• As mentioned earlierin 'Step 3' always make sure you have an independent licensed aircraft engineer carry out an inspection of the aircraft and it's log books prior to purchasing the aircraft. To minimise the expense, we recommend you find an aircraft engineer near the aircraft's location to perform the inspection. A number of aircraft engineers advertise their services on this website; click here to find an aircraft engineer and inspection services

• However, if you can't find one there try contacting an aircraft engineer's association in your region and they'll help you locate one for you, general they are very helpful:-
• AustralianLicenced Aircraft Engineers Association - click here
• Aircraft Engineering Association of New Zealand - click here
• Recreational Aviation Australia- click here
• Sports Aircraft Association of New Zealand - click here

• Make sure your engineer provides you a written report containing information about any accidents or incidents the aircraft has had; the report should include notations of about any modifications or repairs carried out to the aircraft.If something doesn't make sense to you, ask questions or get a second opinion.

• Once your engineer gives the aircraft a thumbs up, it’s time to have the aircraft inspected – always best to have the same engineer travel to inspect the aircraft personally however, if that can’t be managed then you could use another local aircraft engineer to do it; don’t forget to provide a copy of your report. You need to ensure the whole inspection process remains independent; then, if everything’s kosher; then you might just have bought yourself a new aircraft.

• However, if something undesirable does comes up in the inspection, it doesn't necessarily mean the sale can'tgo ahead. It just means both sides need to come to an agreement on a solution. The seller may opt to fix the problem or renegotiate the price, either way a solution is often possible that will make both sides happy. Remember, you are buying a used aircraft, don't expect it to be in perfect condition.

• If you’re buying an aircraft through an aircraft broker or dealer you’ll no doubt be provided copies of the aircraft’s records such as the maintenance release and other relevant documentation tracking the aircraft’s history.

• Log Books : -The aircraft’s log books are the most important documents of all because it is in those logs the complete history of the aircraft is recorded. In fact, an aircraft without log books is ‘suspect’ and becomes difficult to sell.

• Log book inspections should to be carried out by a professional; usually the initial log book inspection can be done without having to ‘eye-ball’ the aircraft so, if you can manage to persuade the seller to release the log books to your preferred aircraft engineer for inspection, that will save you a lot of time and money.
  
  Each aircraft can have several different types of log books such as:-

• Airframe log book records everything to do with the aircraft’s air-frame including such things as;

• airframe inspections
• tests
• repairs
• alterations
• airworthiness directives
• service bulletins
• and equipment additions
• removals or exchanges
• altimeter/static system checks

• Engine(s) log book : is designed to keep track of

• engine inspections
• part replacements
• overhauls
• tests
• repairs
• modifications
• alterations
• airworthiness directives,
• manufacturers' mandatory service bulletins,
• removal or exchange

• Propeller log book : will record data for

• hub and blade inspections
• repairs and alterations
• airworthiness directives
• factory bulletins
• all maintenance should be complete and well documented

• It doesn’t matter whether your new aircraft will be of a typical GA fixed wing type or a helicopter; or a sports aircraft resisted with RA-Aus or the SAAA because every aircraft will have a set of mandatory log books that are designed to ensure compliance with the regulations.

• You can also do a little research on your own: when buying an aircraft the owner/seller should be willing to provide you with all the information you request such as details of the previous owner – why not make a call to check things out? Gather all information related to your aircraft including, a complete list of specifications, photos, maintenance history, damage history, etc, because knowing the history of an aircraft is essential.

• If the aircraft has been at a flying school or club in the past, why not give them call as well?  - Remember, not everyone is honest and it is you and your family's life at stake when you're up in the air, so check things out! 

• One great tip recommended by My Charles Pratten, Managing Director of Civil Aviation Insurance is to send a standard letter around to all the leading aviation specialist insurers in your region and ask if they have any record of claim damage relating to the aircraft – most will reply.

After helping hundreds of aircraft owners sell their aircraft, helicopters and aviation accessories online, we’re been able to establish some helpful tips on how best to advertise your aircraft for sale; click here to get tips on how to sell your aircraft.