By Vincent Wigmans

In the fast-paced world of aircraft sales, where high stakes and large sums of money are involved, it’s not uncommon to encounter peculiar characters engaging in questionable practices. From mysterious brokers operating through Gmail accounts to deposit scams designed to exploit the urgency of a supposedly time-sensitive deal, the aircraft sales industry has its fair share of strange tales.

One of the more dubious practices involves individuals posing as legitimate aircraft brokers using Gmail accounts. While reputable brokers and dealers operate with registered businesses, licenses, and verifiable contact information, these dubious characters prefer the anonymity offered by free email services. The lack of a professional facade raises immediate red flags for those familiar with the industry, prompting a closer look at the legitimacy of their operations.

To protect yourself from falling victim to such “brokers”, potential aircraft buyers should exercise due diligence and follow these precautions:

1. Verify Aircraft Broker Credentials: Legitimate brokers and dealers have registered businesses, licenses, and professional contact information. Verify their credentials before engaging in any transactions.

2. Never Rush Transactions: Be wary of high-pressure tactics and urgent timelines. Scammers often use time constraints to prevent potential buyers from conducting thorough research.

3. Check Ownership and Documentation: Verify the ownership of the aircraft and the legitimacy of the sale. Ensure that all necessary documentation, including registration and maintenance records, is in order.

4. Use Trusted Escrow Services: When making payments, consider using reputable escrow services that can provide an additional layer of security for transactions.

5. Trust Your Instincts: If something seems too good to be true or if the situation feels suspicious, trust your instincts.

By staying vigilant and adopting a cautious approach, potential buyers can navigate the world of aircraft sales more safely and avoid falling prey to scams orchestrated by unscrupulous individuals operating on the fringes of the industry.

Need help with a purchase? Contact us at sales@faaircraftsales.com or you can give us a call at: +31 (0)15 820 0999