Van's RV-9A Aircraft under $200,000

← Van's RV-9 family

The Vans RV-9A is a two-seat, single-engine experimental aircraft from the popular RV series of kit-built airplanes designed by Vans Aircraft. The RV-9A features a nosewheel configuration (the RV-9 is the tailwheel variant) and is designed for efficient cross-country flying with a focus on stability, comfort, and fuel economy rather than pure aerobatic performance.

Burning approximately 6 gallons per hour, the RV-9A is one of the most fuel-efficient cross-country aircraft available, with variable hourly costs averaging just $85 and annual fixed costs near $10,000. Its side-by-side seating, good visibility, and docile handling make it a comfortable touring airplane for pilots who want to cover distance economically.

The RV-9A appeals to builder-pilots who want a practical, efficient two-seat airplane for regular cross-country flying and weekend adventures. Unlike the more aerobatic RV-7 and RV-8, the RV-9A prioritizes stability and ease of handling, making it an excellent choice for pilots who value a smooth ride and predictable characteristics. The massive Vans Aircraft builder community, extensive online resources, and active fly-in culture make the RV-9A one of the best-supported experimental aircraft projects available.

Van's RV-9A aircraft for sale

11 used Van's RV-9A aircraft for sale under $200,000 · 2-seat · Used median asking $140,000 · New from $115,000 · updated 3 hours ago

Van's RV-9A Specifications

Model spec

The Van's RV-9A is a 2-seat experimental with a cruise speed of 160 kt (296 km/h), a range of 650 nm (1,204 km), and a useful load of 600 lbs (272 kg).

Performance
Cruise160 kt (296 km/h)
Range650 nm (1,204 km)
Service Ceiling22,000 ft (6,706 m)
Engine & Fuel
Horsepower160 HP
Fuel Burn6.0 GPH (23 L/h)
TBO2,000 hrs
ICAO TypeRV9
Weights & Seats
Seats2
Useful Load600 lbs (272 kg)
Production1995–present

Van's RV-9A for Sale

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Van's RV-9A asking prices range from $115,000 to $225,000, with a median of $140,000 (market reference $125,000).

$115,000 ↓ -$20K
New
Location Gladwin, MI
$115,000
For Sale
Total Time 525
Reg# N451CB US
Location Prescott, AZ
Listed 1mo ago
$125,000
For Sale
Reg# N337CW US
Location Rockport, ME
Listed 7d ago
$130,000
For Sale
Total Time 495
Reg# N541GW US
Location Nampa, ID
Via jim crone
Listed 1mo ago
$134,000
For Sale
Total Time 420
Reg# CX-JCD
Location Rivera URY
Listed 2mo ago
$139,500
For Sale
Total Time 350
Location Meadville, PA
Listed 24d ago
$139,500
For Sale
Reg# N238LS US
Location Canfield, OH
Listed 27d ago
$145,000
For Sale
Total Time 824
Reg# C-GHSG Canada
Location Prince Albert, SK, Canada
Multiple sources
$159,000
For Sale
Total Time 985
Reg# N962MC US
Location Hillsboro, OR
$170,000
For Sale
Total Time 607
Reg# N9396S US
Location Portland, OR
Listed 1mo ago

Compare Van's RV-9A

Detailed comparisons for the Van's RV-9A are being prepared.

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Van's RV-9A Price & Cost

How much does a Van's RV-9A cost? Used RV-9A prices: $115K – $225K, average $140K (median $140K); market reference $125K, across 11 priced of 11 active listings.

Van's RV-9A Price Guide

Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.

Van's RV-9A Cost of Ownership estimate
Fuel (6.0 GPH × $6.20, 100 hrs)$3,720/yr
Annual Fixed (hangar, insurance, annual)$10,000/yr
Variable (per hour)$85/hr
Engine Overhaul (every 2,000 hrs)$20,000
Estimates at 100 flight hours/year. Actual costs vary by usage, location and insurance.

Buying a Used Van's RV-9A

Buying a Van's RV-9A comes down to a focused pre-purchase checklist — here is what matters most on this model:

What to check before buying

The defining cost driver is build quality and configuration. Airframe workmanship, engine and propeller choice, wiring, documentation, inspection history, and transition-training fit matter more than generic piston-single expense.

Frequently Asked Questions — Van's RV-9A

What should buyers know about the Van's RV-9A?
The RV-9A is a two-seat experimental aircraft — build quality varies enormously between examples. Pre-2019 models have an older nose gear design prone to shimmy; Van's updated it to rubber-isolator design. The RV-9A is NOT rated for aerobatics despite the RV name — structural limits are lower than the RV-7 or RV-8. Always verify build logs and condition inspection history.
What are the risks of buying a completed RV-9A vs. building one?
About 36% of RV-9A accidents involved auto-engine conversions — avoid non-certified engine installations. A well-built RV-9A with a Lycoming O-320 or O-360 is very reliable. When buying completed, verify builder reputation, inspect for proper riveting and sealant work, and confirm the aircraft has a current condition inspection. Budget $80-140K for a quality completed example.
How does the RV-9A compare to the RV-12 or RV-14?
The RV-9A offers better cruise speed (155+ knots) and useful load than the RV-12 (light sport category, 118 knots). The RV-14 is larger with a wider cabin and stronger structure but costs more to build. The RV-9A is the value option for a capable two-seat cross-country aircraft. All Van's RVs benefit from the largest experimental aircraft community and parts support network.

Van's RV-9A Inventory by Country

United States13
Canada1

Van's RV-9A by Price

Under $200k1
Under $300k1
Under $500k1

Van's RV-9A by Decade

2000s2
2010s6
2020s2

Recently Sold Van's RV-9A

2003 RV-9A$100,000

Van's RV-9A Safety Record

Across all RV-9A variants, 1 NTSB-recorded events are on file from 2014–2014. As with any aircraft, most outcomes depend on pilot training, maintenance and operating conditions rather than the airframe itself.

1

Total Events

0

Incidents

0

Serious

1

Fatal

Most Recent Events

Date Location Severity Probable Cause
Feb 23, 2014 Tribune, KS Fatal (1) The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control while conducting high-g turns, which resulted in impact with terrain. C…

NTSB records 2014–2014. Includes all Van's RV-9A variants. Events ≠ aircraft fault.

Disclaimer: All prices, cost estimates, and market values shown are based on asking prices from third-party sources and are provided for informational purposes only. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and independent inspection before making a purchase decision.
Listings last refreshed 3 hours ago · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data