Jan 2019
Our client gives an insightful analysis on the process of buying a plane for the first time. This article comes from the December 2018 edition of the Cessna Flyer magazine.
For many pilots, aircraft ownership starts as a distant dream. For Steve Bloom, that dream became reality when he purchased a 1999 Cessna 182S shortly after earning his private pilot certificate. His experience offers a useful aircraft purchase overview for first-time buyers who want to understand what goes into finding the right airplane.
Choosing an Aircraft That Fits the Mission
Bloom's interest in aviation stretched back to childhood, but it took years before he pursued his pilot certificate. Once he began training, limited access to rental aircraft and instructors helped convince him that ownership would give him more control over his flying.
He initially considered a Cessna 172 and later looked at the Cessna 177B. However, useful-load limitations made both less suitable for the family travel he envisioned. Advice from his CFI and other aviation mentors eventually led him to the Cessna 182 Skylane, which offered the capacity and performance that matched his mission.
Understanding How To Buy an Airplane
Finding the right model was only part of the challenge. Like many first-time buyers researching how to buy an airplane, Bloom had questions about making an offer, arranging a pre-buy inspection, securing insurance, and obtaining financing.
Rather than navigating those unfamiliar steps alone, Bloom worked with an established aircraft dealer. The dealer located an unadvertised 1999 Cessna 182S with a low-time factory-remanufactured engine and upgraded Garmin avionics. Before closing, the aircraft underwent a thorough pre-buy inspection.
Financing the Purchase
Financing played an important role in Bloom's aircraft purchase overview. The dealer helped him arrange financing through Dorr Aviation Credit Corporation, which Bloom spoke highly of when describing his experience. After reviewing the aircraft records and finalizing the financing, Bloom authorized the transfer of funds and officially became an aircraft owner.
His story shows why preparation matters when buying a plane. Selecting an aircraft around your actual mission can help you approach ownership with greater confidence.
Turning a Dream Into Ownership
Bloom's Cessna 182 ultimately delivered what he wanted from aircraft ownership. It gave him an airplane suited to family travel while allowing him to enjoy flying on his own schedule.
For prospective owners, his experience demonstrates the value of defining your mission before searching and relying on experienced aviation professionals when the purchasing process moves beyond your expertise. Working with a trusted aviation financing partner, such as Dorr Aviation Credit Corporation, can further simplify each step of the process.