Any number of experts can help you buy a jet. Unfortunately, I am not one of them. But I did buy a jet — my first — recently, and the experience taught me some lessons. It is entirely possible that you and your company will employ an expert or two to help you find a turbofan-powered airplane and that my experience will seem bush league to you. It did not seem bush league to me. Since buying the jet, I’ve spent several hours listening to recorded messages when looking for information from Rockwell Collins (FMS database), CAMP (maintenance tracking) and Williams International (engines).
How to Buy a Used Jet
Key Takeaways:
- Buying a first jet is a complex process with significant hidden costs beyond the initial purchase price, requiring thorough understanding of mission profile, usage, and ongoing operational expenses.
- Assembling a specialized team is crucial, including a light-jet broker for market assessment and vetting, an aviation tax consultant for ownership structures and compliance, and a maintenance expert for detailed pre-purchase inspections and history review.
- Key considerations involve understanding the true costs of ownership, evaluating the importance of engine programs, and seeking highly specialized aviation-specific advice over generalist professional counsel.
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