If you intend to purchase a helicopter, the net has become a great source of information and contacts. Many manufacturers have websites describing their helicopter models in detail, and sometimes rare bargains can be found when helicopters can be bought at government or police auctions.
New helicopters range between around $200,000 for a small chopper with two seats, to a more substantial, multi-passenger model for $400,000 and more. Used helicopters on the market vary in dimensions, price and year. It depends on whether you are buying domestic or work helicopter or if you need a used military helicopter. If you discover purchasing a new helicopter is really a bit beyond your financial allowance, you may consider leasing one, or trying to find an auctioned one. Some benefits of leasing are: enjoying benefits of ownership without a huge expenditure. However, leasing incurs significant running and insurance costs, and the helicopter technically doesn't belong to you. hoodsite
Some of the very most widespread and popular helicopters are the Robinson R22 and R44 series, or Bell and Hughes helicopters for those with a more substantial budget. Helicopter auctions often also feature used military and police helicopters like the Bell UH-1. More generally, light civil helicopters could be divided into three categories:
Light piston-engined types - if you want a cheap personal helicopter for 2, the Schweizer 300 or the Robinson R22 would be your choice. They are able to fly at about 80-110 mph. With a small seating capacity and small size, these helicopters are light, an easy task to fly, and an easy task to maneuver. Surprisingly, the light piston-engined helicopters use a more expensive fuel than that of the kerosine based turbine engines nevertheless they consume less fuel. However, the Schweizer 300 or the Robinson R22 are less interesting for for charter and corporate use. They are popular, however, for training and personal use.
Light turbine helicopters - McDonnell Douglas 500E, Eurocopter Squirrel and the (Agusta-) Bell Jet Ranger are widely used around the globe due to their practicality, comfort, size, speed, and versatility. Their look is sporty and their performance is decent, however they are usually substantially more expensive than their piston-engined relatives.
Twin-engined helicopters - Stronger, safer, faster and more versatile helicopters include famous brands the Dauphin, Sikorsky S-76, Agusta 109, and Eurocopter Twin Squirrel. They are powered by 2 engines and have flight capabilities above those of single-engine helis. They are the preferred choice for the high-end market with a higher price bracket.
Helicopters from many of these categories can be found at auctions. Helicopter (and general aircraft) auctions are typically held by the federal government (federal or state), law enforcement, IRS, or sometimes also banks who seize helicopters as collateral. An auction can be a great chance to truly save a bundle while getting a quality helicopter. However, there are several tricky issues and pitfalls for them as well, which one should give consideration to.
- when purchasing a helicopter at an auction, begin by observing. Attend the preview (usually held a while ahead of the auction, and ready to accept the typical public). Stay cool through the auction, and decide what you want to bid beforehand. Never enter into a bidding war, it's a surefire way to buyer's remorse.
- do not be too hasty. Taking a look at some auctioned helicopters, you might get the impression of a once-in-a-lifetime bargain, however in fact the market is pretty large and great opportunities are about all of the time. It is most beneficial to observe several auctions first to acquire a feel of the procedure, and only actively start bidding when you have recommended of the market.
- avoid any too-good-to-be-true claims. At an auction, chances are they are exactly that - not true. Liability for a seller at a public auction is relatively low, and two powerful words - "AS IS" - basically free owner of any responsibility. It's your decision to pinpoint them on essential statements and keep clear of any outrageous promises.
- in case you win the bid, insist on a published contract, and ask that most important figures and claims are mentioned (e.g. about prior owners or repairs, engine hours, or the timespan until you get the plane). Don't forget that the price you'll pay is generally higher than the winning bid. Most auctions add a 5-10% buyer's premium.
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