Used Aircraft Guide


Airplane
Ownership

Aircraft Buying: Advice from
the Experts

Aircraft
Partnerships

Additional Resources:
AVIONICS
VALUES

In 1975, it was a snap to determine the average avionics package. However, as the fleet ages, and older aircraft are equipped with the latest avionics, the "average" package has become the exception rather than the rule. The modern avionics package now represents a significant percentage of the aircraft value, and should be properly calculated as such.

Be wary of any price guide that includes an "average" avionics package in the average retail value. First, you'll have to determine exactly what that package consists of. Secondly, if you've replaced that old Cessna nav/com with a new digital KX-155, you'll need to first subtract the value of the old unit, then add for the 155. If the entire original package has been upgraded, the odds of an accurate appraisal are slim indeed.

A note here about avionics: most buyers are looking for an IFR radio package, even if they're not instrument rated. If you're one of these, avoid the temptation to buy a plane with VFR radios (for a lower price) and then add your own. Remember that the instant you install that brand new KX-165 in the airplane, you now own a USED KX-165. (Just like driving a new car off the lot!) The person who eventually buys your plane will care little about the age of the radio- his major concern will be "Does it work?". Be patient and keep looking until you find what you want- it will be easier to re- sell, and save you lots of money in the meantime. (We recommend you review the page "Avionics Values" in the library list above).

One note of caution in regard to GPS units- many owners do not understand the difference between "certifiable" and "certified". When you install that WhizBang 500 IFR certifiable GPS in your aircraft, you may not use if for IFR flight until it is certified in that aircraft. This certification requires either an STC or FAA form 337, as well as an FAA approved flight manual supplement specifically for this unit in a particular aircraft (as designated by N number in the supplement). The cost of doing this can run from $2,000 up, and adds considerable value to the panel. Don't be fooled by paying too much for an installed "certifiable" unit- ask to see the paperwork.

Our Skyhawk is equipped with the Cessna "NavPak", as well as a LORAN and DME. A phone call to the seller confirms that it has dual Cessna 300 series LED nav/coms, one with glideslope, a Cessna 300 ADF, King KN-64 DME and a Century 1 autopilot.

Our Aircraft Appraisal software automatically adds +$3,528 for the avionics. This amount does not reflect the cost of new units, but rather the average additional premium a buyer is willing to pay for these items previously installed in this year and model aircraft.