What to Look for During a Pre-Purchase Inspection

A Complete Checklist for Aircraft Buyers Before You Close the Deal

In the world of aircraft sales, due diligence isn’t optional—it’s essential. A pre-purchase inspection protects buyers from unknown risks and helps assess the true condition and value of the aircraft. Done right, it can prevent costly surprises. Done poorly—or skipped—it can turn your investment into a liability.

Why the Pre-Buy Inspection Matters

In the world of aircraft sales, due diligence isn’t optional—it’s essential. A pre-purchase inspection protects buyers from unknown risks and helps assess the true condition and value of the aircraft. Done right, it can prevent costly surprises. Done poorly—or skipped—it can turn your investment into a liability.

Who Should Be Involved?

Think of a pre-buy as a coordinated effort. While the inspection itself is performed by an authorized maintenance provider, it’s the buyer’s responsibility to ensure the right people are involved:

• A knowledgeable acquisition advisor or broker to manage communication
• The inspection facility or MRO to complete the technical review
• A legal advisor to oversee documentation and registration
• An escrow agent to hold funds and coordinate title transfer

What’s Included in the Inspection?

Every inspection should be tailored to the aircraft, but most include:

• Airframe checks for corrosion, repairs, and compliance
• Engine evaluations and borescope inspections
• Avionics testing and equipment verification
• Logbook and document review (completeness is critical)
• Interior and cosmetic assessments

The best inspections go deeper than a surface review—they uncover maintenance practices, reveal how the aircraft was flown, and spotlight upcoming costs.

Common Red Flags

Even pristine-looking aircraft can have hidden issues. Here are some warning signs:

• Missing or incomplete logbooks
• Non-compliance with airworthiness directives (ADs)
• Damage history not disclosed
• Deferred maintenance or expired inspections
• Incompatible avionics or outdated software

Each of these items can affect aircraft value, insurability, or even airworthiness.

What You Can Expect to Spend and How Long It Takes

Inspections range widely in both price and duration depending on aircraft class and scope. A light jet might take 5–7 business days and cost around $15,000–$25,000. A large cabin aircraft could take up to three weeks and exceed $100,000.

Buyers typically cover inspection costs—but they can sometimes be negotiated as part of the final purchase agreement.

After the Inspection: What Happens Next

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a detailed discrepancy list. From here:

• Review findings with your advisor or maintenance partner
• Decide whether to accept, renegotiate, or walk away
• Resolve discrepancies and finalize the Aircraft Purchase Agreement (APA)
• Fund escrow, complete documentation, and schedule delivery

Transparency and speed matter here. It’s often the make-or-break phase of the deal.

Final Takeaway

Never skip the pre-buy. A few days and dollars up front can protect you from major headaches later. And the peace of mind it offers? Priceless.

📩 Email Sales@Eagle-Aviation.com to start the conversation.