In aviation, popping the cowling is the first step in a thorough inspection. At AirSpace Auctions, we take the same approach—lifting the hood on aircraft sales to ensure transparency, efficiency, and a seamless experience for both sellers and bidders. Our goal isn’t just to auction aircraft; it’s to do so with precision, integrity, and a commitment to keeping aviation above board. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how we make that happen.
Fraud Prevention: Verifying Every Detail
Selling an aircraft isn’t as simple as putting up a listing and waiting for bids. To protect both buyers and sellers, we dig deep into the details, cross-referencing FAA records and ensuring that every aircraft’s history checks out.
Take, for example, a 1953 de Havilland Super Chipmunk recently listed with us. The aircraft was owned by a corporation and represented by a broker, adding layers of complexity to the sale. Rather than taking information at face value, we pulled FAA data, checked the Secretary of State’s website for corporate ownership records, and coordinated a conference call to resolve missing details. By securing the necessary contracts and verifying every data point, we ensured that the listing was accurate and legitimate before it went live.
This level of diligence protects buyers from potential pitfalls while providing sellers with a smooth, professional experience. Whether an aircraft is privately owned, held by a company, or being resold through a third party, we make sure all the dots connect before it hits the auction block.
Comprehensive Documentation: Empowering Bidders with Knowledge
One of the key ways we add value to our bidders is by providing in-depth documentation on every aircraft. Each listing is backed by a wealth of information, including logbook scans, maintenance history, FAA records, ownership details, and high-resolution photos that give bidders a comprehensive understanding of the aircraft before they place a bid.
This not only makes it easier for bidders to research and evaluate the aircraft they’re interested in, but it also enables them to access historical sales data. By reviewing past auction results, including actual sale prices, bidders can better gauge market trends and develop more accurate budgets for future purchases. This level of transparency and accessibility ensures that every bidder—whether a seasoned aircraft owner or a first-time buyer—can make informed decisions with confidence and convenience.
Keeping Bidders Engaged: More Than Just an Auction
At AirSpace Auctions, we understand that not every bidder is ready to buy today—but that doesn’t mean they won’t be tomorrow. Our communication with bidders goes beyond the auction itself, ensuring that aviation enthusiasts, potential buyers, and returning clients stay connected.
We’ve seen time and again how long-term engagement turns casual watchers into serious buyers. One bidder, for example, initially came to our site just to browse, but over time, they kept returning to our auctions while building their flight hours. By consistently providing them with updates, insights, and information about the aircraft they were interested in, we built a relationship of trust. When they were finally ready to purchase, AirSpace Auctions was their first stop.
For us, it’s not just about closing a single deal—it’s about fostering a community of engaged buyers who know they can rely on us when the time is right.
The AirSpace Difference
We know that every aircraft tells a story, and every transaction represents more than just a sale—it’s a transition to a new chapter for both the seller and the buyer. That’s why we go beyond the standard auction model, ensuring every aircraft is represented accurately and every potential buyer is given the information they need.
As Lisa Hutton, Operations Manager and Founder of AirSpace Auctions, puts it:
“At AirSpace, we recognize that each aircraft is incredibly unique, and all the data surrounding it makes it a superstar. We’ve built a system that highlights these precise details and assembled a team dedicated to making this system work seamlessly. By integrating technology into everything we do, we ensure that navigating the details is easy and accessible for every aviator, no matter their level of technical expertise.”
And for Matt Hutton, Lead Listing Agent and President of Business Development, it’s all about passion and connection:
“I absolutely love airplanes and being part of the aviation community. Meeting fellow aviators, diving deep into aircraft research, and helping people find the perfect aircraft for their needs is what drives me every day.”
At the end of the day, popping the cowling on our own operations reveals exactly what we want our clients to see: transparency, diligence, and a deep love for aviation. Whether you’re selling an aircraft or looking to buy, AirSpace Auctions is here to make the process seamless, secure, and successful.