Aircraft buyer guide
FAA aircraft registration status: how to read N-number results
Read the exact FAA status label with its source date, then verify the aircraft manufacturer, model and serial number. A reserved mark or pending number change needs a different follow-up from an aircraft registration record.
By Aerovidence · Reviewed
Keep the status and the record date together
An N-number search is a way into a record, not a complete answer about the aircraft. Aerovidence uses dated source editions. A later sale, renewal, reservation or number change may not appear in that edition. Check the current FAA inquiry when the status matters to your research, and retain any disagreement instead of silently choosing the more reassuring value.
Official references: FAA Aircraft Inquiry · FAA registry field definitions. Sources checked .
Common FAA inquiry labels
The FAA definitions explain these labels. This is a reading aid for selected inquiry terms, not a complete list of numeric database codes or a determination that an aircraft may operate.
| FAA label | What the label describes |
|---|---|
| In Question | Information in the aircraft record may make the registration certificate ineffective if confirmed. |
| Revoked | The registration certificate was revoked through FAA enforcement. |
| Pending Number Change | The FAA has issued an assignment authorizing a new registration mark for the aircraft. |
| Reserved N-Number | A mark held for later use, or the new authorized mark when shown with a pending number change. |
Official references: FAA registry field definitions. Sources checked .
A reserved mark is not a verified aircraft match
The FAA provides assigned/reserved and available-number inquiry routes. A reservation concerns the mark; it does not by itself establish the manufacturer, model, serial or history of an aircraft. Aerovidence does not determine whether an N-number is available to reserve. Follow the FAA route for availability, and use documented airframe identity before requesting an aircraft report.
Official references: FAA N-Numbers · FAA registry field definitions. Sources checked .
Turn a changed status into a specific follow-up
Keep both observations when a dated report and the current official inquiry disagree. Do not transfer historical events to a new holder of the same mark.
- Save the exact status, source date and official record link.
- Compare manufacturer, model and serial with the aircraft documents.
- Check documented former or pending marks and their dates.
- Resolve conflicting identity or registration details with the relevant official source or qualified adviser.
Use the aircraft report within its coverage
The free lookup shows available registration and dated event evidence. The full report adds available source context and downloads and is also free during launch. Registration does not establish airworthiness, clear title, installed equipment or AD compliance. An empty event section is not proof that damage never occurred. Missing, withheld or conflicting fields remain unresolved.
Check the public records first
How Aerovidence handles evidence · Sources and coverage limits
Continue your research
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