Aircraft prebuy records checklist

Create one evidence pack

Use this as a research organizer with your mechanic and transaction advisers. Agree on the inspection scope and required documents for the particular aircraft; the checklist does not establish airworthiness or approve a purchase.

Turn missing records into named actions

A row marked unknown should produce a request, not a favorable score. Keep the original file or official reference, the date reviewed, the open question and the responsible reviewer together.

1. List periods for which maintenance records have not been supplied.
2. Ask the mechanic to reconcile repairs and configuration with the aircraft.
3. Ask the transaction adviser how title interests and releases will be checked.
4. Before closing, review every unresolved item and the evidence supplied in response.

Keep public and private evidence distinct

FAA aircraft records and maintenance records serve different purposes. Public registry or event results do not substitute for the aircraft’s retained maintenance documentation. Use the FAA maintenance-record guidance to discuss what records should be present for the aircraft and its operation.

Official references: FAA aircraft records · FAA AC 43-9D: maintenance records. Sources checked 15 October 2026.

Start with a free public report

Aerovidence can help you gather dated registration facts and covered event references before requesting private documents. Save the report edition and its source limits with your checklist. The full report is free during launch; an independent inspection and title work remain separate tasks.

Check the public records first

How Aerovidence handles evidence · Sources and coverage limits

Continue your research

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