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Alabama Aircraft Registrations: Facts, Records, Laws, and Statistics
Overview and Registration Counts
- Alabama has approximately 4,234 to 4,302 registered aircraft, according to recent FAA and state aviation sources.
- Aircraft are registered in all 67 counties. Montgomery County leads with 731, followed by Madison (440) and Jefferson (347).
- Ownership breakdown: Individuals (1,893), Corporations (1,932), Partnerships (25), Co-owned (260), Government (155).
Private Jet Registration Insights
- Average private jet age: 31 years. Median manufacture year: 2005.
- Top cities: Birmingham (71), Mobile (15), Tuscaloosa (9).
- Owners include universities, corporations, and medical services (e.g., Auburn University, University of Alabama).
Taxation and Filing Requirements
- Aircraft are subject to annual property tax, assessed by ALDOR and paid to counties.
- Filing window: Oct 1 – Dec 31 via Form ADV-ACR45 (no e-filing).
- Sales tax: 4% state + up to 8.5% local.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
- Governing law: Alabama Code Title 4, Chapter 2, Article 3.
- Key laws cover airspace, licensing, and registration (Sections 4-2-70 to 4-2-78).
- Operating aircraft without federal certification is prohibited.
FAA and Federal Oversight
- FAA handles registrations and certifications.
- Alabama & NW Florida FSDO provides local oversight and support.
- Drone registration required for aircraft under 55 lbs.
State-Owned Aircraft
- State departments operate fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters (e.g., Conservation, Highway Department).
Notable Trends and Facts
- Aircraft range from 1970s-era jets to new 2023 registrations.
- Corporate/institutional ownership is prominent.
- Alabama hosts many private airfields and aircraft dealers.
Summary Table: Key Alabama Aircraft Registration Statistics
| Statistic | Value/Detail |
|---|---|
| Total Registered Aircraft | ~4,234–4,302 |
| Largest County (by registrations) | Montgomery (731) |
| Average Private Jet Age | 31 years |
| Median Jet Manufacture Year | 2005 |
| Main Registration Types | Individual, Corporate, Gov’t |
| State Aircraft Sales Tax | 4% (+0–8.5% local) |
| Annual Property Tax Filing | Oct 1 – Dec 31 |
| Relevant State Law | Alabama Code Title 4, Ch. 2, Art. 3 |
References to Laws and Procedures
- Aircraft must comply with FAA and Alabama laws.
- Annual property tax filings required for all based aircraft.
- Aircraft sales taxed by state and local jurisdictions.
- Federal and state documentation must be displayed and ready for inspection.
For more information, visit the Alabama Department of Revenue, FAA Aircraft Registry, or view the full Alabama Code.