Aircraft Mechanic’s Liens

When an FBO or maintenance shop provides storage, repair, maintenance or other services to an aircraft and the aircraft owner doesn’t pay for those services, whether because the bill is disputed or the owner doesn’t have the money, the FBO or maintenance shop typically has the ability to assert a lien against that aircraft and/or retain possession until payment is received. This is commonly referred to as a mechanic’s lien or artisan’s lien. Although each state has its own laws governing aircraft mechanic’s liens, the general process for perfecting and enforcing an aircraft mechanic’s lien is similar throughout the states. For an overview of non-state-specific aircraft mechanic’s lien law, please read my latest article on the topic here.