How to
Buy an Aircraft

Step 1:
Choose the Make/Model
that is Right for You

Step 2:
Get Pre-Qualified
for Financing

Step 3
Shop Around

Step 4
Research Your Aircraft

Step 5
Put Deposit on Plane/
Open Escrow Account

Step 6
Pre-Purchase Inspection

Step 7
Verify the Aircraft
has a Clean Title

Step 8
Get a Quality
Insurance Policy

Step 9
Arrange Final Payment

Step 10
Closing Paperwork

Step 11
Pick Up your plane/
Schedule Delivery

Printable Version

Aircraft Buyer's Checklist

Step 10:   Closing Paperwork
If you buy an aircraft with the assistance of an aircraft broker, that broker will usually prepare and file all the necessary paperwork for you. Just one of the many advantages of using a qualified aircraft broker.


Bill of Sale: A signed copy of the Bill of Sale should be retained by both the buyer and the seller for their records and another copy must be sent to the FAA for filing.

Federal Aircraft Registration: A signed copy of the registration must be sent to the FAA along with a check for $5.00 to cover the filing fee. The pink copy of the registration will serve as your temporary federal registration and must remain in your plane until you receive your permanent registration in the mail.

Release of Lien: If there is a lien on the aircraft, the proper release of lien paperwork must also be filed with the FAA.

State Registration: Each state has different regulations concerning aircraft registration. You should check with your local flight school to see what the requirements are in your state.

Check with your financing institution or escrow agent to see what paperwork they will be filing with the FAA. Often they will handle all the closing paperwork for you.

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