What are the best practices for ensuring airworthiness before leasing an aircraft?

1 Pre-lease inspection

One of the most important steps before leasing an aircraft is to conduct a thorough pre-lease inspection of the physical condition and performance of the plane. This inspection should cover all the major systems and components of the aircraft, such as the engine, landing gear, avionics, flight controls, fuel system, electrical system, and cabin interior. The inspection should also check for any signs of damage, corrosion, wear, or defects that could affect the airworthiness of the aircraft. The pre-lease inspection should be done by a qualified and independent inspector who can provide an objective and detailed report of the findings.

2 Maintenance records

Another key factor to consider before leasing an aircraft is the maintenance history and status of the plane. The maintenance records should provide a comprehensive and accurate account of all the service, repair, overhaul, and modification work that has been done on the aircraft since its manufacture. The maintenance records should also indicate the current compliance with the applicable airworthiness directives, service bulletins, and manufacturer recommendations. The maintenance records should be verified by a certified and authorized maintenance organization that can attest to the quality and validity of the work performed on the aircraft.

3 Certificates and documents

Before leasing an aircraft, it is also essential to verify that the aircraft has all the required certificates and documents that prove its airworthiness and registration. These include the certificate of airworthiness, the certificate of registration, the noise certificate, the radio license, the weight and balance report, the equipment list, and the flight manual. The certificates and documents should be valid, current, and consistent with the actual configuration and condition of the aircraft. The certificates and documents should also comply with the regulations and standards of the country or region where the aircraft will operate.

4 Test flight

Finally, before leasing an aircraft, it is advisable to perform a test flight to evaluate the performance and handling of the plane in different flight conditions and scenarios. The test flight should be conducted by a qualified and experienced pilot who can assess the aircraft's capabilities and limitations, as well as identify any potential issues or anomalies that could affect its airworthiness. The test flight should also include a thorough pre-flight check, a post-flight inspection, and a debriefing session to document and communicate the results and feedback of the test.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?