What is a pre-purchase inspection for an aircraft?

A pre-purchase inspection, or PPI, is a comprehensive technical examination of an aircraft conducted before a sale is completed. It covers airframe condition, engine status, avionics, maintenance records, and compliance history. It is usually performed by an independent MRO organisation with no financial interest in the transaction outcome. ASM coordinates pre-purchase inspections as part of the aircraft acquisition process.

What does AOC mean in aviation?

AOC stands for Air Operator Certificate. It is the certification issued by a civil aviation authority that authorises an operator to conduct commercial air operations with specific aircraft types. An AOC holder has passed safety, operational, and maintenance standards set by the relevant authority. ASM holds an AOC and operates its own private jet fleet under this certification.

Should I buy or charter a private jet?

The decision to buy or charter a private jet depends on utilisation, budget, operational needs, routing, and ownership objectives. High annual utilisation, often around 200 or more hours per year, may favour ownership. Lower utilisation with variable routing may favour charter. As both an acquisition advisor and a charter provider, ASM can help clients assess both options objectively.

How long does aircraft acquisition typically take?

A straightforward pre-owned aircraft acquisition from identification through to delivery typically takes 6 to 12 weeks. More complex transactions involving extensive inspections, refurbishment, registration changes, financing, or legal structuring can take longer.

What types of aircraft does ASM advise on?

ASM's advisory covers business jets across multiple categories, including light jets, mid-size jets, super-midsize jets, large cabin aircraft, and ultra-long-range aircraft. ASM can support both new aircraft and pre-owned aircraft acquisition requirements.

Can ASM find buyers outside the UAE?

Yes. ASM's aircraft sales outreach is international and can cover qualified buyers across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and other global aviation markets.

Does ASM advise on aircraft registration?

ASM provides general guidance on aircraft registration considerations and can connect clients with specialist legal and regulatory advisors where detailed structuring, ownership, or registration advice is required.

What is a Letter of Intent in an aircraft purchase?

A Letter of Intent, or LOI, is a non-binding document that outlines the agreed terms of an aircraft purchase before the formal sale and purchase agreement is executed. It typically covers price, deposit, inspection period, delivery conditions, and key transaction milestones. ASM manages the LOI stage as part of the aircraft acquisition process.

How does ASM's fee structure work for acquisition advisory?

ASM's fee structure is discussed at the outset of each aircraft acquisition advisory engagement. Clients can contact [sales@asm.aero](mailto:sales@asm.aero) or call +971 4 409 7755 to discuss specific aircraft sales, acquisition, or advisory requirements.

Aircraft Sales & Acquisition Advisory

Aviation Services Management provides aircraft sales and acquisition advisory, drawing on aviation experience since 1998. The engagement begins with the buyer's mission profile or the seller's aircraft details, followed by an agreed scope for market research, technical coordination and transaction support.

ASM AIR is the group's UAE-based aircraft operator and AOC holder. Its operational perspective can inform aircraft selection, while ASM's advisory role and the responsibilities of independent technical, legal and financial specialists are defined for each mandate.

What Is Aircraft Acquisition Advisory?

Aircraft acquisition advisory helps a buyer define requirements, compare candidate aircraft and coordinate the steps from enquiry to acceptance. A useful comparison considers typical routes, passenger and baggage loads, operating base, annual utilisation, maintenance status and anticipated ownership costs.

The advisory scope should identify who conducts the independent pre-purchase inspection, reviews title and contractual terms, manages escrow and confirms registration requirements. ASM coordinates the agreed workstreams; the appointed specialists remain responsible for their professional findings and approvals.

Before committing to a candidate, request an aircraft comparison, the available records, known upcoming maintenance and a written list of matters requiring further verification.

Tailored Aircraft Sales and Acquisition Solutions

Aircraft Acquisition

Drawing on decades of experience in business aviation and global trip support, ASM ensures your aircraft acquisition process is tailored to your unique requirements. Whether seeking a new or pre-owned aircraft, our experts provide personalized, data-driven recommendations to help you make the best investment.

Needs Analysis
Mission profile (routes, range, passengers), operational base, budget, configuration preferences, registration, and AOC considerations. Getting this right upfront prevents time wasted on unsuitable options.

Market Research & Identification
ASM continuously monitors the global business aviation market. For each acquisition mandate, suitable aircraft are identified from dealer inventory and off-market sources — ASM's network surfaces options that rarely appear on public listings.

Evaluation & Pre-Purchase Inspection
• Technical logbook and maintenance record review
• Airframe, engine, and avionics inspection coordination — with independent MRO facilities
• Interior and cabin condition assessment
• Operational history and utilisation analysis
• Registration, ownership, and legal status verification

Negotiation & Transaction Management
ASM negotiates on behalf of the buyer — managing the LOI (Letter of Intent), contingency periods, inspection results, and final purchase agreement through to delivery, payment, and registration. Legal advisors, escrow, and acceptance flights are coordinated as required.

Aircraft Sales

Aircraft sales demand more than a listing—it requires a strategic approach that blends targeted marketing, expert negotiations, and global outreach. At ASM, we maximize your aircraft’s visibility through our extensive international network, ensuring you receive the competitive offers from qualified buyers.

Sales Preparation & Pricing Strategy
Presentation preparation, documentation review, and pricing recommendation based on current market comparables and active buyer demand.

International Buyer Outreach
ASM's sales outreach reaches qualified buyers across the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and beyond — not only public listing platforms.

Negotiation & Closing
ASM manages buyer negotiations, due diligence coordination, and deal momentum through to completion on behalf of the seller.

Aviation Expertise at Every Step

The group's aircraft-operating experience sits with ASM AIR. ASM draws on that practical perspective when discussing aircraft suitability, support requirements and ownership planning.

Prepare for your first consultation: share your usual city pairs, longest intended sector, passenger count, baggage needs, annual flying hours, preferred base, budget range and target delivery date. Sellers should provide the aircraft specification, utilisation, maintenance status and available records.

Agree the outputs: the mandate should define the shortlist or marketing plan, comparison criteria, inspection coordination, reporting schedule, fees and any third-party costs. Technical acceptance, legal advice and registration approval require the appropriate independent parties.

Why ASM is the Right Choice for You

A Legacy of Aviation Expertise

Ownership Experience

As operators of our private jet fleet, we know the importance of making informed aircraft investment decisions.

Global Reach

We operate globally, ensuring that no matter where your aircraft needs are, we leverage our international network to secure the best deals and attract qualified buyers

Proven Track Record

Supporting global aviation since 1998, we’ve built a reputation for reliability and excellence.

Our Seamless Process for Aircraft Sales and Acquisitions

Consultation and Market Research

We start by fully understanding your unique needs and conducting extensive market research to identify the best aircraft options tailored to you.

Negotiation and Contracting

We negotiate the most favorable terms on your behalf, safeguarding your interests and ensuring every detail is handled with precision.

Aircraft Selection and Evaluation

Our team meticulously evaluates each option, ensuring that it aligns with your performance, financial, and operational expectations.

Transaction and Delivery

From finalizing contracts to overseeing the flawless delivery of your aircraft, ASM ensures that every stage is executed with care and attention to detail.

What You Need to Know - Aircraft Sales and Acquisitions

A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is a comprehensive technical examination of an aircraft conducted before a sale is completed. It covers airframe condition, engine status, avionics, maintenance records, and compliance history — performed by an independent MRO organisation with no financial interest in the transaction outcome. ASM coordinates pre-purchase inspections as part of the acquisition process.

This depends on utilisation, budget, and operational needs. The decision depends on mission profile, availability requirements, total lifecycle cost, financing, tax and regulatory considerations. Annual utilisation is one factor, but it should not be used as the only basis for choosing ownership or charter. As both an acquisition advisor and a charter provider, ASM can objectively assess both options.