Aviation is a fairly unique hobby. Not everyone finds something appealing about streaking through the air at hundreds of miles per hour, thousands of feet above the ground. Still, there is something to be said about the freedom that can be found in the solitude that rests above the clouds. If you have a passion for piloting aircraft, you know that having a plane of your own is the best way to thoroughly enjoy your skyward privileges. It is worth stating, though, that owning a plane comes with a high degree of responsibility. For example, you must keep your plane clean and well-maintained, perform routine safety inspections, and make sure your bird is in sound shape before taking off. You will also have some paperwork obligations to stay on top of with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Most importantly, when you buy an aircraft, you must complete an airplane registration in a prompt manner.
Make no mistake about it–buying an aircraft is no minor purchase. Outside of buying a house or perhaps a very large boat, it will likely be one of the biggest investments you ever make. Of course, can you really put a price on the exhilarating feeling that only comes with a solo cruise in the cockpit? Before you buy the plane of your dreams, you should first identify just what it is. You will want to do a decent amount of due diligence on the various types of makes and models of aircraft. Once you have located a seller and bargained down to a fair price, you are one step closer to taking off. Before you get your engines going, though, you are going to want to ensure that your FAA paperwork is in good standing. Fortunately, at the National Aviation Center, we can help you get the documents you need online.
Do You Need an Airplane Registration?
All planes owned and operated in the United States must be registered with the FAA. Registering your aircraft is also how you can obtain your N-number, which is often referred to as a tail number. To register your plane, you will want to complete what is called a Form AC 8050-1 – Aircraft Registration Application. This FAA form will ask for your name, address, and signature. You will also need to note your plane’s make, model, and serial number. Once registered, you will have a period of three years until it is time to submit a renewal.
When it is time to renew your aircraft registration, the FAA will let you know. More precisely, they will send you reminder notices both six months and eight weeks out from your registration’s expiration date. This reminder will include a special alphanumeric code that you will need to enter on your renewal application.
Use Our Online Forms Today
At the National Aviation Center, we have easy-to-fill web forms for all of your FAA paperwork needs. Take a look around our site and discover for yourself just how easy it can be to get your documentation over the web.