How is a Certified Aircraft Appraisal Performed
A Certified Aircraft Appraisal begins with an on-site thorough examination of the exterior and interior of the aircraft. Special attention is paid to the condition of the airframe, paint, engines, propellers, and instrumentation. The avionics and related flight instruments are inventoried to insure they are properly accounted for in assessing the value of the aircraft. The panel layout, optional systems, deicing systems, cabin and interior conditions are also evaluated. Airframe and engine modifications, as well as signs of present damage are documented. Service Bulletin status and airworthiness Directive (AD) status are reviewed as is the status of any historical damage repairs. The conditions of “wear items”, e.g. tires, paint; interior, etc. are compared to comprehensive and detailed written NAAA standards.
The logbooks and paperwork are carefully reviewed because these document the historical care or abuse that was given to this particular aircraft. This review documents whether maintenance was done to keep the aircraft in top condition or just to maintain a minimal level of airworthiness. Frequently, what is not recorded is important, e.g. missing annual inspections, missing or defaced logbook pages, and undocumented modifications. Special attention is given to any incidents of past damage history as this may or may not have a significant impact on the aircraft’s value.
After the aircraft inspection and paperwork examination is complete, the process of establishing the aircraft’s value begins. Utilizing the databases and proprietary software developed by the NAAA, the information from this aircraft is entered into the NAAA database (this database is updated every month). After the detailed Aircraft Appraisal (typically 8 to 15 pages) is generated, it is reviewed by a Senior Certified Appraiser for accuracy. Once the appraisal has been approved, it is signed and stamped as a Certified Aircraft Appraisal.
The National Aircraft Appraisers Association (NAAA) is the trade association for professional aircraft appraisers. Since 2010 Cayley Aerospace Inc has been the Certification entity, and has established the standards and Code of Ethics for professional aircraft appraisers in the United States and abroad.We are Approved Valuers FIV licensed with Institution of Valuers in Aeronautical Engineering on various types of Aeroplanes.
This type of report is widely accepted by all governments, legal, and financial institutions. It is a useful tool for individual buyers and sellers when determining a current fair market value for an aircraft purchase or sale, as well.