How to
Buy an Aircraft

Step 1:
Choose the Make/Model
that is Right for You

Step 2:
Get Pre-Qualified
for Financing

Step 3
Shop Around

Step 4
Research Your Aircraft

Step 5
Put Deposit on Plane/
Open Escrow Account

Step 6
Pre-Purchase Inspection

Step 7
Verify the Aircraft
has a Clean Title

Step 8
Get a Quality
Insurance Policy

Step 9
Arrange Final Payment

Step 10
Closing Paperwork

Step 11
Pick Up your plane/
Schedule Delivery

Printable Version

Aircraft Buyer's Checklist

Step 6:   Pre-Purchase Inspection
The pre-purchase inspection is the financial responsibility of the buyer and money well spent. If there is anything wrong with the aircraft you want to know about it before you become the one responsible to fix it. A mechanic of your choice will be hired to be your "technical guru". He or she will be your eyes and your advisor at this point. To minimize the expense, we recommend you find a mechanic near the aircraft to perform the inspection. We can help you locate a respectable mechanic or give you a list of names in the local area for you to review.

In order to assist the mechanic in thoroughly examining your aircraft, you should supply the list of aircraft specifications along with a pre-purchase inspection checklist, required by some financing institutions. Your mechanic will verify the spec list plus inspect the aircraft, its engine, avionics, equipment and documentation. Afterwards, you will talk to your mechanic on the phone about the condition of your aircraft, both mechanical and cosmetic. It is your responsibility to make sure you fully understand the results of the inspection. If something doesn't make sense to you, ask questions or get a second opinion. As long as the aircraft is found to be in the same condition as advertised, the sale will proceed.

If something undesirable does comes up in the inspection, it doesn't necessarily mean the sale can't happen. It just means both sides need to come to an agreement on a solution. The seller may opt to fix the problem or renegotiate the price, either way; a solution is often possible that will make both sides happy. Remember, you are buying a used aircraft, don't expect it to be in perfect condition.

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