The latest SherpaReport Aircraft Buying Guide has been published. This updated book provides comprehensive and user-friendly guidance on all aspects of purchasing a private aircraft. The new edition of this one-of-a-kind guide, geared towards individuals and businesses, offers brand new sections as well as updated costs and enhanced information.
The latest edition of the book, increased to 60 pages in length, includes new sections on cabin requirements and customization options, connectivity, and sustainability, which have all become considerations for aircraft owners. It also includes the latest figures relating to the costs of various aircraft (both CAPEX and OPEX, including crew salaries, maintenance, connectivity and more) and updated and enhanced information on legal, tax and insurance considerations.
“For discriminating families and corporations, private aviation has become an increasingly popular alternative to commercial flying. The demand has pushed up prices, reduced the supply of good second-hand aircraft and increased the wait times for buying a new aircraft,” explains Nick Copley, President of SherpaReport and co-author of the book. “It was clear to us at SherpaReport, that people needed a wide-ranging guide to help with aircraft acquisitions whether buying a larger turboprop, a jet or a piston aircraft.”
The publication offers a side-by-side comparison of about 150 types of business aircraft and their specifications, as well as examples of current operating costs for over 25 models. “We also go through the reasons to own and not to own; include a trip cost calculator and a detailed needs assessment and analysis; the makeup of the ideal advisory and management teams; maintenance considerations; inspection tips; financing options; and more,” adds Paul LaFata, President of AirPower, a veteran with more than 40 years in the business, and co-author of the guide.
The book also helps potential buyers and their teams decide whether full ownership is the best option for them or whether there are alternatives that are better suited to their needs, such as fractional ownership, jet cards and memberships, charters, or a combination of several of those options. Copley explains, “We want our readers to be able to have intelligent conversations about all aspects of ownership with their brokers, advisors, and teams, so they can make smart decisions for themselves or their employers.”
The Aircraft Buying Guide is available to all SherpaReport members to download. Membership to SherpaReport provides access to numerous guides, jet card and fractional program comparisons, spreadsheets, and insights for all levels of knowledge, as well as individualized advice for any member.