Find Aircraft for Hire in Australia
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600kg MTOW RAAus Aircraft Hire
Find affordable, lightweight recreational aircraft available for hire under the RAAus 600kg MTOW category. Perfect for student pilots, budget-conscious flyers, or anyone seeking efficient cross-country time-building in aircraft like the Jabiru, Bristell, or CTLS.
VH-Registered Aircraft Hire
Access a wide range of VH-registered aircraft available for hire across Australia, including single-engine trainers, IFR-ready cross-country aircraft, and twin-engine options. Ideal for PPL/CPL holders looking to stay current or build hours in aircraft like the Cessna 172, Piper Archer, or Beechcraft Baron.
Helicopter Hire Across Australia
Discover helicopter rental options for training, private charter, or scenic flying in rotorcraft such as the Robinson R22, R44, and Bell 206. Listings include solo hire (where applicable), dual instruction, and location-specific availability at approved helipads and aerodromes
Explore Aircraft Rental Options in Australia
If you fly less than 50 hours a year, then hiring aircraft is a cost effective way to maintain your currency and enjoy your chosen leisure. This gives you access to a wide array of aircraft types so that you don’t have to “settle” on one particular mission. Find interesting flying opportunities in your local area with aircraft hire options at your local airfield.
Single-Engine Aircraft Hire
Hire popular trainers like Cessna 172s, Piper Archers, and Diamond DA40s for private flying, student time-building, or checkrides.
Multi-Engine Aircraft Hire
Access twin-engine aircraft such as Beechcraft Barons and Piper Seminoles for advanced training, IFR experience, or commercial preparation.
Tailwheel, Aerobatic & Seaplane Hire
Find unique flying experiences with taildraggers, aerobatic aircraft, or floatplanes. Great for endorsements or fun flights.
Helicopter & Rotorcraft Hire
Explore helicopter rental options across Australia for private charter, time-building, or instructor-led training.
1. Advanced Aircraft Search Filters
Sort listings by aircraft type, base airport, price per hour, pilot license level required, and instructor availability.
2. Verified Rental Provider Listings
All aircraft hire listings are reviewed and updated regularly for accuracy, with provider details, aircraft specs, and contact info.
3. Detailed Aircraft Information & Rental Terms
Each listing includes aircraft model, avionics type, wet/dry rates, fuel policies, maintenance status, and renter requirements
Finding the Right Aircraft
Compare Aircraft Rental Rates
Check hourly rates, minimum bookings, fuel policies, and instructor hire add-ons to avoid hidden surprises.
Understand Aircraft Mission Types
Need to build multi-engine time? Looking for glass cockpit experience? Each aircraft listing helps you choose by purpose.
Rental Requirements & Safety Policies
Listings include renter requirements such as license level, recent hours, endorsements, and available checkride support.
Aircraft Hire FAQ's
Got questions before you book? Get clear answers to common aircraft rental topics.
The license required depends on the category of aircraft you’re hiring:
For RAAus aircraft (600kg MTOW), you’ll need a valid RAAus Pilot Certificate with the appropriate endorsements.
For VH-registered aircraft, you’ll typically need a Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL), Private Pilot Licence (PPL) or higher (e.g., CPL or ATPL), depending on the aircraft and mission.
For helicopters, a valid Rotary CPL or PPL(H) is required, with appropriate endorsements and recency.
Some providers may also require specific endorsements (e.g., tailwheel, CSU, retractable gear) and ask you to demonstrate competency (eg. 20min check ride).
Most aircraft in Australia are rented wet, meaning the hourly rate includes fuel. However, policies can vary:
Some aircraft are offered dry hire (fuel not included) to allow flexibility on longer trips.
Wet hire usually includes oil and basic consumables.
Always check if fuel surcharges apply for cross-country flights or remote refuelling.
Pilot Base listings clearly indicate whether hire is wet or dry.
Yes, many providers allow cross-country and overnight flights, but:
Minimum booking durations or daily minimum hours may apply (e.g., 3 hours/day).
You may need prior approval for long trips or landings at remote airstrips.
Overnight parking and tie-downs are your responsibility unless arranged with the operator.
Confirm conditions in advance to avoid unexpected fees.
Cancellation policies differ by provider but typically include:
24–72 hours’ notice for no-fee cancellations.
Short-notice cancellations may incur a partial charge or forfeiture of deposit.
Weather-related reschedules are often more flexible, especially for solo hire or training flights.
Always review the cancellation terms provided at the time of booking.
Not always. Solo hire is available for licensed pilots who meet:
Aircraft-specific recency or endorsement requirements
Satisfactory checkout flight (if required by the provider)
Proof of medical, license, and logbook currency
An instructor is mandatory for:
Student pilots or those without a valid license
Flights requiring endorsements or reviews
High-performance or complex aircraft unless already endorsed
You’ll generally need to provide:
A copy of your pilot license and medical certificate
Logbook entries showing recent experience in the aircraft type or category
Completion of a check flight with an instructor (if required)
Confirmation of insurance or liability acceptance
Many providers accept digital logbook excerpts or scanned documents in advance.
Inclusions vary but typically cover:
Aircraft rental per Hobbs or Tacho hour
Fuel and oil (for wet hire)
Use of onboard headsets and GPS (where available)
Basic consumables (e.g., oil, cleaning)
Some fees may be excluded, such as:
Landing fees at other airports
Instructor charges (if applicable)
Damage liability insurance excess
Each listing on Pilot Base details what’s included in your hire.
Yes—many pilots use aircraft hire to build hours toward CPL or IFR ratings. To qualify for solo hire:
You’ll need to demonstrate currency and aircraft-specific experience
Some providers offer block hour packages or loyalty discounts
Check if your hire includes cross-country use, as some limit local flying without approval
Excess amounts vary based on the aircraft and insurer but commonly range from:
$1,500 – $5,000 for light GA aircraft
$7,000+ for helicopters or high-performance aircraft
You may be offered:
Excess reduction coverage (optional daily fee)
A bond or credit card pre-auth held during hire
Ensure you understand your liability before signing the hire agreement.
Absolutely. Hours logged in hired aircraft can often be used toward:
Flight time requirements for licenses and endorsements
Hour-building for commercial or instrument rating prerequisites
Flight reviews or BFRs when flown with a qualified instructor
Ensure your logbook entries are endorsed by an instructor if hours are to count toward structured training.
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List Your Aircraft for Hire
If your aircraft is flying less than 100 hours a year, then you need to find a pilot to help you get the hours up! Aircraft hate sitting around in a hangar, they need to be used to maintain their operational currency.
Whether you own a recreational RAAus aircraft, a VH-registered IFR trainer, or a commercial-grade helicopter, our platform can connect you with active pilots searching for short-term and long-term hire options. With advanced filters, verified pilot profiles, and Australia-wide reach, Pilot Base makes it easy to connect with quality local pilots and keep your aircraft running in peak condition.