Produced between 2009 and 2013, some 275 Skycatchers were built, and 171 examples remain on the FAA registry today. Designed as a lightweight, sporty evolution of Cessna’s past two-seat offerings, the 162 has a distinctly different feel.

In addition to generally lacking the tired, worn-out appearance of so many legacy models, the design itself is a breath of fresh air. The cabin is significantly wider and roomier than old 150s and 152s, with larger windows and doors. A technical bedliner-like material protects the cabin floor and walls, with a look and feel far nicer than the cracked plastics and faded carpet of yesteryear.

The sportiness extends to the flight controls in the form of dual “stokes” – combination sticks and yokes. Attached to the underside of the panel, these cleverly provide the feel of a stick without taking up valuable floor space. This provides larger pilots and pilots with limited mobility with easier cabin access compared to traditional side-by-side stick arrangements.

The panel is correspondingly modern. Rather than gyros, vacuum systems, and clunky radios dating back to the Nixon administration, the Skycatcher features modern Garmin avionics and a clean, intuitive panel layout. The right side of the panel tapers downward to provide more forward visibility to the passenger.

This particular Skycatcher comes with a new exhaust, ADS-B out, and new tires. It has only 1,352 hours on the airframe since new, with the same number of hours on the engine. With a 2000-hour TBO, the engine will likely provide years of reliable service before requiring an overhaul. Learn more about Skycatcher ownership here.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance and quickly calculate your monthly payment using the airplane finance calculator. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com. 

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Since its introduction in 1958, it has been a main staple of the flight training fleet, and nearly 24,000 examples were built until it was discontinued in 1977. Accordingly, parts availability and easily sourced maintenance expertise are virtually unmatched in the general aviation fleet. To owners of less common types, these benefits are not insignificant.

Among the various 150 subtypes produced over the years, this late-model example is visually defined by its modern-looking swept vertical stabilizer and large rear windows. This compares to earlier models that had large, straight vertical stabilizers and a “fastback” design that provided no rearward visibility. Early 150s also offered less volume in the storage area behind the two seats.

While relatively modern touches abound here, most of the features for which 150s are known and loved remain. Massive Fowler-style flaps with a maximum setting of 40 degrees enable short, steep approaches, the flight controls are fingertip-light and precise, and the published 122 MPH cruising speed comes at the cost of less than 6 gallons per hour.

This particular 150 has 5,860 hours on the airframe and 964 hours on the engine since major overhaul. The modern paint job is said to be in good condition and is sharper than much of the 150 fleet. The included wheel pants offer a few additional knots of cruise speed along with good looks.

The seller has not hesitated to invest in the maintenance of this 150. A new exhaust, flap motor, tires, and battery have been installed, and both the magnetos and carburetor have been overhauled. It includes complete logs, and has been owned by the same family for the past 33 years.

Inside, the interior has also been well maintained. The plastic interior trim is in decent shape, and the seats have a nice, retro look that is well-matched to the exterior paint. While it lacks some of the more advanced avionics available today, the panel is clean and intact – far nicer than the sloppy, crudely modified panels found in many 150s.

For an economical, easy-to-own airplane that works well as a trainer or as a fun escape to fly-ins and $100 hamburgers, this 150 will likely provide its next caretaker with many years of great flying.

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1946 Erco 415-C Ercoupe

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance and quickly calculate your monthly payment using the airplane finance calculator. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com. 

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First flown in 1961, the French SOCATA Rallye family has since been marketed under a number of different companies and names. From Morane-Saulnier to PZL to Waco, the same basic aircraft has had a bit of an identity crisis over the decades, but the general formula has remained the same – an all metal, tricycle-gear, 2-4 seat low wing airplane with nearly unrestricted visibility and fantastic slow flight and short field capability.

While early versions had only two seats with lower-powered engines of 100-150 horsepower, this particular Rallye is equipped with a 220-horsepower Franklin six-cylinder engine that has only 36 hours since major overhaul. Provided the Franklin is maintained only by experienced mechanics familiar with the type’s unique intricacies, it provides ample, smooth power and excellent climb performance.

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1965 American Champion Citabria

Various Rallyes are equipped with control yokes and others with sticks. This example has the latter, which opens up valuable real estate on the panel. It features basic analog flight instruments with an updated Garmin GPS and transponder. 

Like all Rallyes, this one is also equipped with aerodynamically actuated slats that enable stable, predictable handling at low speeds and enable comfortable operation from short strips. Trailing-link main gear provides a plush ride over rough strips, and a 60-gallon fuel capacity provides range as well as the option to tanker fuel into remote areas with few refueling options.

For a unique yet proven airplane that provides open-cockpit levels of visibility and unlocks access to short, remote strips, this Rallye checks quite a few boxes on the “nice to have” list.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance and quickly calculate your monthly payment using the airplane finance calculator. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com. 

The post Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1972 SOCATA MS.894A Rallye appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Among the most popular general aviation types ever built, the Piper Cherokee series is also one of the most straightforward to own and maintain. Parts and maintenance expertise are both easily sourced, even in remote regions. This particular example has been cared for and flown regularly for the past several years, with many flights and adventures having been documented with extensive photography on social media.

Unlike many Cherokees of the era, C-FROU sports an exceptionally clean panel layout. A traditional “six-pack” is positioned in front of the pilot, and the circuit breakers have been neatly organized on the right side of the panel. A solid RAM mount is also neatly installed, positioning a phone or tablet within easy reach, just above the throttle and mixture. The avionics have also been upgraded, with a new Avidyne audio panel, GPS/NAV/COM units, and ADS-B in and out, making for a thoroughly modern stack.

• READ MORE: Plane Facts: Piper PA-28s

In terms of aesthetics, the airplane is classic and basic. Interior and exterior alike sport simple colors that age well, providing a slightly vintage look without being bland or boring. Personalized decals currently in place are easily removed to return back to the pure, original paint scheme.

For a buyer looking for a predictable, easy-to-own, basic airplane, there’s much to like about this Cherokee. 

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1958 Cessna 175 Skylark

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

The post Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1964 Piper PA-28-140 Cherokee Cruiser appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Built between 1958 and 1962, some 2,100 examples of the Skylark were produced. This relatively high number, combined with a great deal of commonality with the popular 172, makes sourcing parts and qualified service straightforward. Additionally, a number of modifications, such as STOL kits and even tailwheel conversions, are compatible with the type.

• READ MORE: Cessna 175 Skylark

The Continental GO-300 engine produces 180 horsepower, and while it does have a slightly lower time before overhaul (TBO) than comparable engines at 1,200 hours, multiple options exist for engine upgrades. Many owners, faced with the prospect of a $35,000+ engine overhaul, opt to source a used, midtime Lycoming O-360 or Continental IO-360 as an alternative. Such a modification would make this aircraft a budget 182 in many ways.

Inside, the panel is exceptionally clean and well laid out. The vacuum system and instruments have been removed and two Garmin G5s have been installed in their place, increasing reliability and reducing weight and complexity. Unlike many aircraft of the era, the radio stack is positioned up high in the pilot’s field of view. A modern transponder with ADS-B out ensures class B and C airspace remains within reach.

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1969 Cessna 172K Skyhawk

As it stands, this Skylark is a lot of airplane for the money. With an engine upgrade, a tailwheel conversion, and tundra tires, the value could easily increase to well over $100,000, making it an attractive canvas for future modifications.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

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Today’s bargain provides nearly unbeatable STOL and off-airport capability for hundreds of thousands of dollars less than comparable airplanes and $20,000 less than the Aircraft for Sale PlanePrice Estimate. Dating back to the mid-1980s, Maule’s M-7 series has proven itself as an aircraft with outstanding performance and load-carrying capability. Perhaps best of all, factory support is readily available when the time comes to source parts or qualified, skilled maintenance.

Built in 2004, this relatively new Maule lacks the concerns associated with older aging types, such as aging fabric and deteriorating wiring, and is likely to provide decades of trouble-free ownership. Always hangared with complete logs and zero damage history, it would be difficult to find an off-airport machine as well cared for as this example. 

• READ MORE: Maules Are All That

With 3,315 total hours on the airframe, 1,395 hours on the 180-horsepower Lycoming O-360 since major overhaul, and a fresh annual inspection, this Maule is said to fly well and need nothing. 72-gallon long-range fuel tanks enable long forays into the backcountry with fewer concerns about sourcing fuel, and ADS-B in and out ensures populated areas and busy airspace remain within reach, as well.

Inside, an expansive interior and ample cargo space welcome both people and cargo, while a panel chock full of new Garmin avionics creates a pleasant and capable workspace for the pilot. The overall condition reflects the fact that the airplane has had only three owners since new, yet it has been flown 75 hours in the past six months, ensuring no issues are lurking from sitting unused for extended periods.

Tailwheel Maules have a reputation of being challenging to handle in crosswinds, and their high insurance rates often reflect this. Fortunately, this Maule’s tricycle landing gear minimizes both concerns.

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 2003 Zenith CH 2000 Alarus

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

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Introduced in 1948, three versions of the Cessna 170 were manufactured. The initial “ragwing,” built in 1948 only, had a fabric-covered wing and was essentially an upsized 140. The 170A, built from 1949 to 1951, incorporated an all-metal wing. All 170s built in 1952 and beyond were B-models and introduced the most significant upgrades, including massive, semi-Fowler flaps that noticeably improved both takeoff and landing distances. The 170B also added dihedral to the wing and a balanced elevator, which provided improved handling qualities. 

• READ MORE: Cessna’s Magnificent Model 170 Turns 75

Among B-models, a few additional improvements arrived in 1953, including improved cabin heat that’s evenly distributed to the front and rear passengers, a modernized panel that can be more straightforward to upgrade, and stiffer landing gear legs. This 1954 model incorporates all of these upgrades, making it among the most desirable 170s available for purchase.

The stock Continental C-145 is a robust, smooth-running six-cylinder engine, and this one is relatively low time, with 508 hours since major overhaul. Although the airframe has just over 4,000 hours, it presents well with well-maintained, glossy paint in a traditional scheme. A set of vortex generators and drooped wingtips round out the small assortment of modifications.

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1952 Cessna 170B

Inside, the headliner, carpet, and upholstery are in good shape and coordinate nicely with the exterior paint. The panel is otherwise fairly original but appears well-kept and should be straightforward to modernize, should the new owner opt to do so. 

Overall, this 170B provides a tailwheel flying experience that is both welcoming and docile to new tailwheel pilots and also capable for those interested in exploring more challenging, off-airport strips. With a flatter-pitch seaplane propeller and low-pressure tundra tires, it will unlock many new destinations, or it can be enjoyed as is for enjoyable trips to airport diners and fly-ins.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

The post Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1954 Cessna 170B appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

First flown in 1975, just two years after the nearly identical-looking Piper Tomahawk, the Skipper was sold between 1979 and 1981, with some unsold examples selling as 1982 models. Like the Tomahawk, the concept was born from an evaluation of what people wanted out of a two-place plane with about 100 horsepower. The overwhelming answer was something less cramped and more comfortable than a 150, so Beechcraft designed the Skipper, outfitting it with a slightly more powerful Lycoming O-235.

For a shopper who values solid mechanicals over fresh paint and the latest avionics, this particular Skipper is just what the doctor ordered. The centerpiece of the airplane is the engine. Freshly overhauled in 2023, it has flown regularly since then and now has 250 hours since major overhaul. 

• READ MORE: BEECHCRAFT BE-77 SKIPPER

While the exterior is far from new, it looks decent with only a few blemishes here and there. Inside, the interior plastics appear to be largely intact with no obvious signs of abuse. This is possibly a result of the relatively low 2,370 hours on the airframe. As an added bonus, the airplane is presented as having no damage history.

What the panel lacks in modernization is makes up for in tidiness, retaining the orderly factory layout and providing plenty of space for easy avionics upgrades. A uAvionix skyBeacon brings the Skipper into ADS-B compliance, and a small throttle quadrant with levers rather than push-pull knobs makes the little airplane feel larger than it is.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

The post Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1979 Beechcraft 77 Skipper appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Pilots interested in a unique taildragger with economical operating costs should consider this 1976 Beechcraft B19 Musketeer Sport, which is available for $64,995 on AircraftForSale.

Unlike earlier model years, the 1976 B19 Musketeer Sport featured here offers two cabin doors, easing cabin access. Like all Musketeers, it is equipped with plush trailing-link main landing gear that smooths out all but the harshest touchdowns and worst runway surfaces. While outwardly similar to a Piper Warrior, it is both larger and taller with ramp presence that becomes evident when the two types are parked side-by-side.

While the 150-horsepower Lycoming O-320 provides relatively modest power, its 2000-hour TBO bests many other engines. With only 1,273 hours since major overhaul, the new owner of this Musketeer can expect many years of use before reaching TBO. Until then, they can enjoy peace of mind knowing that this engine has good compressions and has had oil changes every 25 hours. In addition, oil analysis reports are availableforo review.

• READ MORE: Beechcraft Musketeer Sport II

With 5,246 hours on the airframe, this Musketeer is well-used, but it has also been fastidiously maintained. Always hangared with complete logs (viewable on aircraftforsale.com) and no corrosion, the current owner has replaced the landing gear’s rubber “donuts” that provide shock absorption. They have also upgraded the landing and strobe lights with modern LEDs and are including a 22-pound aft ballast weight the new owner can install to improve the center of gravity during most flight operations.

Inside, the IFR panel is very cleanly arranged with a freshly overhauled GNS430, a Bluetooth audio panel, and a Stratus ESG transponder, providing ADS-B in and out. The airplane has no known damage history and appears to be a bargain, near the very bottom of our PlanePrice Beta pricing analysis.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

The post Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1976 Beechcraft B19 Musketeer Sport appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.

Pilots interested in an economical, fun-to-fly four-place aircraft should consider this 1976 Grumman American AA-5A Cheetah, which is available for $60,000 on AircraftForSale.

The Cheetah is the mid-range model among Grumman’s four-place offerings. Equipped with a 150-horsepower Lycoming O-320, the AA-5A Cheetah was essentially a modified version of the original AA-5 Traveler, adding important upgrades such as a larger horizontal stabilizer that results in a wider center of gravity range and 15 additional gallons of fuel capacity.

• READ MORE: Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1949 Piper PA-16 Clipper

With over 3,000 examples built between 1971 and 2006, the AA-5 family of aircraft is common enough that parts are plentiful and easily sourced. Additionally, the vibrant Grumman Owners and Pilots Association enthusiastically supports new Grumman owners with knowledge, expertise, and regular events. And as we discovered in last summer’s comparison between the AA-5 and the Mooney M-20 series, the Grumman’s fixed landing gear results in insurance premiums that are thousands of dollars less per year than retractable gear alternatives.

Most important, however, is the flying experience. Rather than traditional cables, torque tubes and push/pull rods are used to actuate the ailerons, resulting in quick, precise, fingertip handling. The unique Grumman canopy offers a panoramic view and slides back on rails to provide cabin access from both sides. On warm days, it can be left partially open in flight, and it can be slid fully aft after landing to dump hot cabin air.

This particular example has just over 3,000 hours on the airframe and 1,847 hours on the engine since major overhaul. While this is coming up on the 2,000-hour TBO, prospective buyers should note that the $60,000 asking price is substantially less than the $79,000 average price for the Cheetahs we surveyed last summer, leaving some room in the budget for a fresh engine overhaul. It has always been hangared, and it includes complete logs since new.

You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.

The post Bargain Buys on AircraftForSale: 1976 Grumman American AA-5A Cheetah appeared first on Plane & Pilot Magazine.