Aircraft ownership research

Questions before a pre-purchase inspection.

Published October 10, 2026 · Original research guide

Prepare your questions before committing to a particular aircraft.

Choose an independent professional

Ask who will perform the inspection, what experience they have with the model and whether any relationship could affect their independence.

Agree on the scope

Ask what will be examined, what is excluded, what records are needed and how findings will be documented. A checklist does not guarantee condition.

Review the records

Ask which maintenance records are available, where gaps exist and what further review is required. Do not treat seller statements as verified facts.

Clarify the transaction

Discuss title and ownership questions, authority to sell, contingencies and the steps needed before payment with qualified advisers.

Decide how findings affect your next step

Ask how discrepancies will be reviewed and which decisions require additional expertise. Agree on those steps before the inspection begins.

Further reading: AOPA purchase inspection checklist.