The Real Process of Buying or Selling an Airplane

The Real Process of Buying or Selling an Airplane

A Complete Guide by Your Aircraft Broker in Orlando, FL

Buying or selling an airplane should feel exciting — not overwhelming. At Alora Aviation, we guide current and future aircraft owners through their transaction to achieve the best possible outcome for them.

With 14 years of aviation experience, our role is to give you clear information so you can move forward with confidence.

As an aircraft broker based in Orlando, FL, we’re strategically located in one of the strongest aviation markets in the country. Florida leads all U.S. states in business aviation flights (1.7M in 2023), ranks second in aerospace establishments, and is the #1 state for MRO operations. It’s also a global hub for flight training — with nearly 21% of the world’s pilots earning their certificates here. With international connectivity through Orlando International Airport (MCO) and a robust aerospace workforce, Central Florida offers an ideal environment for successful aircraft transactions.

Whether you’re searching for the right aircraft or preparing to sell a valued asset, here’s how the real process works:

How to Buy an Aircraft — A Smart, Supported Process

Buying an aircraft is an investment of time, money, and trust. Here’s how we help keep the process both exciting and safe:

1️Needs Analysis — Understanding Your Mission

Our process starts with the most important question:What do you need the aircraft to do for you?

We consider:

• Typical destinations and range

• Passenger and baggage requirements

• IFR vs. VFR missions

• Runway length and hangar availability

• Operating budget and fuel efficiency

• Ownership style (full, partnership, club)

This helps eliminate mismatches early — avoiding both overspending and performance frustration.

2️Market Research & Aircraft Search

We explore the market to identify the best options that fit your mission.

We compare:

• Engine hours and maintenance programs

• Avionics upgrades and regulatory compliance

• Corrosion or damage history

• Cabin condition and upgrade costs

• Forecasted cost of ownership

• Model-specific resale value

Then we present a short list of top candidates so you can make an informed choice.

3️Logbook Review & Due Diligence

Logbooks hold the aircraft’s entire history. We review:

• Inspection continuity

• Airworthiness directive compliance

• STCs and supporting documentation

• Major repairs, corrosion treatment, or downtime

• Engine overhauls and component tracking

If the paperwork isn’t right — the aircraft isn’t right.

4️Offer Strategy & Negotiation

Once you’re ready to move forward, we help you:

• Establish a fair offer using market data

• Structure timelines and contingencies

• Protect your deposit through escrow

• Maintain strong negotiation leverage

Price matters — but terms matter just as much.

5️Title, Escrow & FAA Documentation

Aircraft transactions include strict regulatory requirements.

We coordinate:

• FAA title search

• Lien and ownership verification

• Secure escrow account management

• Registration and contract review

Accuracy here ensures a clean and secure transfer of ownership.

6️Pre-Buy Inspection

This is the most critical step.

A qualified maintenance facility inspects the aircraft:

• Engine borescope and compression checks

• Corrosion and structural integrity

• Avionics and system performance

• Logbook verification

• AD and SB compliance

If issues are discovered, we help renegotiate — or walk away confidently.

A major repair caught early can save tens of thousands of dollars.

7️Closing, Financing & Insurance Support

We help streamline:

• Aviation-focused financing options

• Insurance based on aircraft use

• Sales tax considerations

• Secure transfer of funds

Once complete — you become the official owner.

8️Delivery, Training & Continued Support

Our services continue after closing:

• Ferry flight coordination

• Transition training support

• Introductions to trusted maintenance shops

• Hangar and registration guidance

A smooth transition sets you up for years of enjoyable flying.

How to Sell an Aircraft — Protecting Your Equity & Time

Selling your aircraft is about maximizing value efficiently and safely.

1️Pricing Strategy Based on the Real Market

We analyze:

• Comparable sales

• Avionics modernization

• Maintenance currency and future costs

• Market demand for your make/model

Proper pricing increases legitimate buyers and reduces days on market.

2️Aircraft Presentation & Records Organization

Buyers want clarity. We help you present:

• High-quality photos

• Organized logbook summaries

• Recent maintenance highlights

• Transparency around upgrades

Trust leads to stronger offers.

3️Global Marketing Exposure

We reach qualified buyers through:

• Major listing platforms

• Established broker networks

• International aviation channels

The best buyer may not be local — or even domestic.

4️Buyer Screening & Showings

We filter inquiries to ensure:

• Legitimate purchasing ability

• Serious intent

• Secure and efficient showings

Your time — and aircraft — deserve protection.

5️Negotiation & Inspection Management

We help you:

• Evaluate and counter offers strategically

• Respond appropriately to inspection findings

• Prevent delays and unnecessary concessions

We guide communication so your deal keeps moving.

6️Closing & Aircraft Transfer

We assist with the final steps:

• Escrow coordination

• Bill of sale and FAA registration

• Funds transfer and delivery arrangements

A strong finish maintains peace of mind.

Why Work With an Aircraft Broker?

Because every step above has financial and operational risk. A great broker helps you:

• Avoid expensive surprises

• Maximize your aircraft’s value

• Reduce delays and paperwork errors

• Navigate regulations and escrow safely

Aircraft brokerage isn’t heavily regulated — experience is your protection.

Why Alora Aviation?

We support owners and buyers with:

• 14+ years of real aviation experience

• Operational understanding from flying and training

• Negotiation expertise from real estate transactions

• International, bilingual communication (English & Spanish)

No pressure. No shortcuts.Just honest guidance.

Let’s Talk About Your Aircraft Goals

Whether you’re upgrading, exploring your first purchase, or planning to sell —we’re here to guide you with clarity.

Contact us today — let’s explore the best options for you.