At Holstein Aviation, we’ve always believed that the sky shouldn’t have borders—but we also know that the paperwork and regulations certainly do. In our 300 years of collective experience and over 4,700 transactions, we’ve seen the global marketplace become a source for high-quality, pre-owned inventory. Whether you are eyeing a pristine Challenger 350 in Europe or a low-time Global 6500 in Asia, importing an aircraft is a strategic move that can yield incredible value through our aircraft acquisition services.

However, “bringing it home” is about more than just a long ferry flight. It is a complex orchestration of technical compliance, shifting tax landscapes, and rigorous regulatory hurdles. In the current 2026 environment, navigating these waters requires a meticulous eye and a steady hand with our acquisition services.

1. The Regulatory “Deregistration” Dance

The process begins long before the wheels touch down on U.S. soil. To move an aircraft from a foreign registry to the FAA (N-number), you must first ensure it is “cleanly” deregistered from its country of origin. This involves a search of the International Registry of Mobile Assets (IR) under the Cape Town Convention to ensure no outstanding liens exist. Our team offers complete aircraft acquisition and consulting services to navigate this process.

At Holstein, we treat documentation like flight safety—there is no room for error. We verify that the Bill of Sale and the Deregistration Power of Attorney are executed perfectly to prevent the aircraft from becoming “homeless”—stuck between two registries and unable to fly. This attention to detail is part of our aircraft management and sales services, ensuring a swift transaction method and acquisition complete status.

2. The Power of the DAR (Designated Airworthiness Representative)

One of the most critical players in your import mission is the Designated Airworthiness Representative (DAR). While the FAA oversees the registry, they often delegate the physical inspection and certification of imported aircraft to these highly specialized private individuals.

The DAR acts as the final gatekeeper. They are responsible for examining the aircraft’s logbooks and physical condition to ensure it meets the FAA Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS) requirements. At Holstein Aviation, we engage a DAR early in the process. Their role is to issue the Standard Airworthiness Certificate (FAA Form 8100-2), effectively “blessing” the aircraft for U.S. operations. Without a DAR’s sign-off, your investment stays on the ramp. Our engagement with DARs is part of our aircraft sales and acquisition services, aiming for a seamless transaction.

3. Technical Compliance: The “Import-Ready” Standard

An aircraft flying under EASA (European) or other foreign standards may look identical to an FAA-registered jet, but the “paper trail” is often different.

• Modification Verification: We work with the DAR to scrutinize all Service Bulletins (SBs) and Airworthiness Directives (ADs). What was compliant in Switzerland might require a specific hardware upgrade for the FAA.

• The Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI): We recommend conducting the PPI at an authorized facility capable of performing the “Export Certificate of Airworthiness” inspection simultaneously. This ensures the DAR receives a package that is “turnkey” and transparent, complemented by our stellar customer service.

4. The 2026 Tax and Tariff Landscape

The financial side of importing has seen significant shifts recently. With the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) in late 2025, the aviation industry saw the permanent reinstatement of 100% bonus depreciation. This makes 2026 a landmark year for acquisitions, facilitated by our global network and international sales capabilities.

However, the “cost of entry” has been complicated by new trade policies. As of February 2026, a 10% temporary import surcharge has been applied to various goods. While many civil aircraft still benefit from zero-duty status, certain Canadian and Chinese-origin assets face steeper hurdles.

Pro Tip: Don’t just look at the purchase price. Work with our team to calculate the “Landed Cost,” which includes potential tariffs, DAR fees, and the specific state-level “Use Tax” that may apply once the aircraft is hangared in the U.S. Our purchase evaluation and straight talk will guide you through this.

5. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

The “Arrival” is a formal event. Every international flight must comply with the Electronic Advance Passenger Information System (eAPIS). For a permanent import, you must also file a formal entry (CBP Form 7501). We coordinate with specialized customs brokers to ensure the aircraft is cleared immediately upon arrival, avoiding costly delays.

6. Why the “Mission” Matters

At Holstein Aviation, we don’t just sell tail numbers; we define missions. Importing an aircraft should only happen if that specific airframe delivers higher value than what is available domestically. Our IADA-certified brokers analyze the global market to find the “hidden gems” while providing the “headwork” to ensure the transition is anticlimactic.

The goal is simple: By the time you sign the final paperwork, the hard work is done. Your only job is to climb on board and go flying.

Are you considering a cross-border acquisition this year? The global market is moving fast, and the 2026 tax benefits are too significant to ignore. Let our team of experts handle the complexity for you.