Waco Aircraft
16 used Waco aircraft listings · $128,000–$590,000 · last refreshed 1 hour ago
About Waco Aircraft Company
WACO Aircraft Company (originally Weaver Aircraft Company of Ohio) was one of America's most prolific biplane manufacturers during the golden age of aviation in the 1920s and 1930s. Classic WACO biplanes — including the UPF-7 trainer, YMF-5 cabin model, and various Custom Cabin models — are among the most prized antique aircraft on the market. The WACO brand was revived in the 1980s with production of new-build YMF-5 Super biplanes.
Antique WACO biplanes in restored condition typically sell for $80,000-250,000 depending on model and restoration quality. New-production WACO YMF-5D models (Jacobs R-755 radial, 275 hp) are priced from approximately $350,000. These aircraft offer the quintessential open-cockpit biplane experience with 100-knot cruise speeds. Buyers should engage a pre-purchase inspector experienced with fabric-covered biplanes and radial engines, and budget for higher-than-average maintenance costs.
Waco Aircraft for Sale
Price $128,000–$590,000
Waco Aircraft Price & Cost
How much does a Waco aircraft cost? Current pricing for used Waco aircraft (also known as Waco choppers or Waco helis) is broken down per model in the table below — covering acquisition price, hourly operating cost and overhaul cost.
The cost of a Waco 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.
Waco Models
Waco Models — Specifications
Model specFrequently Asked Questions — Waco
Are new WACO biplanes still being made?
Yes — WACO Aircraft Corporation in Battle Creek, Michigan handcrafts new YMF-5 biplanes. Each aircraft requires over 6,000 labor hours and is highly customizable: land or amphibious floats, classic gauges or IFR glass cockpit, and personal interior choices. There are over 150 YMF-5 owners worldwide. The YMF-5 is approved for night flight and basic aerobatics, making it far more than a fair-weather toy.
How does the WACO YMF-5 fly?
The YMF-5 is powered by a Jacobs radial engine, providing the authentic sound and feel of 1930s open-cockpit flying with modern reliability. At 2,950 lbs gross weight with a 30-foot wingspan, it is substantially larger than a Stearman or Great Lakes biplane. Handling rewards good stick-and-rudder technique, especially for tailwheel operations. Forward visibility is limited, requiring S-turns during taxi — standard biplane procedure.
Is a WACO YMF-5 a good investment?
New WACOs start well above $300,000, making them premium collectibles. The handcrafted nature and limited production (a few dozen per year) supports value retention. Used YMF-5s hold value well compared to mass-produced aircraft. For commercial operators, the three-place configuration (spacious front bench seat) makes the YMF-5 popular for scenic biplane rides. It is one of the few new-production biplanes available today.
Waco Inventory by Country
| United States | 20 |
| Australia | 1 |
| Canada | 1 |
| United Kingdom | 1 |