How to Transfer Aircraft Title in Alabama

Complete guide to transferring aircraft title in Alabama. Learn FAA requirements, costs, and how Aeradex makes the process simple for $99.

How to Transfer Aircraft Title in Alabama

Transferring aircraft ownership in Alabama follows the same federal FAA process used across the United States, but knowing the steps in advance saves time, money, and headaches. Whether you're buying a Cessna at Huntsville International or selling a Cherokee out of Auburn University Regional, this guide walks you through everything.

The FAA Governs Aircraft Title Transfers

Unlike cars, aircraft titles are not handled at the state level. The FAA Civil Aviation Registry in Oklahoma City is the single authority for all U.S.-registered aircraft. Alabama has no separate state registration requirement for aircraft ownership transfers.

What You'll Need

To complete a title transfer in Alabama, you'll need:

  • FAA Form 8050-2 (Bill of Sale) — signed by the seller, transferring ownership to the buyer
  • FAA Form 8050-1 (Aircraft Registration Application) — completed by the buyer and submitted with a $5 fee
  • Current registration certificate from the seller
  • Lien release if the aircraft has any outstanding financing

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Conduct a title search. Before any money changes hands, search the FAA registry at registry.faa.gov to confirm the seller has clear title and there are no liens or encumbrances on the aircraft.

Step 2: Complete the Bill of Sale. The seller fills out FAA Form 8050-2 with the aircraft N-number, make, model, serial number, and the buyer's full legal name. Both parties sign.

Step 3: Submit the Registration Application. The buyer completes FAA Form 8050-1 and mails it along with the Bill of Sale and $5 fee to the FAA Registry in Oklahoma City.

Step 4: Carry a pink copy. The FAA provides a pink copy of Form 8050-1 that serves as temporary proof of registration while the permanent certificate is processed. Keep this in the aircraft.

Step 5: Receive your certificate. The FAA typically processes registration applications within 4–6 weeks. Your new registration certificate arrives by mail.

How Much Does It Cost?

The FAA charges a $5 registration fee. Title search services and legal assistance vary widely — traditional providers like AOPA charge $150–400 for the full process. Aeradex handles the complete transfer for $99, or free with an annual Pro subscription.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Signing the Bill of Sale before confirming there are no liens
  • Forgetting to carry the pink copy in the aircraft during the transition period
  • Using the wrong legal name (must match exactly how it will appear on the registration)
  • Not completing a pre-purchase inspection before signing anything

Alabama Aviation at a Glance

Alabama has a rich aviation history anchored by the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville and Redstone Arsenal. The state has over 100 public-use airports including Huntsville International (KHSV), Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International (KBHM), and Montgomery Regional (KMGM). The GA community is active, with strong flying club networks across the state.

Transfer Your Aircraft Title with Aeradex

Aeradex auto-populates your FAA forms directly from the registry, walks both parties through e-signature, and delivers completed documents to both buyer and seller. The entire process takes under 15 minutes. Start your title transfer →