AIRCRAFT SALES

Whether you represent a large corporation, a closely-held business concern, a wealthy individual, an investor, or any other individual looking to fly private, our commercial transaction attorneys assist clients with the leasing, purchasing/selling or charter of aircraft, as well as hangars, yachts, and other commercial real estate interests. 

There are numerous reasons why our clients acquire aircraft. For example: geographically diverse business interests; frequent travel on short notice; travel to areas lacking adequate commercial airline service or away from major markets; provincial vacation homes; security/privacy concerns; etc.

We help guide our clients through aircraft purchase and sale transactions, addressing such important issues as:

• Reviewing client needs when determining appropriate aircraft

  • Do you have predictable usage?

  • What is your flexibility on passenger loads?

  • Do you want long-range versus stopping to refuel?

  • Calculating Business vs. Personal Usage

• Conducting Due Diligence

  • Aircraft title

  • FAA Airworthiness File Review

  • Historical records search and review

• Drafting and Negotiating Purchase Agreements

  • Letters of Intent

  • Pre-purchase inspection

  • Establishing Escrow

  • Warranties and Representations

  • Insurance Needs

  • Closing and Delivery

  • Sales & Use Tax Ramifications

• Discussing Ownership Models

  • Leasing vs. Ownership

  • Fractional vs. Joint ownership

  • Chartering (“pay-as-you-go”) and Jet cards

• Concerns regarding Nationality and Registration

  • Forming Holding Companies

  • Federal Excise Taxes

  • Non-Citizen Trusts / Foreign Ownership

  • Deregistrations for Export / Import and Registration Application Process

  • Avoiding the “Corporate Flight Department” pitfall

• Aircraft Management Decisions

  • Management Agreements

  • Crew Services Agreements

  • Dry Lease Charter Agreements

  • Interchange and/or Co-Ownership Agreements

  • Engine leasing / Engine Service Plans