Helicopter Appraisal Process
How is a Certified Helicopter Appraisal Performed?
A Certified Helicopter Appraisal begins with an on-site thorough examination of the exterior and interior of the helicopter. Special attention is paid to the condition of the airframe, paint, engines, rotor blades, and instrumentation. The avionics and related flight instruments are inventoried to insure they are properly accounted for in assessing the value of the helicopter. The panel layout, optional systems, deicing systems, cabin and interior conditions are also evaluated. Airframe and engine modifications, as well as signs of present damage are documented. Service Bulletin status and airworthiness Directive (AD) status are reviewed, as is the status of any historical damage repairs. The conditions of “wear items”, e.g. skids, paint; interior, etc. are compared to comprehensive and detailed written NAAA standards.
The logbooks and paperwork are carefully reviewed because these document the historical care or abuse that was given to this particular helicopter. This review documents whether maintenance was done to keep the helicopter in top condition or just to maintain a minimal level of airworthiness. Frequently, what is not recorded is important, e.g. missing annual inspections, missing or defaced logbook pages, and undocumented modifications. Special attention is given to any incidents of past damage history as this may or may not have a significant impact on the helicopter’s value.
After the helicopter inspection and paperwork examination is complete, the process of establishing the helicopter’s value begins. Utilizing the databases and proprietary software developed by the NAAA, the information from this helicopter is entered into the NAAA database (this database is updated every month). After the detailed Helicopter’s Appraisal (typically 8 to 15 pages) is generated, it is reviewed by a Senior Certified Appraiser for accuracy. Once the appraisal has been approved, it is signed and stamped as a Certified Helicopter Appraisal.
The National Aircraft Appraisers Association (NAAA) is the trade association for professional aircraft appraisers. Since 1980 the NAAA has been the Certification entity, and has established the standards and Code of Ethics for professional aircraft appraisers in the United States and abroad.
This type of report is widely accepted by all governments, legal, and financial institutions. It is a useful tool for individual buyers and sellers when determining a current fair market value for an helicopter purchase or sale, as well.
