Question 1

Military Aircraft for Sale

Accepted Answer

Dedicated to the conservation and preservation of rare, vintage collector’s item military aircraft, AvPay has made provision for sellers and buyers of memorable aviation legend airplanes such as the Dornier D027A Four Piston, North American Navion Airplane, Pilatus PC9, Sopwith Triplane, Messerschmitt Me108 and North American Harvard IIB. These warbirds, initially built for military use, are now privately owned, operated and normally meticulously maintained by civilians or (mostly) charitable organizations. Demilitarized aircraft are put up for sale and can be bought by any member of the general public. Feel like taking the “Highway to the Danger Zone” and “Ride into the Danger Zone” in a vintage fighter jet? For anything between around US$45,000 to $400,000 you can rev up that engine and head into the twilight zone in a decommissioned military fighter jet. Fun Fact: a Fully functional 1980 model F16A/B Fighting Falcon based in Palm Beach Florida, USA was made available for sale in 2019 at the astonishing asking price of US$8.5 million.

Question 2

The Beginnings of the Military Aircraft

Accepted Answer

Before World War I, airships were used rather than airplanes. An airship was a large aircraft that built from a stiff airframe that was covered in fabric in which gas bags contained lighter-than-air gas, most popularly hydrogen. A good example of these airships is the Zeppelin, designed and built by Ferdinand, Count von Zeppelin in Germany.

It was the bothers Orville and Wilbur Write who designed and built the first heavier than air powered aircraft that could sustain flight and that could be controlled. This aircraft took its first flight on the 17th of December 1903. They were convinced that this type of aircraft would be extremely useful for military reconnaissance. They received their first contract from the US Government in February 1908 for an aircraft that had a two-seating capacity, capable of flight of at least 40 mph (65 km/h) and a minimum range of 125 miles (200km). The Orville brothers delivered “Airplane No.1, Heavier-than-air Division, United States aerial fleet” in June of 1909.

During the first World War, aircraft were constructed out of wood in a bi-plane design. Aircraft flown during World War II benefitted from the advancements in technology and engineering, becoming more aerodynamic, powerful and made from more robust materials such as aluminium.

Question 3

Can you buy old Military Aircraft?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. Bear in mind that these retired military aircraft still require maintenance, hangarage, fuel and the pilot must be licenced in order to operate the aircraft, owning one of these classic vintage heritage aircraft might not come cheap in the long run.

As technology evolves and designs improve, older generation aircraft are phased out and replaced by the new kids on the block. Retired military aircraft are made available for sale to the civilian public, rendering it relatively easy to obtain an old trainer or even a fighter jet! Some of the scarcer vintage military aircraft do not come to market often, but when it does, it most certainly comes a price!

There are very few twin-propeller vintage variant aircraft available for sale on the open market today. During our research we could only find four, namely the Caudron G4, North American XP-82 Twin, Beechcraft 18CH45H and a North American OV-10 Bronco.

This said, there is an abundance of fighter jets that we came across. The most popular being the Vodochody L39/Albatross and its later sister ship the Vodochody L59 Super Albatross, closely followed by the Hawker Hunter, Northrop F5A, BAE Hawk T1 and last, but not least the McDonnell Douglas TA4J Skyhawk.

Question 4

What are the best Vintage Military Aircraft you can buy?

Accepted Answer

Of course, this will be subject to personal preference, after all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder! However, some of the most popular vintage military aircraft on the market include:

North American T28
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG 21
Yakolev Yak 9-UM
Hawker Sea Fury
Aero Vodochody L-39 Albatross
McDonnell Douglas Skyhawk
Bunker Jungman BU-131
Chance Vought F4U
Supermarine Spitfire
Pilatus P3

Question 5

How to maintain a Vintage Military Aircraft?

Accepted Answer

By acquiring the services of a specialist vintage / historic mechanic, you can save yourself a whole heap of trouble. These specialists know exactly where to obtain the parts required to keep your beloved aircraft in the air.

Many of the companies that produced aircraft from World War II do not exists anymore. Even though an aircraft no longer has the support of a manufacturer (or replacement support), some organizations still exist with the capability of performing the required overhauls, etc. and your aircraft will in all probability be operated as an experimental category aircraft.

Rolls Royce does not allow permission to any other manufacturer to produce aircraft parts for aircraft dating back to World War II, also because of fear of liability issues. There are still parts supplies by certain dealers, essentially meaning that the old Spitfires and Mustangs that require Merlin engine parts, retrieve these parts that were manufactured and housed back in the late 1930’s to mid-1940’s!

Maintenance always includes scheduled checks, pre-lights check, propeller checks and the like.

Question 6

What is the oldest Military Plane still in service?

Accepted Answer

Military planes still in service date back to the 1940’s. Here are the top 5 oldest serving military aircraft:

1. De Havilland Canada U-6A Beaver (1947)
This aircraft is used by U.S. Navy test pilots to tow the X-26 Frigate sail plane for test school trainees.

2. Antonov AN-2 Colt (1947)
The adaptability of the Antonov allowed the aircraft to be used for a wide variety of operations, including research, bombing raids and transportation.

3. Topolev Tu-95 (1954)
Designed as a strategic, intercontinental heavy-payload bomber jet, the Tu-95 entered service in 1956 and up until the end of the Cold War, it carried out long-range patrols around US and NATO airspace. However, after a 15 year absence, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the Tu-95 would be re-used for long-range patrols in August 2007.

4. Lockheed C-130 Hercules (1954)
The Hercules is the primary tactical aircraft used by the RAF, specialising in operations to locations where aircraft are at risk.

5. Fokker F27 Friendship (1955)
The Friendship is a short-to-medium rage aircraft and one of the most successful European airplanes ever built!

Question 7

Can you buy Military Aircraft direct form the Military?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When the military or air force find that an aircraft is no longer needed, they have a decision to make. Should they scrap it (i.e., send it to be recycled into various different items) or to sell it. When selling it’s aircraft, the military will consider selling to another country who can still use the aircraft in military operations and training, or the aircraft can be made available to the public.

Question 8

How much do Vintage Military Airplanes cost?

Accepted Answer

To purchase a vintage military airplane, you will be spending in the region of £30,000 to £400,00. Of course, this is only the price to purchase the airplane. When considering buying a vintage military airplane, you must factor in the cost of restoration, maintenance (including annual inspections), insurance, operating costs (such as fuel, oil, tyres, landing costs etc) and hangarage.

Question 9

Can you buy Fighter jets?

Accepted Answer

It may surprise you but yes, fighter jets are available for the public to buy. There are, of course, provisions that must be met in order to obtain such an aircraft.

The aircraft must be ‘demilitarised’ before they can be sold. This means that any parts that could be used for a military action (e.g., weapons, radar system and classified instruments) taken away.

Depending on which country you reside, you may be required to apply for a ‘Permit-to-Fly’ ex-military aircraft, such as a CAP 632 in the United Kingdom. It must be noted that the aircraft must prove airworthiness (and maintained) before acceptance and if you plan to fly it over other countries, prior permission will be needed. You will also need a pilot’s licence and type rating, along with the required flight hours to fly the aircraft.

You also need the cash to purchase the aircraft as well as keeping it airworthy and operating it – the cheapest being around £600 an hour to operate! To purchase, the majority of demilitarised fighter jets cost in the region of $50,000 USD to $450,000 USD. However, there are military jets that far exceed this price. For example, a McDonnell Douglas TA4J could cost between £2,500,000 and £4,000,000. In 2019, A F-16 Fighting Falcon was put up for sale for $8,500, 000 and in early 2022, a 1943 Spitfire LF Mk.IXB was listed for auction at £4,500,000.

So, if purchasing a fighter jet is a dream waiting to come true, there is lots to consider before making it a reality!

Question 10

What types of World War One Aircraft can you buy today?

Accepted Answer

Finding and purchasing First World War aircraft today is significantly more challenging than acquiring Second World War aircraft due to their rarity and historical significance. Nevertheless, there are a few options available for enthusiasts and collectors. First World War aircraft encompassed a range of designs, including biplanes and early monoplanes. Notable examples include the Sopwith Camel, Fokker Dr.I Triplane, Nieuport 17, and the Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5. First World War aircraft are extremely rare, and finding one for sale can be quite difficult. Additionally, many surviving examples are displayed in museums rather than being available for purchase. The few aircraft that are privately owned are often considered priceless and may not be on the market. However, in some cases, replicas or reproduction aircraft are available for purchase. The cost of a replica or reproduction can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the level of authenticity and craftsmanship. First World War aircraft present unique challenges due to their design and technology. They have primitive control systems, minimal instrumentation, and are typically underpowered compared to modern aircraft. Flying these aircraft requires specialized training and experience, particularly in the areas of stick-and-rudder skills and understanding the nuances of early aviation. Pilots need to be familiar with techniques such as managing adverse yaw and controlling the aircraft's inherent instability. Given the unique characteristics of First World War aircraft, specialized training is crucial. Pilots should have significant experience in tailwheel aircraft and ideally receive instruction from experienced instructors who are knowledgeable about vintage aviation. This may involve seeking out specific training programs or organizations that offer instruction on early aircraft types. Maintaining First World War aircraft can be a considerable challenge due to the scarcity of original parts and the need for historical accuracy. Owners of these aircraft often rely on a network of skilled craftsmen and specialized suppliers who can manufacture or source authentic components. Maintenance costs can be high, and finding qualified mechanics who are familiar with early aircraft systems can be difficult. It is important to note that regulations and restrictions may vary by country, and there may be additional legal and logistical considerations when it comes to owning and operating historic aircraft. Overall, acquiring and operating a First World War aircraft requires a significant commitment of resources, expertise, and dedication to preserving aviation history.

Question 11

What types of Second World War Aircraft can you buy today?

Accepted Answer

While it is possible to find and purchase aircraft from the Second World War era today, there are several factors to consider. Please note that the availability, cost, and regulations surrounding these aircraft can vary significantly depending on your location and the specific aircraft in question. There were various types of aircraft used during World War II, including fighters, bombers, trainers, and transport planes. Some popular examples include the Supermarine Spitfire, North American P-51 Mustang, Messerschmitt Bf 109, and the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. The cost of purchasing a Second World War aircraft can vary widely depending on factors such as the rarity, condition, and operational status of the aircraft. Restored and airworthy aircraft tend to be more expensive. Prices can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars. Second World War aircraft can be challenging to fly compared to modern aircraft. They often have different handling characteristics, manual controls, and limited avionics. Additionally, some of these aircraft have powerful engines and can be demanding to handle. Proper training and experience are essential. Pilots interested in flying these vintage aircraft typically require specialized training and experience with tailwheel and high-performance aircraft. The level of training required will depend on your previous flying experience and the specific aircraft you intend to fly. Generally, it is recommended to have a significant amount of flight hours and experience with similar aircraft before transitioning to World War II-era planes. Pilots may need to complete type-specific training programs and obtain a type rating to ensure they can safely operate these historic aircraft. Maintaining Second World War aircraft can be a complex and costly endeavour. These planes often have unique parts and systems that may be challenging to source and maintain. It is crucial to have access to experienced mechanics who are knowledgeable about vintage aircraft. The cost of maintenance can vary depending on the aircraft's condition, rarity, and the availability of spare parts. Before considering the purchase of a Second World War aircraft, it is essential to consult with aviation experts, thoroughly research local regulations, and ensure you have the necessary resources, skills, and budget to responsibly own and operate such historic aircraft.