At Allegis Law, Rustin Diehl focuses on the two areas where aircraft transactions most often go wrong before closing: ownership structure and tax strategy. Whether you are purchasing your first business aircraft or selling a fleet asset, Rustin designs the legal and tax framework for the transaction, and connects you with the aviation title and escrow specialists needed to move it to close.
Aircraft transactions fail or get delayed at three points: title defects, contract terms, and closing coordination. Rustin addresses the legal and tax structure on all three and coordinates the specialists who manage the rest.
As your aviation transaction attorney, Allegis Law:
Rustin identifies where deal terms pose risks to the entity structure or depreciation eligibility, and coordinates with your aviation broker or transaction counsel on the mechanics of the agreement.
Rustin works with specialized aviation title and escrow providers who conduct the N-number registration history search, identify recorded liens or encumbrances through the FAA Aircraft Registry, and manage the closing timeline, including the FAA Bill of Sale (AC Form 8050-2) and registration transfer filings. We coordinate that process and stay involved so nothing falls through.
Entity selection affects liability exposure, FAA registration eligibility, and tax reporting. Rustin structures the holding entity before the transaction closes so your aircraft is properly positioned for FAA compliance and long-term ownership.
For buyers using the aircraft for business purposes, Rustin analyzes Section 179 expensing and bonus depreciation under IRS Publication 946 to help you evaluate and pursue available deductions. Section 179 and bonus depreciation only apply if business-use thresholds are met, since aircraft are listed property under federal tax law. Rustin structures ownership and documentation to support eligibility before the purchase closes.
For buyers acquiring an aircraft as part of a business deal or fleet purchase, our Mergers & Acquisitions practice handles the full scope.
Strategy and Transaction Review
Your engagement begins with a consultation where Rustin reviews the specifics of your purchase or sale: the aircraft, the counterparty, the proposed deal terms, and your business use plans. This step establishes the legal framework for the transaction, including initial recommendations on ownership structure, so that concerns are identified before they become costly surprises.
Ownership Structure, Tax Design, and FAA Coordination
Rustin designs the ownership entity and tax structure for the transaction, and advises on how deal terms affect both. He also coordinates with aviation title and escrow professionals who conduct the FAA Aircraft Registry title search, identify any recorded encumbrances, and prepare closing documentation, including the FAA Bill of Sale (AC Form 8050-2) and registration transfer filings. Rustin stays involved throughout to ensure the ownership structure and tax position remain intact as the transaction moves toward closing.
Closing, Registration, and Post-Closing Follow-Through
Rustin coordinates with the escrow and title team to ensure the closing timeline stays on track and that the ownership entity is in place before funds move. The escrow provider manages the mechanics of the closing, including funds, signatures, and FAA filing sequencing. Rustin's role is to ensure the legal and tax structure is finalized and properly documented before the process is complete.
After closing, Rustin confirms that your ownership structure is in place and that your entity is positioned to claim available tax deductions under Section 179 or bonus depreciation. Any follow-up on the registration transfer is coordinated with your title and escrow team.
The earlier you involve counsel, the more options you have. Once a letter of intent is signed or funds are placed in escrow, your leverage to fix a contract term, resolve a title issue, or restructure ownership for tax purposes narrows quickly.
Call (801) 938-4035 or book your consultation online before you sign the letter of intent or open escrow, while all options are still on the table.
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