Vans RV-10 Beginner's Guide

Why the Vans RV-10: Family Flying with Performance

The Vans RV-10 is the most popular experimental 4-seat aircraft. With true family seating, excellent performance, economical engines, and strong builder community support, it combines transportation capability with the freedom and value of experimental aircraft.

True 4-Seat Capability

Unlike many experimental aircraft, RV-10s seat 4 in comfort. Adult-size rear seats, reasonable baggage capacity, and useful loads make family trips feasible. Cabin width and headroom superior to many certified aircraft.

Excellent Performance

Cruise speeds 140-160+ mph with simple Lycoming IO-360 engines. Climb rates strong, useful loads generous. Performance rivals many certified 4-seaters but at fraction of cost. Fuel economy competitive or superior.

Strong Builder Community

Thousands of RV-10s flying worldwide. Exceptional community support, builder groups, online forums, and parts suppliers. Easy to find advice, components, and fellow owners. Strong resale community within builder network.

Experimental Category Freedom

Fewer restrictions than certified aircraft. Builders customize designs, systems, and equipment to preferences. Owner responsibility for airworthiness but unmatched flexibility in modifications and operations.

RV-10 Pricing & Market

Purchase Options

• Partial/Project Aircraft: $40,000-70,000 (unfinished builds)
• Flying Examples: $100,000-130,000 (well-built, complete)
• Pristine Examples: $130,000-150,000+ (professional builds, low hours)

Factors Affecting Price

• Build Quality: Professional builders command premium over amateur work.
• Completion Level: Flying examples far more valuable than project aircraft.
• Engine Time: Lower engine time (0-200 hours) commands significant premium.
• Avionics: Modern glass cockpit adds $20-40K value.
• Interior Quality: Professional paint and upholstery add value.

Financing & Purchase

For a $110,000 completed RV-10:

• Most buyers save cash ($80-130K typical)
• Personal loans from banks/credit unions
• Some builders offer owner financing
• Home equity loans sometimes used for larger amounts

Operating Costs: Economical Family Flying

Annual Fixed Costs

• Insurance: $600-1,200
• Annual Inspection: $400-800
• Tie-down: $100-150/month
• Miscellaneous: $300-500

Total Fixed: $2,900-4,400/year

Variable Per Hour

• Fuel: 8-9 gph at $6/gallon = $48-54/hour
• Maintenance: $20-30/hour
• Engine Reserve: $10-15/hour

Total Variable: $78-99/hour

Total Ownership (150 hours/year)

• Fixed: $3,700
• Variable (150 hours × $88): $13,200
• Depreciation (on $110K over 10 years): $11,000
• Total Annual: $27,900
• Cost Per Hour: $186

Maintenance & Pre-Buy

Pre-buy inspection ($2,000-3,000) essential for experimental aircraft:

• Airframe Quality: Inspect riveted/welded construction for workmanship.
• Engine/Systems: Document complete maintenance and modification history.
• Fabric/Paint: Check overall condition and weathering.
• Airworthiness Cert: Verify experimental airworthiness certificate status.

Insurance & Pilot Requirements

Hull insurance: $600-1,200/year. Liability: $1M/$1M standard ($400-600).

Pilot Requirements:

• Private Pilot License minimum
• Complex aircraft endorsement recommended
• Transition training advisable
• Owner-pilot responsibility for airworthiness

Next Steps: RV-10 Ownership

1. Save $80-130K for aircraft purchase
2. Join RV builder community and owner groups
3. Research financing options
4. Shop for quality flying RV-10 examples
5. Get pre-buy inspection from experienced A&P
6. Complete purchase and join flying community