Glasair Aircraft
4 used Glasair aircraft listings · $129,000–$220,000 · last refreshed 1 hour ago
About Glasair Aircraft Company
Glasair Aviation, based in Arlington, Washington, produces high-performance composite kit aircraft including the Glasair III, Glasair Sportsman, and GlaStar. The Glasair III, a retractable-gear speedster, can cruise above 250 knots on a Lycoming IO-540 engine. The Sportsman 2+2 is a versatile four-seat STOL aircraft compatible with wheels, floats, and skis, popular among backcountry and bush pilots.
Pre-owned Glasair aircraft range from $40,000 for early GlaStar builds to $250,000 for completed Glasair III examples. The Sportsman typically trades for $100,000-180,000. As Experimental-Amateur Built aircraft, build quality varies significantly. Buyers should carefully review builder logs, condition inspection history, and ensure all systems meet Experimental standards.
Glasair Aircraft for Sale
Price $129,000–$220,000
Glasair Aircraft Price & Cost
How much does a Glasair aircraft cost? Current pricing for used Glasair aircraft (also known as Glasair choppers or Glasair helis) is broken down per model in the table below — covering acquisition price, hourly operating cost and overhaul cost.
The cost of a Glasair aircraft depends on model, year, hours flown, avionics and condition. See operating costs and pre-buy checklist in the About section, or open a specific model page for a detailed price guide.
Glasair Models
Glasair Models — Specifications
Model specFrequently Asked Questions — Glasair
Is the Glasair Sportsman a good kit aircraft for first-time builders?
The Glasair Sportsman offers first-class kit components with clear instructions, and the active Glasair Aircraft Owners Association forum provides daily problem-solving support. However, build times are realistic at 1–2 years for most builders. The former Two Weeks to Taxi builder-assist program (paused during COVID) significantly shortened builds but left some owners finishing paint and details for months afterward. Budget time and money beyond the kit price.
How does the Glasair Sportsman compare to a Van's RV-10 or Cessna 182?
The Sportsman targets the utility four-seater niche — think bush plane with good cruise. It offers tricycle or tailwheel gear, tundra tires, and floats. The RV-10 is faster and more refined but less rugged for off-airport work. A used Cessna 182 requires no build time but costs more for comparable capability. The Sportsman's composite construction provides corrosion resistance and smooth finish. Overall accident rates are lower than some competing kit designs.
What should I check when buying a completed Glasair Sportsman?
Builder quality varies significantly in any kit aircraft. Verify who built it and whether they used the factory builder-assist program. Check paint quality — it was a known weakness on early builder-assist aircraft. Inspect composite layup quality, especially around wing roots and control surface attachments. Review the builder's log for completeness. A pre-buy by an A&P familiar with composite kit aircraft is essential.
Glasair Inventory by Country
| United States | 14 |
| Canada | 2 |
| Austria | 2 |
| Germany | 1 |
| France | 1 |
| United Kingdom | 1 |
Recently Sold Glasair
| 2003 SII FT | $149,000 |