Aircraft Pre-Purchase Inspection: What to Check Before You Buy

Why a Pre-Purchase Inspection is Essential

An aircraft is a significant investment, and hidden problems can be extremely expensive to fix. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by an independent, qualified engineer protects you from nasty surprises after the deal is done.

Choosing Your Inspector

Hire an engineer who is:

Independent of the seller
Experienced with the specific aircraft type
A CAA-approved Part 66 or Part M engineer, or a licensed LAA inspector for Permit aircraft

Expect to pay £500–£1,500 for a comprehensive inspection, depending on the aircraft type and location.

Airframe Checks

External skin condition — look for dents, cracks, and corrosion
Control surfaces — check for free and correct movement
Landing gear — inspect for wear, cracks, and proper operation
Wing spar condition — critical structural component
Fuselage interior — check for corrosion, especially in hidden areas
Windows and canopy — crazing or cracks

Engine Inspection

Compression test — all cylinders should be within limits (typically 60/80 or better)
Oil analysis — send a sample to a lab to check for metal particles
Oil consumption — ask the seller about consumption per hour
Time since overhaul — how many hours until the next major overhaul?
AD compliance — ensure all mandatory Airworthiness Directives have been completed

Propeller

Check for nicks, cracks, or erosion on blade edges
Verify it's within its service life or overhaul period
For constant-speed props, test the governor operation

Avionics and Instruments

Test all radios — COM and NAV
Check the transponder — does it pass a bench test?
GPS and autopilot functionality (if fitted)
Engine instruments — verify accuracy
ELT — is it in date?

Logbooks and Paperwork

Complete and continuous maintenance records
Valid ARC (Airworthiness Review Certificate)
All ADs signed off
Weight and balance report
Equipment list
Registration certificate

The Test Flight

After the ground inspection, always conduct a test flight. Pay attention to:

Engine temperatures and pressures in the normal range
Unusual vibrations or noises
Trim and handling characteristics
All systems operating correctly in flight

Red Flags

Incomplete or missing logbooks
Seller refusing an independent inspection
Unusually low price for the type — if it seems too good to be true, it probably is
Evidence of undisclosed damage repairs