An aircraft loses a certain amount from its value for every hour it flies over the fleet’s average. That per-hour reduction changes depending on the model and grows smaller as the aircraft ages. Early in an aircraft’s lifecycle, total airframe hours have greater impact on an aircraft’s value. Later, the age of the aircraft affects resale value more.

The aircraft’s hardware can have a significant impact on overall values. Some owners significantly increase the value of their older aircrafts by installing new avionics. Additionally, older technology, such as aging air conditioning and aging deicing gear can decrease resale values, mainly because those systems are more expensive to maintain.

An aircraft with a history of damages will decrease the value of an aircraft. Buyers should research the type of accident, level of damage, who repaired the damage and the degree to which the damages affected other components and systems. Prepurchase inspections should closely review the damage history to make sure it is properly repaired, in accordance with applicable FAA regulations and recommended practices.

The closer an engine is to its recommended time between overhaul, the less its value. Equally important is a well-documented maintenance program.

Complete records that show compliance to Airworthiness Directives and other maintenance needs increase an aircraft’s value. Buyers should review the aircraft’s airworthiness certificate, service records, engine and airframe logbooks, aircraft equipment list, weight and balance data, placards, and FAA-approved aircraft flight manual. Any missing documentation from the aircraft logbooks may produce significant problems for the buyer and reduce the value of the aircraft.

A new paint job can increase the value of an aircraft. However, buyers should proceed with caution. The paint could hide corrosion and/or damages under the surface, which can greatly reduce the value of the aircraft.