Aircraft Owners Are the Best People to Sell Their Own Aircraft
When it comes to selling your aircraft, many owners automatically think about using a broker. While brokers can sometimes help, in most cases you are actually the best person to sell your own aircraft.
Here’s why.
You Know Your Aircraft Better Than Anyone
You’ve flown it, maintained it, and lived with its quirks. You know its history, its condition, and exactly what’s been done to it over the years. No broker or salesperson will ever understand your aircraft as well as you do — unless you pay someone full-time to manage it for you.
This deep knowledge gives you a real advantage when it comes to:
- Setting a realistic and fair asking price
- Explaining the aircraft’s condition honestly to buyers
- Answering technical questions quickly and accurately
Brokers Have Their Own Agenda
Many brokers will give you a high valuation just to get you to sign a listing agreement. They know that once it’s listed, they can work the price down over time. Some will also push you to accept lower offers because they want their commission quickly.
When you sell your own aircraft, you’re in control. You’re not under pressure to accept a low offer just to get a deal done.
You Can Be More Honest
Buyers can usually spot when someone is trying too hard to sell them something. When you sell your own aircraft, you can be straightforward about why you’re selling and what condition it’s in. This actually builds trust with serious buyers.
For example, if you’re selling because you’ve lost interest, don’t have enough time, or want to move on to something else, you can say so honestly. Most buyers respect that.
How to Sell Your Own Aircraft Effectively
Even though you’re the best person to sell it, you still need a proper process. Here’s what works:
- Be honest about the condition and why you’re selling
- Have all your maintenance records and runouts ready
- Research what similar aircraft are actually selling for (not just asking prices)
- Show a clear asking price (avoid POA if possible)
- Be prepared to answer questions and arrange inspections professionally
You don’t need to be a professional salesperson. You just need to be organised, honest, and realistic with your price.
Bottom Line
Unless your aircraft is extremely high-value or you simply don’t have the time, you are usually better off selling your own aircraft. You know it better, you can be more honest, and you keep full control of the sale.
Many owners make the mistake of handing it over to a broker too quickly, only to end up frustrated with how long it takes and how low the final offers are.