Bill > HB144

This bill clarifies and establishes a legal mechanism for mechanics liens on aircraft in Alabama. Specifically, it allows individuals who store, fuel, repair, or perform maintenance on an aircraft to place a lien on that aircraft for the amount due under a contract or, if no amount is specified, for reasonable and customary compensation. The lien is subject to certain conditions: for storage contracts, they must be either written or verbal with a storage period of at least 30 days. The lien is subordinate to any pre-existing security interests under the Uniform Commercial Code, unless the secured party authorized the maintenance work. To officially record the lien, the holder must file a verified document with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aircraft Registry within 180 days of completing the work, providing details such as the lien holder's contact information, the amount due, aircraft description, and owner information. For aircraft not registered in the United States, the lien can be recorded with the Alabama Secretary of State, who will maintain and index these records. The bill provides a structured approach to protecting service providers' financial interests in aircraft maintenance and storage, with clear guidelines for documentation and filing. The act is set to become effective on October 1, 2025.

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