How to Transfer Aircraft Title in Arizona

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

How to Transfer Aircraft Title in Arizona

Arizona's clear skies and year-round flying weather make it one of the most active general aviation states in the country. From Scottsdale's busy GA scene to the legendary Cactus Fly-In in Casa Grande, aircraft change hands frequently here. This guide covers everything you need to know about transferring aircraft title in Arizona.

No State Registration Required

Arizona does not have a separate state aircraft registration process. All aircraft title transfers are handled exclusively through the FAA Civil Aviation Registry. However, Arizona does assess an aircraft personal property tax — something buyers should factor into total ownership cost.

What You'll Need

  • FAA Form 8050-2 (Bill of Sale)
  • FAA Form 8050-1 (Aircraft Registration Application)
  • $5 FAA registration fee
  • Lien release if the aircraft carries financing
  • Current airworthiness certificate (should transfer with the aircraft)

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Title search. Search registry.faa.gov for liens and ownership history. Arizona aircraft — especially those based at busy fields like Scottsdale (KSDL) or Deer Valley (KDVT) — can have complex ownership histories.

Step 2: Pre-purchase inspection. Arizona's dry desert climate is generally good for airframes but can cause rubber and seal degradation. Have an A&P check hoses, seals, and any composite components carefully.

Step 3: Complete the Bill of Sale. Seller completes FAA Form 8050-2 with full aircraft details and buyer's legal name.

Step 4: Submit registration. Buyer mails Form 8050-1, Bill of Sale, and $5 fee to the FAA Registry in Oklahoma City.

Step 5: Carry the pink copy as temporary registration until the certificate arrives.

Arizona Property Tax on Aircraft

Arizona assesses personal property tax on aircraft based on the aircraft's value. The county assessor's office handles this. New owners should notify their county assessor after completing the FAA transfer to ensure proper tax assessment.

How Much Does It Cost?

FAA fee: $5. Traditional providers: $150–400. Aeradex: $99 or free with Pro.

Arizona Aviation at a Glance

Arizona has over 80 public airports. Phoenix Sky Harbor (KPHX) dominates commercial traffic, but the GA community thrives at Scottsdale (KSDL), Deer Valley (KDVT), Chandler Municipal (KCHD), and dozens of desert strips. The Cactus Fly-In at Casa Grande draws thousands of aircraft annually.

Transfer Your Aircraft Title with Aeradex

Aeradex auto-fills your FAA forms from the registry, manages e-signatures for both parties, and delivers completed documents instantly. Start your title transfer →