The International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) is raising professional standards for aircraft brokers with a comprehensive redesign of its Certified Aircraft Broker programme.

IADA Certified Aircraft Broker, Version 2.0 adds a three-month IADA U preparation period and a more globally focused examination to the two years of required transaction experience. It will launch following the 2026 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition, which takes place on 20–22 October in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The digital programme was developed through collaboration among IADA leadership, the independent credentialling organisation Joseph Allan and a committee of IADA dealers and brokers representing major business aircraft markets and regions. Joseph Allan contributes expertise in credentialling, instructional design, assessment and testing, while IADA members provide real-world transaction experience.

Candidates must complete an extended Certified Broker study course and a minimum three-month preparation period before taking the examination. Previously, qualified candidates could register and test without completing a prescribed course.

Lou Seno, IADA executive director, says: “This is about developing better brokers, not simply creating a harder test. IADA certification demonstrates a meaningful investment in understanding aircraft transactions and the huge responsibilities of representing buyers and sellers.”

Candidates will prepare using an extensive digital Certified Aircraft Broker study guide outlining key terms, transaction pitfalls, required skills and supporting references. The programme expands from seven knowledge domains to nine, adding Industry Structure & Segments and General Broker Requirements. The nine domains contain 79 published learning objectives, with every examination question tied directly to one of them.

Version 2.0 was also designed to reduce the previous emphasis on US-specific practices. Eight learning objectives specifically address cross-border issues, including the International Registry and Cape Town Convention, import and export requirements, CAMO, sanctions and export controls. The guide also includes a US and international terminology table.

Seno adds: “Our brokers routinely work across borders, regulatory systems and transaction structures. This certification programme reflects the marketplace in which our members actually conduct business.”

Version 2.0 is backed by an expanding IADA U education programme designed to continue professional development beyond initial certification. The first IADA U Education Series course, a seven-module programme on aviation insurance, is already live, with courses covering aircraft finance, contracts and aircraft appraisal in development.