Investing in a pre-purchase inspection (PPI), before you buy a used aircraft is a crucial step towards a safe and successful ownership experience. Just like any complex used machinery, an airplane requires a thorough evaluation by a qualified professional to identify any underlying issues that may affect its airworthiness or performance. A prebuy inspection, conducted by an independent and certified mechanic, provides you, the buyer, with the knowledge and leverage you need to make an informed decision about your aircraft purchase.
What Does a Pre-Purchase Inspection Entail?
If the choice for an aircraft is made a Letter of Intent or Aircraft Purchase Agreement (APA) will be set-up. The latter will include the scope of the PPI and the selection of a neutral maintenance facility. The maintenance facility selected must not have an pre-existing relationship with the seller. This to avoid a conflict of interest. It is very important that the independent facility is able to demonstrate experience with the aircraft type being inspected.
A comprehensive aircraft prebuy inspection typically involves a meticulous examination of the aircraft’s interior, exterior, and all major systems. The inspector will meticulously examine the airframe, engine, avionics, landing gear, and propeller for signs of wear, corrosion, damage history, or any potential mechanical problems. The inspection will also include a review of the aircraft’s logbooks and maintenance records to ensure that all required maintenance has been performed up to date.
Ideally, both buyer and seller will have representatives on site throughout the inspection process. The PPI will be completed before any discrepancies are rectified.
A final aircraft pre buy inspection report will be generated and delivered to the buyer, providing a summary of the aircraft condition and status of airworthiness related items. In this aircraft pre purchase inspection report a PPI will identify two categories of discrepancy: airworthiness limiting and non airworthiness limiting. The LOI or APA state who will pay for rectifications. As a rule of thumb the seller will pay for the airworthiness limiting items as they’re obliged to deliver a fully airworthy aircraft to the buyer. On the other, non airworthiness items, the buyer and seller have to agree regarding cost of corrective actions. If the two parties approve the individual items the transaction can move towards completion.
Benefits of a Aircraft Pre-Purchase Inspection
A professional aircraft prebuy inspection offers a multitude of benefits for both the buyer and the seller. For the buyer, the inspection provides invaluable insights into the condition of the aircraft, allowing you to make an informed decision about the purchase. By identifying any existing or potential issues, you can negotiate a fair price that reflects the aircraft’s true condition. The inspection report can also serve as a roadmap for future maintenance planning, saving you time and money in the long run.
Investing in Confidence
At FA Aircraft Sales, we understand the importance of a comprehensive and reliable pre-purchase inspection for your used aircraft purchase. Our team of experienced and certified mechanics is dedicated to providing you with a detailed and objective guidance in this process. We will work closely with you throughout the inspection process to answer any questions you may have and ensure you have the information you need to move forward with confidence.
Many used aircraft buyers lack specialized aircraft purchasing knowledge (and time). We will make sure that you don’t buy an aircraft that is grounded in the end due to unforeseen causes!
Do you need help with the pre purchase inspection? You can contact us by e-mail at sales@faaircraftsales.com or give us a call at