Pre-Purchase Aircraft Inspection: What Buyers Must Know
Buying a pre-owned aircraft is one of the most significant investments you’ll make as a pilot or fleet operator. Unlike buying a car, where a visual check and a test drive might suffice, purchasing an aircraft without a professional pre-purchase inspection is a risk no serious buyer should take. Hidden corrosion, undisclosed damage history, or unresolved airworthiness directives can turn an exciting acquisition into a costly ordeal. A thorough pre-purchase aircraft inspection protects your investment — and your safety.
1. What Is a Pre-Purchase Aircraft Inspection?
A pre-purchase aircraft inspection is an independent technical evaluation performed by a certified maintenance team before the sale of a pre-owned aircraft closes. It is not the same as an annual inspection — its purpose is to give the buyer a complete, unbiased picture of the aircraft’s current condition, maintenance history, and any existing or anticipated issues.
The inspection is typically paid for by the buyer and conducted by a neutral third party — ideally, an FAA Part 145-certified shop with direct experience on the airframe being evaluated.
2. What Does the Inspection Cover?
A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection goes well beyond a visual walkaround. At Hangar Six, the evaluation is tailored to the specific airframe and typically includes:
- Airframe structural review — skins, control surfaces, and corrosion assessment
- Engine and powerplant condition, including borescope inspection
- Avionics systems check and compliance verification
- Review of logbooks, maintenance records, and AD compliance
- Landing gear, hydraulics, and fuel system inspection
- Interior and pressurization systems
- Review of any open maintenance items or deferred work
The goal is to surface every issue — big or small — before the deal closes, so the buyer can negotiate accordingly or walk away with confidence.
3. Which Aircraft Types Does Hangar Six Inspect?
Hangar Six has hands-on experience evaluating a wide range of popular business and personal aircraft, including:
King Air Series, Citation, Pilatus PC-12, Learjet, Hawker/Beechjet, Phenom, Cessna Caravan, Piper Malibu/Meridian, Baron/Bonanza, and Cirrus.
Each inspection is customized to the airframe — because a King Air and a Cirrus SR22 require very different levels of scrutiny in different areas.
4. On-Site vs. Ferry Inspection — What’s the Difference?
If possible, having the aircraft flown to Hangar Six at KGMU for the inspection is the most thorough option. The team has full access to tools, lifts, and equipment that allow for a deeper evaluation.
In cases where ferrying the aircraft isn’t practical, Hangar Six can accommodate on-site inspections. Either way, the team brings the same level of expertise and documentation to every evaluation.
5. What Happens After the Inspection?
After the inspection is complete, Hangar Six provides a detailed written report outlining findings, recommended repairs, and any airworthiness concerns. This report becomes a powerful negotiating tool — allowing the buyer to request repairs, adjust the purchase price, or make a fully informed go/no-go decision.
If issues are identified, Hangar Six can often address them directly, saving the buyer the hassle of coordinating with a separate shop after closing.
The Smart Move Before Any Aircraft Purchase
A pre-purchase aircraft inspection is not an expense — it’s an investment in certainty. Whether you’re buying your first turboprop or adding to a fleet, knowing exactly what you’re getting before you sign protects your money, your schedule, and your safety.
Hangar Six is located at Greenville Municipal Airport (KGMU), East Ramp. Contact the team at (864) 982-3893 or visit hangarsix.aero to schedule your pre-purchase inspection today.
Pre-Purchase Aircraft Inspection FAQ
Is a pre-purchase inspection required by the FAA?
No, the FAA does not legally require a pre-purchase inspection before buying an aircraft. However, it is strongly recommended by every aviation professional and lender. Skipping it means accepting unknown risk — from hidden corrosion and undisclosed damage to unresolved airworthiness directives.
Who pays for the pre-purchase inspection — buyer or seller?
In most cases, the buyer pays for the pre-purchase inspection. It is your investment and your protection. Some sellers agree to split the cost as part of negotiations, but the inspection should always be coordinated by the buyer to ensure full independence and objectivity.
How long does a pre-purchase aircraft inspection take?
It depends on the aircraft type and the scope of the evaluation. A light piston aircraft typically takes one to two days. A turboprop or light jet can take two to four days or more, especially if logbook review and borescope work are included. Hangar Six provides a clear timeline before starting.
Can the seller's maintenance shop perform the inspection?
It is strongly advised against. A pre-purchase inspection should always be performed by a neutral, independent shop — not the facility that has been maintaining the aircraft. Hangar Six operates as a fully independent evaluator with no prior relationship to the seller.
What if the inspection finds problems?
That’s exactly the point. Findings from the inspection give the buyer leverage to renegotiate the price, require the seller to make repairs before closing, or walk away from a bad deal entirely. A clean report, on the other hand, gives you full confidence to move forward.
Does Hangar Six only inspect aircraft based in Greenville, SC?
No. While Hangar Six is based at KGMU in Greenville, SC, buyers can arrange to have the aircraft ferried to the facility for a thorough on-site inspection. On-location evaluations can also be arranged depending on the situation.
What aircraft types does Hangar Six evaluate?
Hangar Six inspects King Air Series, Citation, Pilatus PC-12, Learjet, Hawker/Beechjet, Phenom, Cessna Caravan, Piper Malibu/Meridian, Baron/Bonanza, and Cirrus — among others. Contact the team to confirm availability for your specific airframe.