Certified Aircraft Appraisals

A certified aircraft appraisal begins with a thorough on‑location examination of the exterior and interior of the aircraft. Special attention is paid to the airframe, paint, engines, propellers, and the condition of the instrumentation. The avionics and related flight instruments are inventoried so they are properly accounted for when assessing the aircraft’s value.

The panel layout, optional systems, de‑icing systems, cabin, and interior condition are evaluated. Airframe and engine modifications, as well as any visible signs of present damage, are documented.

Certified aircraft appraisals include a detailed review of:

• Airframe and engine logbooks
• Major repair and alteration records (including FAA Form 337s, where applicable)
• Service Bulletin (SB) and Airworthiness Directive (AD) status
• Historical damage repairs and related documentation

The logbooks and paperwork document the aircraft's historical care or neglect. This review helps determine whether maintenance has been performed to keep the aircraft in top operating condition or simply at a minimal level of airworthiness. Missing inspections, missing or defaced pages, and undocumented modifications are noted, as they may affect both value and marketability.

The condition of wear items (such as paint, interior, and tires) is compared to written PAAO standards to support a consistent, evidence‑based assessment.

After the aircraft inspection and records examination are complete, the process of developing an opinion of value begins. Aircraft‑specific information is analyzed using databases and proprietary software developed by the Professional Aircraft Appraisal Organization (PAAO), incorporating current market data for the relevant category and configuration. 

The resulting certified aircraft appraisal report typically includes:

• A description of the subject aircraft and configuration
• Inspection and documentation findings
• Market data and analysis supporting the opinion of value
• The concluded opinion of value and effective date

Once the report is generated, it is reviewed by a certified appraiser for accuracy. When approved, the appraisal is signed and stamped as a PAAO Certified Aircraft Appraisal.

Both certified aircraft appraisals and USPAP‑compliant appraisals are professionally prepared and based on on‑site inspection and full records review. The key distinction is the appraisal standard and reporting framework used:

• A Certified Aircraft Appraisal follows PAAO certification requirements and reporting practices, and is appropriate when a client needs a professionally prepared opinion of value but does not require a full USPAP‑compliant report.
• A USPAP‑compliant aircraft appraisal is developed and reported in accordance with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice, with additional requirements for scope of work, report structure, disclosures, and record retention. USPAP‑compliant appraisals are often selected for higher‑reliance uses such as lending, estate and divorce matters, litigation, and IRS‑related reporting.

If you are unsure whether a certified aircraft appraisal or a USPAP‑compliant appraisal is more appropriate for your situation, we can discuss the intended use, intended users, and any applicable policy, regulatory, or legal expectations before the assignment is accepted.