International Registry

Basics 101 of the International Registry: What, Why and How?

What is the International Registry?

The International Registry (“IR”) is an international electronic database, based out of Dublin, Ireland, that provides for the search and electronic registration of aircraft objects, including airframes, aircraft engines and helicopters. It provides protection of financial interests in aircraft assets for owners, creditors, debtors, lessors, lessees, agents and others. It also enables the registration of contracts of sale, prospective interests, and various related rights.

Why do I have to register on the International Registry?

Before the establishment of the IR, there were significant challenges in determining the legal ownership of high-value mobile assets that move across international borders. Different countries had different laws, creating uncertainty and legal risks for financiers and owners. This situation often made it difficult to secure financing for such assets, particularly aircraft, and led to the creation of the Cape Town Convention in 2001, which was designed to standardize transactions and ensure that the rights of creditors, lessors and lessees were clearly defined and internationally recognized.  The IR is a critical tool to protect your financial interests on a global scale. Over 80 countries have ratified the Cape Town Convention and integrated principles of the registry into their national laws. All aircraft sales and purchase contracts written by Aerlex will require Buyer, Seller and Lender (if any) to register on the IR. Lenders usually require that your IR account remain active for the term of your loan. Priority is determined on a “first-to-file” basis, meaning it is crucial to have your International Registry account active in advance of closing your transaction to avoid any delays.

How do I register on the International Registry?

Registering on the IR is an essential part of any aircraft transaction. The first party to register has the first priority.  Aerlex maintains an active IR presence and can create new accounts, renew expiring accounts, activate disabled accounts, obtain priority search certificates and coordinate registrations with your escrow agent. Engaging Aerlex to manage and handle this task early on in your transaction ensures not only an easy and seamless transactional experience, but also vital protection of your interests.

Any Questions?

For additional information regarding the IR, please get in touch with Aerlex Paralegal Jennifer Wright (jwright@aerlex.com) .  She’s our in-house expert, and is available to discuss various IR issues, register your aircraft with the IR, renew an IR or terminate an existing IR listing.