How hard is it to import a Canadian registered AC and reregister it in the US?

Definitely a few hoops to jump through, but it's done quite often. I have been looking at bringing a Scout in across the border; the current exchange rate is extremely attractive!

http://www.aopa.org/Pilot-Resources/PIC ... g-Aircraft

If you have the seller provide an Export CofA it will go quite smoothly. If there are any mods that are not approved in the US they will have to be removed, so check that carefully before going ahead.

Yes...thanks. It looks like the key is making sure that all the Canadian paperwork is done before money is released. If it hasn't been unregistered there it can't be registered here. The aircraft looks to be pretty stock, but that would need to be verified. I guess I need to check on export import taxes as well.

I think it will be easiest to leave it registered, fly it down there and then deregister it. That's what I was told when my citabria went south last spring. Same if importing the other way, leave the it registered in the US, fly it here, then send in the deregistration paperwork. If the deregistration and bill of sale are sent in together, TC and FAA communicate making the process quicker.

I bought my Fleet Canuck in April and got it licensed
In November.
Verify the type certificates are the same, Field Approvals in Canada are a whole different breed, and expect a few delays.
I'm happy with mine and wasn't really surprised by the process.
Saying that, I was somewhat surprised by some mechanical items after export inspection from Transport Canada.
YMMV
Dave

Dave,

A 6 month process would be a game changer for me. If that is typical I wouldn't really consider doing it. A US built and certified aircraft. It has been restored in Canada and has an STC for a motor swap (one that is very common for the aircraft). If it is a matter of paperwork and fees, I can live with it. If it is a matter of re-approval and a long wait to fly, I'll probably pass on it.

Daryl

If it were me I would have the Canadian owner provide an Export CofA and have the plane deregistered. Bringing the aircraft in and doing it later could cost you big bucks (5000to10000). I bought a heavily modified Cessna 185 in Quebec back in the nineties and imported it with the Export CofA and deregistering it and when I got back to Arizona it cost me $700.00 for the annual and CofA. When all this was being done in Canada Transport Canada made the Canadian owner replace some control surface skins and paint them as well, also cleaned up some paperwork concerning radio installs as well. If the Canadian seller refuses to do this I would definitely renegociate the price to reflect this or move on. The dollar is in your favor right now!

littlewheelinback wrote:How hard is it to import a Canadian registered AC and reregister it in the US?

Sending you a PM.