VULTEE Warbirds for Sale

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Browse warbird aircraft for sale — restored WWII and vintage military aircraft representing the golden age of aviation. Used warbirds range from $80K for PT-17 Stearman biplanes to $3M+ for fully restored P-51 Mustangs and Spitfires. Compare prices on P-51 Mustang, North American T-6 Texan, Boeing Stearman, Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, and other historic military aircraft. Owning a warbird is preserving aviation history while experiencing the thrill of flying aircraft that changed the world.

Browse by Type
WWII Trainers for Sale: Boeing/Stearman PT-17, North American T-6/SNJ Texan, Fairchild PT-19/23, Ryan PT-22. $80K-$400K. The most accessible warbirds with strong parts support and active flying communities.
WWII Fighters for Sale: P-51 Mustang, Supermarine Spitfire, Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, Grumman F6F Hellcat, Chance Vought F4U Corsair, P-47 Thunderbolt. $1M-$4M+. The pinnacle of piston-engine performance and the most iconic warbirds.
WWII Bombers & Transports for Sale: B-25 Mitchell, Douglas A-26 Invader, C-47/DC-3, PBY Catalina. $300K-$3M+. Multi-engine warbirds offering unique type ratings and airshow presence.
Popular: Boeing Stearman PT-17 North American T-6 Texan P-51 Mustang Curtiss P-40 Warhawk Supermarine Spitfire Grumman TBM Avenger B-25 Mitchell Fairchild PT-19 F4U Corsair Douglas A-26 Invader

Buying Tips

  • ✓ Radial engine overhauls (R-1340, R-985, R-2800, Merlin V-1650) cost $50K-$200K — check remaining TBO and oil analysis history.
  • ✓ Structural integrity is paramount — many warbirds are 80+ years old. Spar inspections, wing attach fittings, and carry-through structure must be meticulously checked.
  • ✓ Parts availability varies by type — P-51 and T-6 parts are well-supported. Rarer types may require expensive custom fabrication.
  • ✓ Warbird insurance is specialized and expensive — $15K-$50K+/yr from underwriters like AIG, Global Aerospace, or Old Republic. Pilot minimums are strict.
  • ✓ Fabric-covered warbirds (Stearman, PT-19) need re-covering every 10-20 years at $15K-$50K depending on the aircraft.
  • ✓ Documentation and provenance add 10-20% to value — original military records, combat history, and restoration documentation are highly prized.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a warbird cost?
Entry-level warbirds: Boeing Stearman PT-17 ($80K-$200K), North American T-6 Texan ($150K-$400K), Fairchild PT-19 ($80K-$150K). Mid-range: P-40 Warhawk ($800K-$2M), Grumman TBM Avenger ($500K-$1.5M). Premium fighters: P-51 Mustang ($1.5M-$4M+), Supermarine Spitfire ($2M-$5M+), F4U Corsair ($2M-$4M). Prices depend heavily on restoration quality and flight status.
How much does it cost to operate a warbird?
A Stearman or T-6 Texan costs $300-$500/hr to operate. P-51 Mustang: $2,000-$3,000/hr (Merlin burns 60-80 gal/hr). P-40 Warhawk: $1,500-$2,500/hr. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, inspections) add $20K-$60K for trainers and $50K-$150K for fighters. Many warbird owners fly 20-40 hours/year for airshows and personal enjoyment.
Do I need a special license to fly a warbird?
You need a private pilot certificate with tailwheel endorsement for most warbirds. For complex and high-performance warbirds, you need the appropriate endorsements. Warbird-specific type training through organizations like the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) or specialty operators is strongly recommended. Many insurance companies require 10+ hours of dual instruction in type before solo.
What is the best warbird to buy for a first-time owner?
The Boeing Stearman PT-17 is the classic entry-level warbird — open cockpit biplane, Continental or Lycoming radial engine ($80K-$200K purchase, $300-$500/hr to operate). The North American T-6 Texan offers more performance with a P&W R-1340 radial ($150K-$400K). Both have excellent parts availability, active type clubs, and wide insurance acceptance.
Are warbirds a good investment?
Well-restored warbirds, especially WWII fighters, have appreciated significantly over 20 years. A P-51 Mustang that sold for $500K in 2000 may sell for $2M-$3M+ today. However, annual operating and maintenance costs are substantial ($30K-$150K/yr), and values can fluctuate with the collector market. Warbird ownership is primarily a passion — treat any appreciation as a bonus, not a strategy.
Disclaimer: All prices are asking prices from third-party sources. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and inspection before purchasing.