selling an aircraft

NAFA member Amanda Applegate, Partner at Soar Aviation Law, shares her latest article about how to avoid costly mistakes when selling an aircraft.

When an aircraft owner decides to sell their aircraft, timing and precision are critical. Failing to execute key preparatory steps at the appropriate stage of the transaction can lead to significant financial costs, delays, or legal defaults. This article outlines ten essential actions required to ensure a smooth and successful aircraft sale.

1. Aircraft Specification Sheet (Marketing Materials) When marketing the aircraft for sale, the specification sheet must be 100% accurate. Advertising an aircraft with certain options or equipment only to discover a misrepresentation during the sale process can lead to serious legal and financial implications, including seller default.

2. Loose Equipment List  Establishing a definitive loose equipment list early in the process is vital. This equipment has value, and inventorying it in advance reduces the time required to finalize the sale agreement. Often, the loose equipment list is an exhibit to the sale agreement and failure to prepare it in advance can cause significant signing delays.

3. Aircraft Registration Number  Many aircraft owners have aircraft registration numbers that are important and personal to them and want the registration number excluded from the aircraft sale. The best way to make sure a seller does not lose control of their registration number is to change it prior to closing. A seller can submit the request to change the registration number with the FAA, although it is important to keep in mind that it is currently taking over three months for the FAA registry to issue 8050-64 forms. Once the 8050-64 form is issued, the owner of the aircraft has up to 12 months to make the registration number change. The 8050-64 form can be obtained in advance of listing the aircraft for sale and the aircraft registration number can be changed during the inspection of the aircraft and/or during the repair of discrepancies. This allows sellers to maintain control of the registration number that is important to them. Failure to follow this process means that a seller must negotiate with the buyer to get the registration number back after the aircraft is sold, which sometimes can result in delays or even the loss of the registration number.

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This article was originally published by Soar Aviation Law on August 18, 2026.

Aircraft owners must address a range of factors to maximize the sale price of their asset. From maintenance readiness to the negotiation process itself, industry experts share their sellers’ tips with Gerrard Cowan.

At the most basic level, aircraft readiness plays a key role in terms of aircraft sellers maximizing the value of a transaction to them.

According to Todd Jackson, Senior Vice President of Sales at Elliott Jets, aircraft that are current, well-presented and in turnkey condition tend to move through the process more efficiently and with less pricing pressure. “From the seller’s perspective, many of the costs are tied to how the aircraft is perceived before and during the transaction,” he notes.

Deferred maintenance and overall presentation have a direct impact on value, he warns. “Worn interiors, outdated avionics, or inconsistent records can influence buyer perception early, and create hesitation before the aircraft even reaches inspection.”

It is not uncommon for sellers to receive offers significantly below their asking price for failing to optimize presentation of their aircraft's interior and paint.

“Cosmetic deficiencies such as worn interiors, outdated paint, or malfunctioning cabin systems” all have an adverse impact for the aircraft seller, adds Aurelie Millet, Vice President of Sales at Opus Aero.

She highlights the potential impact of outstanding liens, or expired subscriptions or databases for avionics and connectivity systems as being a problem area. “Even relatively minor issues can reduce buyer confidence and lead to significant price reductions.”

The financial impact of failing to address these areas can be substantial, she says. A cosmetic refurbishment costing tens of thousands of dollars could preserve a much larger amount of value by improving first impressions and reducing buyer objections.

And Millet notes the danger of failing to position the aircraft in a marketable condition due to such factors as overdue inspections or unresolved discrepancies.

A stale listing can be particularly expensive, she says. “When an aircraft remains unsold for months, buyers may perceive it as problematic and become more aggressive in negotiations.”

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This article was originally published by AvBuyer on August 3, 2026.

NAFA member Arcadia Jets shares their latest article on how brokerage services simplify aircraft sales.

Selling an aircraft sounds simple until the process begins. Owners often assume the most difficult part will be finding a buyer, but experienced aircraft owners know that locating a prospective buyer is only one step in a much larger transaction. Pricing strategy, aircraft presentation, maintenance records, market conditions, inspections, negotiations, documentation, escrow, financing, and closing all influence whether a sale succeeds or falls apart.

This complexity is exactly why aircraft brokerage services continue to play an important role throughout the general aviation marketplace. A professional broker helps sellers navigate a process that can quickly become overwhelming while helping buyers evaluate opportunities with greater confidence. At Arcadia Jets, we view brokerage as much more than marketing aircraft. We view it as guiding clients through a transaction that involves significant financial decisions and long-term ownership considerations.

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This article was originally published by Arcadia Jets on July 7, 2026.

NAFA member CFS Jets shares part two of their latest article on when to replace a business jet.

Determining the right time to replace a business aircraft requires balancing operational risks against financial considerations. This article examines how aging jets accumulate downtime and maintenance risks while exploring whether to keep an older aircraft, purchase a newer pre-owned jet, or invest in a factory-new replacement. Through detailed financial modeling and real-world case studies, discover how net operating costs and NPV analysis can guide strategic aircraft replacement decisions.

Previously, we established that a business aircraft should be replaced when its risk profile begins to outweigh the benefit. This inflection point is rarely driven by a single cost, but by the combined effect of rising downtime risk, the growing likelihood of major maintenance events, fuel inefficiency, and growing regulatory and compliance burdens.

As aircraft age, operational volatility grows. More AOG days, longer MRO shop visits, parts constraints, and higher exposure to unplanned disruptions all increase.

When the expected cost of these risks – particularly aircraft downtime that directly impacts the business – approaches or exceeds the capital and financing cost of a replacement aircraft, replacement becomes economically justified.

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This article was originally published by CFS Jets on June 10, 2026.

NAFA member Arcadia Jets shares their latest article about aircraft brokers and what they do. 

Ask someone outside the aviation industry what an aircraft broker does and the answer is usually simple: a broker helps buy and sell airplanes. While technically accurate, that explanation barely scratches the surface of the role a professional aircraft broker plays in a successful transaction.

Aircraft ownership represents a significant financial commitment, and unlike many other assets, every airplane carries a unique history. Two aircraft of the same make, model, and year can have dramatically different values and ownership experiences. Maintenance practices, operational history, avionics upgrades, inspection status, engine programs, and recordkeeping all influence not only what an aircraft is worth today, but also what it may cost to own tomorrow.

This is where an experienced aircraft broker creates value. Rather than focusing solely on the transaction itself, a broker helps buyers and sellers understand the broader picture. The objective is not simply to complete a sale. The objective is to help clients make informed decisions that support their long-term aviation goals.

At Arcadia Jets, we often tell clients that the airplane is only one piece of the transaction. Understanding the aircraft, the market, and the strategy behind the acquisition or sale is what ultimately determines success.

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This article was originally published by Arcadia Jets on June 30, 2026.

NAFA member SOLJETS shares their latest article on steps to take before selling or upgrading your aircraft.

Selling or upgrading a private jet is a major financial decision, and for many owners, it is also a highly personal one. Whether your aircraft no longer fits your mission profile, your travel needs have changed, or you are ready to move into a newer platform, the process requires careful preparation. The most successful transactions rarely happen by chance. They happen when owners take the right steps before bringing their aircraft to market.‍

Before listing your jet or beginning the search for an upgrade, here are several important steps every aircraft owner should consider.

‍Understand Your Current Mission Needs

‍Before deciding what comes next, take a close look at how you use your aircraft today. Has your typical passenger count changed? Are you flying longer routes? Do you need better runway performance, more cabin space, upgraded avionics, or improved operating efficiency?

‍Many owners begin the upgrade process with a specific aircraft in mind, but the better starting point is your mission profile. A jet that made perfect sense five years ago may no longer be the best fit. By clearly defining your travel patterns, budget, range requirements, and cabin expectations, you can make a more confident decision about whether to sell, upgrade, or hold.

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This article was originally published by SOLJETS on July 5, 2026.

NAFA member Shawn Holstein, President of Holstein Aviation, shares his recent blog about fractional rebound in the market.

Following the unprecedented demand for full aircraft ownership during and immediately after the pandemic, the fractional aircraft ownership market is experiencing a strong resurgence. For those in the market for business aircraft sales, this shift is more than just a market trend—it’s a major indicator of evolving buyer behavior and a potential pathway to full ownership. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for both sellers and first-time buyers weighing their options.

WHAT’S DRIVING THE FRACTIONAL REBOUND?

Several key factors are fueling the renewed interest in fractional ownership, which offers a cost-effective alternative to owning an entire aircraft.

• Renewed Market Stability: After a period of record-high demand and tight supply, the private aviation market has normalized. Fractional providers have been able to replenish their fleets, improving availability and giving buyers confidence in their ability to meet demand.

• The Appeal of Flexibility: Fractional ownership allows buyers to access a fleet of aircraft without the full financial and operational commitment of sole ownership. It provides a more flexible solution for those with predictable flight patterns or a fluctuating need for private travel.

• A “Step-Up” from Jet Cards: Many users who first experienced private travel through jet cards during the pandemic are now looking for a more committed, cost-effective solution. Fractional ownership provides the next logical step, offering higher priority access and more stable pricing.

• Lower Initial Investment: The initial capital outlay for a fractional share is significantly less than for a full aircraft acquisition. This makes it an attractive entry point into private aviation for a broader demographic of affluent individuals and companies.

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This article was originally published by Holstein Aviation on June 12, 2026.

How can you tell why an owner is selling their aircraft, and the level of offer they will accept for it? Getting those answers might be easier than you think, as Chris Kjelgaard discovers...

Buying a pre-owned business aircraft isn’t just a matter of paying the sticker price listed in an advertisement by the seller’s agent and walking away with the aircraft’s title documents.

Contacting the seller’s agent – or, more likely, having a broker do so as your representative – is just the first step in a complex and sometimes lengthy process of communication, negotiation, compromise, physical inspection, and (occasionally) modification of the asset in question.

But at the root of all purchases of pre-owned business aircraft are three important questions to which the buyer needs to learn the answers if they’re to know that the aircraft they are pursuing is worth buying.

• What’s the seller’s motivation for selling the aircraft?
• What level – below the asking price or otherwise – will the seller agree to sell the aircraft for?
• Is the aircraft worth buying for that price – or for any price?

Research the Aircraft Seller’s Background 

Knowing something of a seller’s background and why that seller is motivated to sell their aircraft provides the first important clues the buyer needs in understanding the complete picture of the transaction. 

Luckily for the buyer, says Forrest Owens, Principal of Aviation Legal Counsel, “The [stories sellers] tell are usually apparent: they usually come to light pretty quickly. Based on the price of the deal and how urgent they are, you usually can figure out why someone is selling.” Indeed, the reasons are varied across the board. 

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This article was originally published by AvBuyer on June 10, 2026.

NAFA member Western Aviation shares their latest article on Aircraft Appraisals.

The appraisal of an aircraft is a nuanced process requiring expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of the aviation market. Every valuation reflects a combination of physical condition, operational history, technological integration, and market trends. Buyers and sellers alike benefit from professional insight into how these factors influence an aircraft's current and future value. This article outlines the critical components that impact an aircraft appraisal, offering actionable guidance for stakeholders seeking reliable assessments.

1. Evaluate the Condition of the Aircraft

1.1 Inspect Exterior and Interior Thoroughly

The physical condition of an aircraft is a primary determinant of its market value. Detailed inspections of both exterior and interior components reveal wear, cosmetic issues, and potential underlying problems that may affect safety and longevity. Even minor imperfections, such as scratches or paint chipping, may signal the need for deeper evaluation. Using advanced inspection tools and methodologies ensures a precise assessment, aligning findings with industry standards.

Interior condition also directly impacts passenger comfort, operational safety, and market perception. Evaluations include seating, cabin layout, lighting, galley systems, and overall aesthetics. Upgrades and refurbishments that enhance passenger experience often increase appraisal value. Integrating specialized aviation consulting support is essential to interpret these findings effectively, especially as approximately 50% of air traffic management projects now rely on digital and automated systems, which influence the operational relevance of the aircraft.

1.2 Review Maintenance Records

Comprehensive maintenance documentation is essential in validating an aircraft's operational reliability. Records detail routine maintenance, major overhauls, and compliance with service bulletins. Consistent and well-maintained logs positively influence aircraft appraisal outcomes, while gaps or inconsistencies can raise concerns. Appraisers closely examine adherence to mandatory schedules and regulatory compliance, which ensures airworthiness and operational predictability.

Engine and component histories are also critical. Proper documentation demonstrates foresight in managing wear and replacement schedules, contributing to the aircraft's credibility and long-term value. This review process ensures that prospective buyers and investors have confidence in the aircraft's condition.

1.3 Assess Engine and Component Health

Engine performance and the condition of major components are core factors in determining aircraft value. Appraisers analyze metrics such as fuel efficiency, power output, and reliability, considering both historical data and projected operational longevity. Well-maintained engines and components indicate readiness and safety, which directly impact market appeal. In contrast, signs of repeated repairs or declining performance can reduce appraisal values.

The availability of replacement parts and potential upgrades also informs valuations. Scarcity of parts in older models can increase operational costs, while modern systems with accessible components enhance the aircraft's usability and attractiveness. Continuous monitoring and specialized diagnostics provide data-driven insight into engine and component health, forming a robust basis for accurate aircraft appraisal.

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This article was originally published by Western Aviation on May 11, 2026.

NAFA member David G. Mayer, Partner at Shackelford, McKinley & Norton, LLP, shares his latest article on aircraft refinancing.

Cash is king, but using other people's money could be more advantageous.

A subtle shift toward refinancing business aircraft appears to be underway. Although an estimated 70% of aircraft buyers pay cash, these figures do not reflect financing trends I have noticed in loan and lease activity since 2025 amid robust demand for business aircraft. Perhaps this preference for paying cash is softening as buyers conclude that it results in lost financial opportunities, a counterproductive allocation of capital, and a diminution in accumulated wealth.

Two Categories of Refinancing  

At a high level, aircraft refinancings fall into two broad categories: secured loans and sale-leasebacks. A refinancing here refers to a loan or lease (financing) completed after the aircraft purchase date. 

In a secured loan, a lender disburses funds to an owner/borrower in one or more advances, including new aircraft progress payments. The lender secures repayment by obtaining a security interest in the purchase agreement, the aircraft and related assets under a security agreement/ mortgage.

A true sale-leaseback occurs when an owner sells the aircraft to a buyer/lessor at 100 percent of the agreed-upon sale or market value and then leases it back to the selling owner. A lease of a business aircraft under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) generally means a transfer by a lessor to a lessee of the right to possess and use the aircraft for a term in return for consideration, such as hourly, fixed, or variable rents. Lessors also fund progress payments and convert them into a lease.

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This article was originally published by AINsight on May 8, 2026.

NAFA member Amanda Applegate, Partner at Soar Aviation Law, shares her latest article on Lender's Aircraft Appraisals.

When a buyer elects to finance their aircraft, most lenders require an aircraft appraisal. Lenders will require one of two types of aircraft appraisals: 1) a desktop aircraft appraisal or 2) a physical appraisal of the aircraft.

A desktop, or remote, aircraft appraisal is based on certain aircraft information which is sent to the aircraft appraiser and the aircraft appraiser completes the appraisal based on the information received. The information usually needed to complete the desktop aircraft appraisal includes: a recent computerized aircraft maintenance report showing upcoming inspections and any past due items; aircraft make, model, and serial number; the aircraft configuration; and an aircraft specification, including current times on the airframe, engines and APU. The aircraft appraiser will also need to know if the aircraft is currently on any airframe, engine or other maintenance programs. Appraisers will also use market considerations and analyses in the appraisal.

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This article was originally published by Soar Aviation Law on April 24, 2026.

NAFA member, Western Aviation, shares one of their latest articles.

In the intricate world of aviation transactions, aircraft appraisal companies play an indispensable role. These companies provide vital services that influence buying, selling, and financing decisions for aircraft. Their assessments guide sellers in setting the appropriate price and help ensure buyers are making informed investments.

Understanding the Need for Accurate Aircraft Appraisals

Accurate appraisals form the foundation of sound financial decisions in aviation transactions. Aircraft, due to their high value and the complexities involved in their assessment, require precision and reliability in valuation. Properly conducted appraisals mitigate the risks that buyers and sellers face, providing a stable ground upon which negotiations can proceed. Without these appraisals, both parties may encounter unforeseen financial discrepancies after the transaction.

Aircraft appraisal companies bring expertise and an unbiased perspective that are necessary for these evaluations. By relying on data such as maintenance records, market demand, and technological advances, they generate reliable aircraft values. With such insights, stakeholders can negotiate prices rooted in reality rather than speculation, fostering transparency in transactions. A thorough appraisal can highlight potential issues that may require attention, allowing stakeholders to adjust their expectations accordingly.

By fostering a clear understanding of an aircraft’s worth, appraisals contribute to setting market standards. As the aviation industry evolves, the criteria for appraisal must adapt to reflect these changes. Valuation accuracy is crucial, given that aerospace technology and market conditions can fluctuate significantly. Hence, the involvement of experienced aircraft appraisal companies is pivotal in aligning aircraft values with current trends and providing context to their assessments.

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This article was originally published by Western Aviation on March 3, 2026.

NAFA member Holstein Aviation shares one of their latest blog articles.

Often generated by a tracking program like CAMP, Traxxall, or SierraTrax, a Maintenance Status Sheet is a comprehensive “report card” of an aircraft’s mechanical history and upcoming requirements. It acts as a live ledger, tracking the airframe, engines, and time-limited components against three variables:

• Flight Hours: Total time the aircraft has been in the air.

• Landings/Cycles: The number of takeoffs and landings (critical for engine and structural life).

• Calendar Time: Inspections due every 12, 24, or 48 months, regardless of usage.
   

KEY COMPONENTS OF A STATUS SHEET

When reviewing an aircraft for sale, your aircraft brokerage will typically focus on these five critical sections to determine the asset’s true market position.

1. The “Due List” (Upcoming Tasks)

This is the most scrutinized part of the report. it lists every inspection, task, and part replacement due in the next 12 to 24 months. A “heavy” inspection due in 50 hours could represent a significant discount in the final sale price for aircraft for sale.

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This article was originally published by Holstein Aviation on March 12, 2026.

NAFA member Tom Hauge, National Sales Director at Wings Insurance shares his latest article in the Plane Truth.

The aviation insurance product as a whole is pretty much universally standard amongst most aviation brokers – meaning the underwriting carriers your broker has access to are typically the same set of carriers from broker to broker (at present, there are roughly 22 or so insurers writing aviation insurance hull and liability policies here in the USA). 

Sure, smaller regional aviation insurance brokers might not be contracted with all insurance carriers in the space because they do not write enough business to permit an appointment from some carriers, but mid to large-sized brokerage firms working in the turbine class all go to the same set of carriers. 

As such, the product (quotes from the underwriting companies) theoretically should be the same regardless of which broker you use to access the specific underwriting carrier within the space.

What Actually Sets Brokers Apart?

In this sense, what sets one broker apart beyond product expertise is, frankly, service. 

Smaller brokers might be regional with one small home office open 8 am to 5 pm Mon-Fri and no personnel outside of that office. Larger brokers typically have regional offices and personnel across the USA, in most, if not all, time zones. 

This metric is particularly important when you need service over a weekend or perhaps after hours in your time zone. 

Having a broker or representative from your insurance broker’s company who responds to your phone calls or voicemails promptly is paramount.After all, you pay good money for an insurance policy and should receive outstanding service from that broker who sold you that policy (knowing you may never have to file a claim!). 

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This article was originally published by the Plane Truth, Issue #17, on February 19, 2026.

NAFA member SOLJETS shares their latest article about aircraft deals gone wrong.

Every industry has its share of cautionary tales—but in private aviation, the stakes are sky-high. This Halloween season, SOLJETS takes you behind the hangar doors to reveal the real horror stories of jet transactions gone wrong. From phantom aircraft listings and ghosted maintenance programs to missing logbooks and deals that refuse to die, these aren’t just spooky stories—they’re costly lessons in what happens when expertise is missing from the cockpit of your transaction. In this special feature, we expose the hidden dangers lurking in the private jet market—and show how SOLJETS’ proven process, proprietary data, and veteran team of pilots and brokers keep clients protected from every nightmare scenario. Because in aviation, the scariest thing isn’t turbulence—it’s buying a jet without the right guidance.

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This article was originally published by SOLJETS on October 23, 2025.