The short answer
A typical aircraft purchase involves a purchase agreement, an aircraft bill of sale, an FAA registration application, loan and security documents if financed (recording the lender's lien), an insurance binder, and escrow closing statements. A title/escrow company assembles and files most of it.
The Core Documents
- Purchase agreement: the contract governing the sale, with inspection and financing contingencies. See our purchase agreement guide.
- Bill of sale: transfers ownership from seller to buyer.
- Registration application: registers the aircraft to the new owner with the FAA.
- Loan & security documents: if financed, the note and the security agreement the lender records as a lien.
- Insurance binder: proof coverage is bound (required before funding).
- Closing statements: the escrow accounting of funds and disbursements.
Escrow Ties It Together
A title and escrow company assembles the paperwork, verifies clear title, holds funds, coordinates the FAA filings, and disburses at closing. If you're financing, the lender's documents and lien filing are handled at the same time. Coordinating the purchase agreement's timelines with the loan process keeps the paperwork flowing to an on-time close.
Figures in this article are illustrative for the 2026 market and are not offers of credit. Jaken Aviation is a licensed aircraft financing brokerage — a division of Jaken Finance Group — and does not make loan decisions. All financing is subject to lender approval. Tax and legal information is general; consult a qualified professional.
Related Questions
Do I need a lawyer for the paperwork?
Escrow/title companies handle standard filings, but an aviation attorney is wise for complex deals, entity purchases, or unusual terms.
What documents does financing add?
A promissory note and a security agreement that the lender records as a lien with the FAA, released at payoff, plus the insurance binder naming the lender.
Who prepares the bill of sale?
It's typically prepared as part of the escrow closing package; the escrow company coordinates signatures and FAA filing.
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