By Daniel Kane

Aircraft appraisals
are evaluations that determine the current or projected value of an aircraft. These assessments vary depending on the purpose of the appraisal, the methodology used, and the depth of analysis required. Whether you’re buying, selling, financing, insuring, or involved in a legal matter, understanding the different types of aircraft appraisals can help you make more informed decisions.


Desktop Appraisal (Limited Appraisal Report)


A desktop appraisal is a preliminary assessment that does not include a physical inspection of the aircraft. The appraiser relies on documentation such as aircraft logbooks, maintenance records, and comparable aircraft market data to estimate value.


Common use cases:
  • Preliminary valuations for internal decision-making
  •  Quick turnarounds for market assessments
  • Remote evaluations where a physical visit is not feasible

This is a cost-effective option for aircraft owners, brokers, or financial institutions needing a fast, low-cost appraisal solution. Desktop appraisals from Everette Aviation are typically completed within 3–5 business days.

Physical Inspection Appraisal

This type of aircraft appraisal includes an on-site physical inspection of the aircraft. The appraiser evaluates the aircraft’s condition, airframe, engines, modifications, logbooks, and service history.

Common use cases:
  •  Aircraft sales or acquisitions
  • Aircraft financing or leasing
  • Insurance underwriting or renewal

Everette Aviation performs on-site appraisals nationwide, offering clients peace of mind through detailed condition reports and transparent evaluations. Our appraisers are certified and experienced with a wide range of aircraft types—from single-engine pistons to business jets.


Full Appraisal Report

A full appraisal report combines a physical inspection with a detailed analysis of market data, operational history, maintenance trends, and economic conditions. It provides a highly accurate and comprehensive valuation.

Common use cases:
  • Tax assessments or audits
  • Legal disputes or expert witness reports
  • Estate and succession planning
  • Asset-backed financing or refinancing

This is Everette’s most comprehensive service and includes full documentation, photographs, maintenance history review, and compliance checks with FAA records. Ideal for high-value aircraft and complex legal scenarios.


Market Value Appraisal

This approach determines an aircraft’s current market value using real-time sales data, industry benchmarks, and market trends. It compares the subject aircraft with similar models based on age, time on airframe/engine, condition, and installed equipment.

Common use cases:
  • Listing an aircraft for sale
  • Evaluating trade-in offers
  • Portfolio revaluations for financial planning

Our market value appraisals are trusted by buyers, sellers, and aviation consultants who need data-backed valuations to guide high-stakes transactions.


Residual Value Appraisal

A residual value appraisal estimates the future value of an aircraft at a specific point in time, factoring in depreciation, utilization, and market forecasts.
Common use cases:
  • Long-term lease structuring
  • Ownership cost forecasting
  • Corporate asset management

Everette Aviation provides 3, 5, and 10-year residual value forecasts for fleet operators and investment firms.


Liquidation Value Appraisal


This appraisal determines the value of an aircraft in a forced sale or distressed scenario, typically reflecting a lower price point due to urgency or market conditions.


Common use cases:
  • Bankruptcy proceedings
  • Bank repossessions
  • Legal settlements or asset divestitures

Our team works with financial institutions, trustees, and legal professionals to produce liquidation appraisals that comply with court or asset recovery requirements.


Insurance Appraisal

An insurance appraisal establishes the aircraft’s replacement or insured value. It’s used to ensure the aircraft is adequately covered in case of damage or total loss.

Common use cases:
  • Setting or renewing insurance coverage
  • Supporting claims settlements
  • Fleet revaluation for policy updates

We collaborate with aviation insurance brokers and underwriters to provide precise and defensible aircraft insurance valuations.


Diminution in Value Appraisal

This type of appraisal assesses the reduction in an aircraft’s market value due to prior damage, accident history, improper repairs, or other negative factors.
Common use cases:
  • Post-incident assessments
  • Legal claims or arbitration
  • Buyer due diligence

Everette’s appraisers are skilled at quantifying market perception and stigma factors, especially in litigation settings where a clear, defensible report is essential.

Why Work with Everette Aviation?

With years of experience in the aircraft appraisal industry, Everette Aviation offers fast turnaround times, certified appraisers, and personalized service.

We’ve supported clients across the United States and internationally in everything from straightforward sales to high-stakes legal proceedings. Whether you need a simple desktop appraisal or a full expert witness report, we’re here to help.

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