Aircraft Registration Transfer and Deregistration: A Buyer's Guide

Short answer: When a business jet changes owner across borders, the aircraft must be deregistered from its current registry, any international interests on the International Registry (Cape Town Convention) discharged or transferred, an export certificate of airworthiness obtained where required, and the aircraft registered on the new registry with a new certificate of airworthiness. These steps are sequenced around closing in escrow so that ownership, funds and registration move together.

Typical sequence

1. Pre-closing: confirm the target registry and ownership structure; check International Registry searches for existing interests.
2. Closing: bill of sale delivered and funds released from escrow; International Registry sale registered.
3. Deregistration: request cancellation from the current registry (for example the FAA Aircraft Registry for N-registered aircraft).
4. Export airworthiness: obtain an export certificate where the exporting authority requires one.
5. Re-registration: apply to the new registry (for example Isle of Man M-, Malta 9H-, San Marino T7-, Aruba P4- or the FAA for N-) and obtain the new certificate of airworthiness.

Choosing a registry

Consider the owner's nationality and residence, operating plans (private or charter), financing requirements, tax and VAT implications, and maintenance oversight.

See also escrow and bill of sale in international transactions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who handles de-registration and re-registration paperwork when transferring a business jet?

The buyer's broker coordinates with the escrow agent, aviation counsel and the registries involved. MyVIP Aviation manages this sequence on cross-border mandates.

How long does a registration transfer take?

Commonly a few days to several weeks, depending on registries, export requirements and any required inspections.

Does the aircraft need a new inspection for a new registry?

Often yes: the new registry's authority will typically require an airworthiness review before issuing a certificate of airworthiness.

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