AOPA Services

The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association is general aviation's advocate and the largest, most influential aviation association in the world. Its membership of more than 414,000 comprises nearly two-thirds of all pilots in the United States. Visit and bookmark our Web site designed especially to serve the information needs of student pilots. All AOPA Flight Training members, including those with free six-month introductory memberships, have full access to AOPA's resources, including the members-only areas of AOPA Flight Training Online and AOPA Online.

Looking to buy? AOPA can help

You may have noticed many airplanes for sale in the listings of your favorite aviation news outlet. A rough economy has put a lot of used aircraft on the market, and there are deals to be had all over the place.

But one thing remains the same: Purchasing a used aircraft requires a lot of homework for the would-be owner. Before you sign any purchase agreement, make sure you have done that homework, and let AOPA help you.

We have services for every step of the transaction, from the initial search for your dream airplane on AOPA’s classifieds to aircraft insurance through the AOPA Insurance Agency.

An extremely useful tool is Vref, an aircraft valuation service. Simply go to the Web site, select the type of airplane you’re thinking of buying from the list, and up pops the valuation sheet. If you’re considering a particular model and year, the default values will give you a good idea about average prices.

Suppose you’ve found an airplane but aren’t sure the asking price is in line with reality? The value of an airplane varies with age, hours, condition, and equipment, so finding the exact valuation can often be difficult. Vref values are based upon actual reported sales figures from the past quarter, so you know you’re getting an accurate price.

If you have additional questions during the shopping process—and who doesn’t?—call AOPA’s Pilot Information Center (800-USA-AOPA) from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern for more detailed valuations and advice.