Buying a plane is exciting! But before you sign any papers, you need to know what you’re really getting. An aircraft pre-purchase inspection helps you find problems before they become expensive surprises. It’s the smart step that separates a happy new owner from a frustrated one stuck with unexpected repairs.

Most U.S. general aviation planes are over 50 years old, so checking age, care, and records is critical before you buy.

Every airplane tells a story through its parts, paperwork, and history. A careful inspection helps you read that story clearly. You’ll know if the plane is safe, what it might need soon, and how well it’s been cared for. 

This guide explains what happens during this process and why it matters for every buyer.

What Is a Pre-Purchase Inspection?

A pre-purchase inspection (often called a PPI or prebuy) is a careful look at a used aircraft before money changes hands. Think of it as a detailed health check for a plane. The goal is to make sure the aircraft is airworthy, safe, and worth the price.

During this inspection process, an experienced A&P mechanic or technician checks everything from the airframe to the engine and avionics. They review the airplane’s records and run through a detailed checklist. It’s all about finding any airworthiness issue that could affect safety, performance, or cost.

Here’s what usually happens:

• Records review: The mechanic studies the logbook, Form 337 records for major repairs or modifications, and any airworthiness directive from the FAA. These show what work has been done and what still needs attention.
   
• Physical inspection: This step covers the airframe, landing gear, engine, and all major systems. The mechanic looks for leaks, corrosion, loose parts, or hidden damage.
   
• Systems check: The avionics (radios, GPS, instruments) are tested for accuracy and function.
   
• Advanced tools: A borescope might be used to look inside the engine without taking it apart. This can reveal wear, cracks, or buildup.

The inspection program follows the aircraft’s make and model, often based on the maintenance manual from the OEM or an MRO. Some buyers also request a thorough review equal to an annual inspection, especially if they plan a long-term aircraft purchase.

When the inspection is complete, the mechanic lists any discrepancies found. These are things that need repair or further review before calling the aircraft fully airworthy.

If something serious comes up, like engine damage or missing records, the buyer and seller can decide how to rectify it—maybe the seller agrees to fix it, or the buyer uses it to lower the price. The goal is to make a clear, informed choice.

A proper pre-buy inspection can save weeks of downtime, prevent unexpected costs, and keep a plane from going AOG (Aircraft on Ground). It’s one of the most important steps in any aviation deal.

Why Pre-Purchase Inspection Is a Must Before You Buy

Skipping a pre-buy inspection can be one of the costliest mistakes a buyer can make. Even an airplane that looks clean can hide issues that affect safety or value. A professional inspection is your chance to catch them early.

When you inspect a plane before buying, you’re protecting yourself from hidden problems. These might include corrosion in the airframe, an engine near overhaul, or missing airworthiness paperwork. Some of these repairs can cost thousands of dollars and keep the plane grounded for months.

Here’s why a pre-buy is so important:

• Safety: Finding airworthiness issues before flying keeps you and your passengers safe.
   
• Cost control: A small repair caught now can stop a much bigger bill later.
   
• Value protection: A good inspection confirms if the price matches the plane’s true condition.

During the inspection, the mechanic might also check for major modifications or unapproved parts. They verify the inspection program meets FAA standards and confirm that past work matches the maintenance manual.

The inspection helps both sides — the buyer and seller. If the aircraft is in good shape, it builds trust. If problems are found, everyone knows what needs to be done. The seller can choose to fix the issues or adjust the deal.

If big repairs or discrepancies found mean more work than expected, the buyer might request a quote for needed fixes or walk away. Either way, the inspection gives the buyer control and clear information.

Organizations like AOPA remind owners that a pre-buy is essential for protecting airworthiness and resale value. Without one, the buyer could face hidden damage or costly compliance gaps with airworthiness directives.

Think of it this way: planes age differently based on how they’re flown, stored, and maintained. A thorough inspection helps you see how this particular airplane has been treated. It’s the best step toward a confident, informed aircraft purchase.

Who Does the Inspection and Where

A pre-purchase inspection should always be handled by someone independent — not the seller’s regular shop. The best choice is a trusted A&P or certified MRO service center familiar with your aircraft’s make and model. They understand the systems, common wear points, and airworthiness details specific to that type.

Here’s how the process usually works:

• Finding a qualified professional: The buyer selects a licensed mechanic or technician trained in aircraft maintenance. For complex jets or turboprops, a factory OEM or MRO facility might be best.
   
• Choosing a location: Inspections often take place at a service center, sometimes near the seller’s base. The buyer usually pays to move the plane there if needed.
   
• Defining the scope: Before work begins, the buyer and seller agree on what to inspect — from a quick review to a full annual inspection.

A good inspection includes a written checklist and a report listing any discrepancies found. The mechanic should also review the engine program, landing gear, avionics, and other major systems for airworthiness and performance.

Every part of the inspection process is guided by the FAA rules and the manufacturer’s maintenance manual. That means nothing is skipped, from corrosion checks to major repair documentation.

Once the physical inspection is done, the results help decide what happens next. If the plane is mostly airworthy, the deal can move forward. If problems show up, the buyer can rectify them before closing, request a quote for repairs, or renegotiate.

Choosing a skilled technician and reliable shop helps avoid downtime and missed details. With the right person in charge, the inspection becomes more than paperwork — it’s your best protection against risk.

Every plane, even a new one, deserves a careful look before changing hands. The inspection gives confidence to both sides and helps keep every aircraft flying safely for years to come.

What to Expect During an Aircraft Pre-Purchase Inspection

When you’re planning to buy a plane, the inspection of the aircraft is one of the most important steps in the whole transaction. It helps you understand the true condition of an aircraft before you agree to pay for it. 

Every type of aircraft—from a small single-engine plane to a large business jet—goes through this process a little differently. Still, the goal stays the same: to find out what’s working well, what needs attention, and what might cost you expenses later.

The following is a calm, detailed walk through what usually happens during a pre-purchase inspection.

The Setup

First, the buyer and seller decide where and how the inspection will happen. The shop or existing mechanic that does your regular work shouldn’t be the one to perform the inspection. It’s better to choose a non-biased professional or service center with no connection to either side. This keeps everything fair and transparent.

The shop will often ask for key documents before they start. These include the flight manual, maintenance logs, and other records that show the history of the aircraft. These papers tell a lot about past repairs, upgrades, and ownership. The mechanic uses them to plan what needs extra attention during the physical checks.

The Paperwork Review

Before anyone opens a panel or starts an engine, the first part of the inspection happens at a desk. The mechanic looks through all the logbooks and records to confirm that everything matches what’s advertised. This includes:

• Maintenance logs and inspection records
   
• Work orders showing parts replaced or alteration made
   
• FAA Airworthiness Directives that apply to the type of aircraft
   
• Any reports from the previous owner or repair stations

By reviewing these papers, the mechanic can spot missing entries or gaps in the timeline. For example, if the logbook skips a few years, it could mean work was done without proper documentation. That’s a red flag. Missing or incomplete paperwork can delay your registration, limit resale value, or even affect safety.

The Physical Inspection

Next comes the hands-on part. This is where the mechanic or inspection team looks at the general condition of the airplane. The inspection is usually done in stages, starting with larger systems and moving toward finer details.

Here’s what they often check:

• Exterior and structure: The mechanic looks at the skin of the plane for cracks, dents, or delamination—that’s when bonded layers start to separate. They also inspect for corrosion or worn rivets.
   
• Wings and control surfaces: Every hinge and connection gets checked for looseness or uneven wear.
   
• Landing gear: The tires, struts, and brakes are reviewed for leaks, wear, and age.
   
• Engine and propeller: The team runs compression tests, checks oil filters, and may use a borescope camera to see inside. They also look for leaks, unusual wear, or damage that could affect performance.
   
• Avionics and systems: Radios, GPS, lights, and gauges are tested to be sure they function properly.
   
• Cabin and interior: Seats, controls, and safety gear are reviewed to make sure everything meets standards and comfort expectations.

Each finding is recorded. If anything seems off, the mechanic notes it and explains how serious it is. Some problems that might appear are small and easy to fix, while others could require deeper repairs or parts replacement.

Special Checks for Older Aircraft

The age of the aircraft matters a lot. An older plane usually needs extra attention in certain areas. Older wiring, hoses, or seals may need replacement, and corrosion can be more common. Some older models also have limited parts availability, which can add cost or time if repairs are needed.

For newer airplanes, the inspection focuses more on verifying software, avionics updates, and that all warranty work is complete. The mechanic also checks that any alteration done to the plane followed FAA-approved methods.

What the Results Mean

When the inspection is finished, the mechanic gives a full report. It lists every finding, from small cosmetic details to major mechanical issues. The report might include photos, cost estimates, and notes about what’s urgent.

This report helps you decide what to do next. If the aircraft may need major repairs or shows a poor maintenance record, you can step back before signing anything. If the issues are minor, you can ask the seller to fix them or adjust the price.

A good inspection can reveal issues that weren’t visible before—like hidden corrosion, minor leaks, or incomplete paperwork. These findings aren’t always deal-breakers, but they help you make smart choices.

The best part? You’ll know exactly what you’re getting, and you can plan future maintenance more easily. That’s peace of mind every pilot deserves.

Aircraft Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Every aircraft should be inspected carefully before it’s sold. A well-planned checklist makes sure nothing is missed. 

Here’s what a more detailed inspection may include:

1. Documentation Review

A complete record set is vital for confirming airworthiness. The inspector should check:

• Flight manual for current revisions
   
• Full maintenance logs and any missing pages
   
• FAA Airworthiness Directives that apply to this model
   
• STCs (Supplemental Type Certificates) or other approved alteration records
   
• Repair and modification reports from certified facilities
   
• Ownership and registration papers confirming who the previous owner was

If anything is missing or looks unclear, the mechanic should ask questions before moving on.

2. Exterior and Structural Condition

This step focuses on how the airplane looks and feels on the outside. The mechanic will:

• Look for signs of delamination or cracked paint
   
• Examine rivets, seams, and fasteners for looseness
   
• Check for dents, scratches, or corrosion under panels
   
• Verify any alteration was done correctly and documented
   
• Assess the overall general condition of the exterior

Minor flaws can often be fixed easily, but deeper structural issues can mean larger expenses later.

3. Engine and Powerplant Inspection

The engine is the heart of the aircraft, and it deserves careful attention. The mechanic will:

• Review engine hours and last overhaul date
   
• Check oil filters for metal particles
   
• Examine hoses, seals, and connections for leaks
   
• Perform compression tests to measure performance
   
• Use a borescope to inspect internal parts
   
• Confirm that engine mount bolts are secure

If the engine is nearing overhaul time, that can greatly affect the sale price or negotiation.

4. Interior and Systems Check

Inside the cabin, inspectors review comfort and function:

• Test all controls and safety harnesses
   
• Verify that electrical systems and lighting work
   
• Confirm that cabin materials meet fire safety standards
   
• Inspect seats and flooring for wear or damage

They also test avionics—radios, transponders, navigation systems—to confirm accuracy and reliability.

5. Operational Testing

Once everything else checks out, the plane might go on a short ground or flight test. This helps the mechanic verify handling and system performance under real conditions. They’ll watch for vibrations, strange noises, or irregular readings. Any unusual finding gets added to the report.

6. Final Report and Recommendations

After all testing and paperwork review, you’ll receive a summary. This outlines the condition of the aircraft, lists every issue found, and includes estimated costs for each fix.

The mechanic may also suggest timelines for future maintenance or note optional upgrades. If the plane passes all checks and shows proper documentation, the report will confirm that the aircraft is airworthy and ready for purchase.

7. Decision Time

With the report in hand, you can make an informed choice. You might move forward confidently, ask the seller to fix issues, or choose to walk away. Having this information gives you full control of the transaction.

The inspection helps ensure that what you want to buy truly meets your expectations and is safe to fly.

A thorough pre-purchase inspection is your best protection against surprise costs or safety problems later. It may take time, but it’s worth every hour. When you understand the full condition of an aircraft, you make smarter choices, avoid unnecessary risks, and enjoy the skies with confidence.

Conclusion

An aircraft pre-purchase inspection gives peace of mind before buying any airplane. It tells you what shape the aircraft is in, what might need fixing, and how well it’s been cared for. For a buyer, it’s the difference between a smart deal and an expensive lesson. Always work with qualified professionals and take time to review every detail before closing.

If you’re ready to learn more about safe, confident aircraft ownership, visit Flying411 today — your trusted resource for aviation insights and buying tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a pre-purchase inspection include?

It covers the airplane’s records, structure, engine, systems, and avionics. The mechanic checks for corrosion, repairs, and signs of wear.

How long does a pre-buy inspection take?

Most inspections take two to seven days, depending on the aircraft’s size and condition.

Who pays for the inspection?

Usually, the buyer pays, but the cost can be shared if both agree in writing before the inspection starts.

Can I skip the inspection for newer aircraft?

No. Even new or low-hour planes can have paperwork errors or early issues that affect airworthiness.

Where can I find a qualified mechanic?

Look for an independent A&P, MRO, or OEM service center experienced with your aircraft’s make and model.