Back to InsightsWhy IADA Certification Matters for Buyers and Sellers
In the world of business aircraft transactions, the stakes are always high. Deals involve complex regulatory, technical and financial components, large sums of money and often tight timelines. For prospective aircraft buyers and sellers, choosing the right representative isn’t just a matter of convenience, it can be critical to the success of the transaction.
That’s where IADA certification delivers real value.
What is IADA and What Does Accreditation Mean?
The International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) serves as the collective force shaping standards and practices in aircraft brokerage. Its stated mission is to lead in developing and maintaining standards for efficient, effective and ethical business aircraft transactions.
Although IADA-certified dealers make up fewer than 10% of the industry, they account for more than 40 percent of pre-owned aircraft transactions globally. That volume reflects both experience and the credibility the certification signals.
IADA-accredited members are a select group. Accreditation is not permanent: dealers must earn it initially (by meeting rigorous standards) and then be re-accredited every three years. That keeps accountability high, ensures ongoing competence, and helps clients know they’re working with professionals who stay current in what remains a fast-moving, technically and legally demanding field.
The program also connects members to an active network of peers, educational resources and continuing professional development.
Higher Trust through Ethical Standards
One of the strongest advantages of working with an IADA certified member is the built-in code of ethics. Members agree to strict requirements around honesty, full disclosure (of compensation methods, ownership interests, financial ties, etc.), accurate specification of aircraft and truthful representation. For buyers and sellers, that translates into fewer surprises, more transparency and greater confidence.
Because IADA Accredited Dealers adhere to standards about how offers should be handled, how listings are presented, and how documents are kept current, the overall transaction process tends to be more streamlined.
Sellers can expect that once an offer is accepted, prospective purchasers are informed properly; buyers can expect that what they are shown is an accurate description and that all relevant facts are laid out. These process improvements aren’t just theoretical, they reduce time, cost and risk.
Demonstrated Experience and Market Reach
Working with an IADA-certified adviser means working with someone who has deep market knowledge, broad connections and a track record of handling high-stakes transactional work. It also opens a world of aviation for clients, beyond the sale.
That shared network becomes an asset for clients. When an IADA dealer reaches out across the association, the conversation is rooted in mutual respect and professionalism. In a variety of ways, this can be key for buyers, including in sourcing hangar space, exploring management options, or coordinating a pre-buy inspection. They benefit from a trusted circle of contacts committed to high standards.
Additionally, in collaboration with manufacturers, MROs and service providers, the association has helped refine processes that directly improve outcomes for buyers and sellers. One example is the pre-purchase inspection process at Textron Aviation, which became clearer and more efficient thanks in part to input from IADA members. Improvements like these reduce wasted time, avoid unnecessary costs, and make transactions smoother for everyone involved.
How IADA Aligns with Hatt & Associates’ Values
At Hatt & Associates, we aim to deliver transactions that are as predictable, transparent and efficient as possible, because we understand what is at risk for our clients. The values IADA emphasizes — ethics, clarity, continuous improvement — are ones we work to embody every day.
When clients come to us, they are choosing a partner committed not only to closing a deal, but doing it in a way that respects their investment, mitigates surprises and advocates for their interests.
If you’re considering an aircraft transaction, choosing an IADA-certified broker isn’t just a credential. It’s an investment in the quality, safety and integrity of the deal itself.
Tap into our expertise and certified network of experience for your transaction. Talk to us about your aircraft acquisition and brokerage goals and plans.