Which condition preserves the FBO's lien on the aircraft?

The preservation of an FBO's (Fixed Based Operator) lien on an aircraft is significantly influenced by the filing of documents with the FAA. This is because a lien is a legal claim on the property as security for a debt or charge. In the aviation context, registering the lien with the Federal Aviation Administration ensures that the claim is publicly recorded, providing notice to other parties that the FBO has a right to the aircraft due to unpaid services or fees. This legal filing is necessary to protect the FBO's interests and establishes a priority claim over any subsequent purchasers or lenders associated with the aircraft.

While being stored in the company hangar can indicate a relationship between the aircraft owner and the FBO, it does not create or preserve the lien without proper documentation. A written contractual agreement may support the FBO’s claim for payment but does not by itself preserve the lien unless also filed appropriately. Similarly, a verbal agreement lacks the enforceability and notice provided by formal documentation, and thus does not adequately protect the FBO's interests. Therefore, the requirement to file documents with the FAA is essential for maintaining the validity of the lien on the aircraft.