Overview
The idea of getting a new plane is exciting. Once you have an idea of the aircraft you want to purchase, then the real work begins. Many people will skip performing a full aircraft pre purchase inspection, particularly if a scheduled inspection and maintenance was recently performed. However, experience has taught us that having a thorough pre purchase inspection will ensure that you have an airworthy aircraft, rather than one that ends up costing you more money.
Pre Purchase Inspection
The cost of an aircraft pre purchase inspection is covered by the buyer. Therefore, selecting an experienced company to perform the inspection is very important, not only to ensure airworthiness and safety of the aircraft, but to also ensure you receive the greatest value. Interview maintenance providers with the following in mind:
- Do they have an outstanding reputation?
- Do they have extensive knowledge on the make and model aircraft you are considering?
- Is the mechanic performing the actual inspection an expert on the aircraft?
Once you have chosen the maintenance facility, there are additional steps you want to take to ensure you are appropriately covered in this process. First, make sure there is no bias either toward or against the aircraft you want to purchase. Second, get the entire scope of the inspection in writing so you know up front exactly what services are being delivered.
Before you start the aircraft inspection, make sure you perform a thorough evaluation of the records, including aircraft maintenance logs. Additionally, ensure accurate records showing compliance with manufacturer’s Service Bulletins are available and up-to-date. Many are tied to the aircraft’s scheduled inspection program and may affect how you maintain the aircraft going forward.
All STCs, 337s and major repairs require review for completeness and to ensure incorporation of Instructions for Continued Airworthiness. While many business jets are on a manufacturer-approved maintenance program, it is still worth the time to verify that the aircraft is on the correct program for the serial number and modification status.
Conclusion
Remember that any errors made by previous owners will become your problem after the purchase, including the assessment of fines or even loss of your license. Therefore, ensuring a thorough and professional aircraft pre purchase inspection is performed is critical.
You can find more information on Pre Purchase Inspection of your aircraft on our Website.
