Guide to Member Services

AOPA, 421 AVIATION WAY,
FREDERICK, MARYLAND 21701

TOLL-FREE PILOT INFORMATION CENTER
Call 800/USA-AOPA (872-2672)
Click www.aopa.org

NEW ADDRESS?
Send your new address and AOPA membership number to AOPA, 421 Aviation Way, Frederick, Maryland 21701-4798
Fax 301/695-2375
Click www.aopa.org/coa-form.html

AOPA AIR SAFETY FOUNDATION
Call 800/638-3101
Click www.aopa.org/asf/

AOPA CREDIT CARD PROGRAM
Call 800/523-7666
Click www.aopa.org/info/cc/

AOPA AIRCRAFT INSURANCE
Call 800/622-AOPA (622-2672)
Click www.aopa.org/aircraftinsurance.html

AOPA LEGAL SERVICES PLAN
Call 800/USA-AOPA (872-2672)
Click www.aopa.org/legalservices.html

AOPA ONLINE TRAVEL
Click www.aopa.org/travel/

OTHER AOPA MEMBER PRODUCTS
Call 800/USA-AOPA (872-2672)
Click www.aopa.org/memberproducts/

Become an AOPA life member

AOPA life members are dedicated to general aviation and promoting GA safety. "AOPA's life members rank among the greatest heroes of the past 100 years," says AOPA President Phil Boyer. AOPA life members are true leaders in the GA community and their ongoing commitment keeps the skies safe for all pilots. Life membership is extended by invitation to pilots willing to contribute $2,500 or more to the AOPA Air Safety Foundation. The contribution goes toward continuing ASF's research and educational programs. In return for a life membership contribution, members receive:

• Lifetime membership benefits in AOPA.
• A $2,000 tax deduction.
• A framed AOPA life member certificate personally signed by Boyer and ASF Executive Director Bruce Landsberg.
• A distinctive AOPA life member card.
• A distinctive AOPA life member lapel pin.
• Annual recognition in the ASF's safety and philanthropy report.

To take your commitment to the next level, visit the Web site or call 800/955-9115.

Your new (to you) airplane

The purchase of an aircraft represents a major commitment that should be approached carefully and cautiously. Nowhere is this more important than when buying a used aircraft. AOPA recommends careful consideration of the following points before making your purchase. With a little advance planning and legwork, your aircraft purchase can turn out to be an enjoyable experience.

• Analyze your needs. You can save a bundle by matching your needs and aircraft capability closely. Avoid the trap of buying more than you need or can use. Take the time to analyze your requirements and be realistic.
• Know where to look. Shop around and get some pricing information. AOPA can help. Try to keep your search close to home.
• Get the right financing. The amount you borrow will have a substantial impact on the total cost of your purchase. Find the right source of financing and shop around.
• Perform an aircraft valuation. Use Vref on AOPA Online.
• Fly before you buy. During the flight carefully check all equipment and systems, paying attention to communication and navigation equipment, autopilots, and door and window seals.
• Get a prepurchase inspection. Have a mechanic you trust give the aircraft a thorough inspection and provide you with a written report of its condition.
• Check the aircraft records. Make sure all documents are available and in proper order.
• Get the right insurance. Seek the help of an experienced aviation underwriter to determine the coverage you need.

Complete information on buying a used aircraft is available on AOPA Online.

Thinking about a more complex aircraft?

If you are considering moving up to a more complex aircraft — or transitioning to any different aircraft, for that matter — be sure to contact the AOPA Insurance Agency before you go aircraft shopping. The AOPA Insurance Agency will be able to advise you about what various underwriters will require for minimum pilot qualifications, common checkout requirements, and an estimate of annual insurance costs for various types of aircraft. It's important to shop for insurance early in the process. For more tips on controlling your aircraft insurance costs, call the AOPA Insurance Agency for a free copy of its recently published booklet, 10 Strategies for Controlling Your Aircraft Insurance Costs. Call 800/622-2672 for more information or a free, no-obligation quote.