Brian, you're right. I've sold many things on eBay, including a few motorcycles. There are "buyers" who think it is a game and that they can just "quit the game" after the auction is over with no harm done. Sometimes it is hard to tell them from the legitimate buyers from the gamers before the auction is over.
I've even had people "buy it now" and then threaten to leave negative feedback if I don't give them a break on the price or throw something in. It's not easy, but I still have a 100% positive rating.
As for selling an airplane there, it is scary, but you cannot beat eBay for advertising. If it is in the condition that he claims, it will sell.