Waco UPF-7 Aircraft under $200,000

Under $200k for a piston single is the mid-range price band — typically 1980s-2000s airframes, mid-life engines with reasonable run, GPS-equipped panels with ADS-B Out, often factory glass cockpit on modern variants (Cirrus G1/G2, Cessna 172 NAV-III). Solid value middle of the market.

The WACO UPF-7 is a classic two-seat open-cockpit biplane from the 1930s and 1940s, one of the most beloved vintage aircraft in American aviation. Burning approximately 16 gallons per hour, the UPF-7 offers the thrill of open-cockpit barnstorming. It appeals to warbird collectors, vintage aviation enthusiasts, and pilots who love the golden age of flight.

Waco UPF-7 aircraft for sale

1 used Waco UPF-7 aircraft for sale under $200,000 · 2-seat · Reference price ~$200,000 ($120,000–$350,000) · updated 2 days ago

Waco UPF-7 Specifications

Model spec

The Waco UPF-7 is a 2-seat single engine piston with a cruise speed of 99 kt (183 km/h), a range of 348 nm (644 km), and a useful load of 600 lbs (272 kg).

Performance
Cruise99 kt (183 km/h)
Max Speed165 kt (306 km/h)
Range348 nm (644 km)
Service Ceiling14,000 ft (4,267 m)
Engine & Fuel
Horsepower220 HP
Fuel Burn16.0 GPH (61 L/h)
TBO1,200 hrs
ICAO TypeWACF
Weights & Seats
Seats2
Max Gross Weight2,650 lbs (1,202 kg)
Useful Load600 lbs (272 kg)
Production1941–1947

Waco UPF-7 for Sale

Waco UPF-7 asking prices range from $128,000 to $128,000, with a median of $128,000 (market reference $200,000).

$128,000
For Sale
Total Time 8,315
Reg# N32159 US
Location Petersburg, VA
Multiple sources

Compare Waco UPF-7

Detailed comparisons for the Waco UPF-7 are being prepared.

Browse all Waco models →

Waco UPF-7 Price & Cost

How much does a Waco UPF-7 cost? Used UPF-7 prices: from $128K; market reference $200K, across 1 priced of 1 active listings.

Waco UPF-7 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.

Waco UPF-7 Cost of Ownership estimate
Fuel (16.0 GPH × $6.20, 100 hrs)$9,920/yr
Annual Fixed (hangar, insurance, annual)$18,000/yr
Variable (per hour)$200/hr
Engine Overhaul (every 1,200 hrs)$40,000
Estimates at 100 flight hours/year. Actual costs vary by usage, location and insurance.

Buying a Used Waco UPF-7

Buying a Waco UPF-7 comes down to a focused pre-purchase checklist — here is what matters most on this model:

What to check before buying

The cost driver is restoration and vintage support. Fabric age, wood/steel structure condition, radial engine status, authenticity, hangar environment, and specialist maintenance access define the real budget.

Frequently Asked Questions — Waco UPF-7

What makes the WACO UPF-7 a prized biplane?
The WACO UPF-7 (1937-1942) is a classic American open-cockpit biplane powered by a Continental W-670 radial engine (220 hp). It was the primary civilian trainer of its era. Used prices of $80-180K for airworthy examples. The UPF-7 offers the quintessential barnstorming experience — tandem cockpits, round engine, and fabric-covered wings. Active WACO clubs provide excellent parts and maintenance support.
What are the ownership realities of a WACO UPF-7?
Radial engine maintenance requires specialist skills — the Continental W-670 needs pre-oiling, careful temperature management, and tolerant of oil consumption. Fabric covering requires periodic inspection and eventual recovering ($15-30K). Parts are available through specialty suppliers and WACO clubs. Annual costs run $5-10K. The UPF-7 is not practical transportation — it is a flying time machine that rewards hands-on owners.

Waco UPF-7 Inventory by Country

United States3

Waco UPF-7 by Price

Under $200k1
Under $300k2
Under $500k2

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Waco UPF-7 Safety Record

Across all UPF-7 variants, 45 NTSB-recorded events are on file from 1982–2024. As with any aircraft, most outcomes depend on pilot training, maintenance and operating conditions rather than the airframe itself.

45

Total Events

24

Incidents

3

Serious

3

Fatal

Most Recent Events

Date Location Severity Probable Cause
Feb 24, 2024 Atlanta, GA Incident The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the landing in gusting crosswind conditions.
Aug 20, 2023 Warrenton, VA Incident A ground loop during landing resulting from a partial separation of the right main landing gear strut during takeoff.
Aug 06, 2022 Erwinna, PA Minor The inability of both pilots to see and avoid the collision. Contributing to the accident was the pilot of the red airpl…
Mar 11, 2013 Paso Robles, CA Minor The pilot's failure to adequately compensate for crosswind conditions, which resulted in a loss of directional control d…
Aug 27, 2012 Jim Falls, WI Incident The blockage of the right fuel tank vent, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel starvation.

NTSB records 1982–2024. Includes all Waco UPF-7 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 2 days ago · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data