here's what you should be ready for.

They'll Want Documentation First

Most serious buyers ask to see maintenance logs before scheduling a visit. They'll ask about accidents, incidents, and any significant repairs. Have clear answers and documentation ready.

They'll Request a Pre-Buy Inspection

The pre-buy inspection is standard in aircraft sales. The buyer hires a mechanic (usually an A&P or IA they trust) to go through your plane thoroughly. This inspection typically costs the buyer $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the aircraft. Smart sellers support this process because it gives buyers confidence and helps close the deal.

They'll Negotiate

Almost every aircraft sale involves some negotiation. Buyers may point to squawks found in the pre-buy, compare your price to similar listings, or ask for concessions. Be prepared, stay professional, and know your bottom line going in.

Tip: Serious buyers have financing arranged or cash ready. They move quickly when they find the right plane at the right price. Your job is to make their decision easy by providing complete information and responding promptly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Airplane

Even experienced aircraft owners stumble when it comes to selling. Here are the most common mistakes — and how to avoid them.

How Seasonal Timing Affects Aircraft Sales

The aviation market has seasonal patterns that can work in your favor if you plan your listing timing.

Spring and summer are typically the busiest buying seasons. Warmer weather means more people flying, more flight training happening, and more buyers actively shopping. If you can time your listing to go live in March or April, you'll benefit from peak demand.

Fall and winter tend to be slower, but they're not dead. Buyers shopping in the off-season are often very serious — they're not casual browsers. You may also face less competition from other sellers during these months.

Bottom Line: If you have flexibility, listing in early spring gives you the best chance of a quick sale at a strong price. But a well-priced, well-presented plane can sell any time of year.

Conclusion

The best places to sell an airplane depend on what you're selling, how quickly you need to sell, and how much of the process you want to manage yourself. Online marketplaces like Trade-A-Plane and Controller give you the widest reach. Barnstormers keeps costs low. AvBuyer opens up international buyers. Brokers handle everything for a commission. And free options like social media and local FBOs work well for the right situations.

No matter which platform you choose, the fundamentals stay the same: gather your documents, take great photos, price based on real market data, and be honest and responsive with buyers. The aviation community runs on trust, and sellers who communicate clearly close deals faster.

Ready to list your plane and connect with serious buyers? Flying411 offers tools and resources to help you through every step of the airplane selling process. Start your listing today and reach the aviation community looking for their next plane.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it typically take to sell an airplane?

Most aircraft sell within three to six months on major platforms when priced at market value. Popular trainers and well-maintained planes often sell faster, while rare or high-value aircraft can take eight months or longer. Using multiple platforms, pricing fairly from the start, and having complete documentation all help speed things up.

What are the best places to sell an airplane if I want a quick sale?

For the fastest sale, consider aircraft dealers who buy planes outright — often within days to weeks. Social media groups can also produce quick results, especially for popular aircraft types. The tradeoff is that you'll likely get a lower price than you would through a marketplace listing or broker. If speed matters more than maximizing your sale price, these are your best options.

Do I need to pay taxes when I sell my airplane?

Federal income taxes don't usually apply to private aircraft sales directly, but you may owe capital gains tax if you sell for more than your adjusted cost basis (what you originally paid, minus depreciation). Some states charge sales or use tax on aircraft transactions — the rules vary widely. Talk to a tax professional who understands aviation transactions before completing your sale.

Can I sell my airplane if it has a loan on it?

Yes. The buyer's payment typically goes through an escrow service that pays off your remaining loan balance first, then sends you the difference. Your lender will release the lien once the loan is satisfied, which allows the title to transfer cleanly to the new owner. This is standard practice and most buyers are comfortable with the process.

Should I get my airplane inspected before listing it for sale?

A pre-sale inspection isn't required, but many sellers find it worthwhile. It helps you find problems early, price the plane accurately, and show buyers you're being transparent. You'll spend money on the inspection, but it often pays for itself through a faster sale and fewer surprises during the buyer's pre-buy inspection.

What documents do I need to complete an airplane sale?

You'll need the aircraft registration, airworthiness certificate, weight and balance data, complete maintenance logbooks, an FAA Bill of Sale (AC Form 8050-2), and an Aircraft Registration Application (AC Form 8050-1). Buyers also want to see all service records, modification paperwork, and any supplemental type certificates. Having these organized before listing makes the entire process smoother.

How much does it cost to list an airplane for sale?

Costs range from free to several hundred dollars per month. Barnstormers and social media groups are free. Trade-A-Plane charges around $50 to $150 per month. Controller's fees are higher but target a premium audience. Aircraft brokers charge no upfront fee but take 5–10% of the final sale price as commission. Your total cost depends on how many platforms you use and how long it takes to sell.

What's the difference between using a broker and selling my airplane myself?

When you sell yourself, you handle photos, listings, inquiries, negotiations, and paperwork — but you keep the full sale price. A broker does all of that for you in exchange for a commission (typically 5–10% of the sale price). Brokers also bring market expertise, buyer connections, and multi-platform exposure. If you're comfortable managing the process and have time, selling yourself saves money. If you want a hands-off experience or are selling a high-value aircraft, a broker is often worth the cost.