Red Flags to Watch Out For When Seeking Out an Aircraft for Sale

Red flags let you know when something is amiss and that you should change directions. Although the used private aircraft industry is largely defined by honesty and fairness, there are pockets within the market with their share of red flags.

Your ability to detect a less-than-desirable deal has likely served you well. However, you may not know what to expect when it comes to the private jet industry. You may find that you need to remove yourself from a transaction because something doesn’t seem quite right.

To save you from these pitfalls, watch for red flags when seeking a personal aircraft for sale. In the event you come across one, look for an excellent alternative instead - we’ll show you how.

Don’t Settle for Anything Less than Comprehensive Service in the Private Jet Industry

After you’ve begun your research to find a private aircraft, you’ll likely recognize that there is enough information on the internet to last you a lifetime. You’ve entered into the arena where businesses fight for your attention, and this can be overwhelming. Your goal now is to find a way to cut through the noise and find a relationship that will grow into an authentic, meaningful partnership and, ultimately, a sale.

As you encounter the many dealers who are selling used private aircraft, here are ten qualities you should be wary of:

1. Misleading information about inventory: If you find that the aircraft mentioned on the dealer’s site is suddenly no longer available or doesn’t match the specs you were promised, you should be concerned about this sudden change of information.

2. Lack of information about your dealer: Think twice if it’s difficult to find more information about who your dealer is associated with.

3. An aggressive sales approach: If you don’t feel like you have choices or options, and you’re being nudged toward a transaction you’re uncertain about, you may want to reconsider the relationship.

4. The numbers seem suspicious: Question the dealer’s motives if the market value of the aircraft you’re discussing seems unusually high or low.

5. Transparency questions: When you recognize that information about the aircraft is being withheld, you should immediately become concerned.

6. A lack of professionalism: If you don’t feel you’ve entered into a professional business relationship, trust your gut and move on.

7. A lack of honest disclosure about the sale: Dealers who are unwilling to disclose their interest in the transaction of the jet should be met with caution.

8. A lack of honest disclosure about services: Be similarly cautious if a dealer is unwilling to disclose their connection or interest to those whose services they recommend.

9. Uncertainty about line-item costs: Unclear costs and charges are not the norm in this industry.

10. Paperwork is scarce: Don’t move forward if you notice documents and record keeping are not organized, or documentation isn’t being carefully used at all.

Each of these ten experiences are their own red flag. If you encounter any of these situations, consider that a reason to look elsewhere. However, don’t be discouraged. A strict attention to ethics is powerfully present in the used jet market, but you need to start your search with a dealer who is independently accredited by a respected institution.

Accreditation Matters

As you meet people in the used private aircraft industry, you’ll find that they care deeply about their work. They’ve committed themselves to a business that is rewarding and unique. Those who are seriously dedicated to selling personal aircraft for sale want to continue this career well into the future by maintaining their respect and credibility among the rest of the industry.

Many of these dealers opt for special accreditation, which asks them to operate by a strict code of ethics that governs their marketplace. In return, they develop strong relationships with their buyers and other stakeholders, and they thrive as a result.

The leading organization for this special accreditation is the International Aircraft Dealers Association. Celebrating its 33rd year in 2024, it is the only worldwide cooperative of its kind that ensures independent accreditation of its members. This accreditation asks members to operate by a 14-point code of ethics, including a commitment to honesty, integrity, and transparency when representing the aircraft they sell.

Ask the aircraft dealer you are considering whether they are an IADA Accredited aircraft dealer. If not, consider this another serious red flag. You may be missing out on these ethical, fair practices that you can expect from IADA Accredited Dealers:

● Clear communication about available inventory

● Accurate specifications about the aircraft you’re interested in

● Timely communication among buyers, sellers, and brokers

● Thorough information about your dealer’s experience

● A sales approach predicated on professionalism and business etiquette

● A fair, accurate market value

● Appropriate documentation

● Candid disclosures about their interest in the transaction

● A clear, transparent discussion of all costs and charges

● And much more

Avoid the Red Flags When Seeking an Aircraft for Sale

Your experience during the acquisition of a used private aircraft should be nothing short of exceptional. When you pay attention to red flags, you significantly improve your chances of an excellent transaction.

However, you can go even further. When you work with an IADA Accredited aircraft dealer through AircraftExchange.com, you’ll have a superior experience, no matter which personal aircraft for sale you choose.

AircraftExchange.com is your resource to find aircraft sold exclusively by IADA Accredited aircraft dealers, including light, mid-size, and large jet models from leading manufacturers.

Begin your search at AircraftExchange.com now, knowing your experience is guided by the ethics and integrity you deserve.