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How valid is the threat of lien and seize and sell threat by an aircraft mechanic for a false claim of purported bills?

ArizonaRight to Lien

Can an aircraft repair shop in AZ register a lien against the aircraft based on simply the purported bills inconsistent with terms of a written contract; especially after the repair shop provided a written notice of the breach of contract for delays in completion and refusing to complete the remaining work unless the purported said amount is first paid? The right amount for the jobs done to date was already prepaid. How serious or lawful is their threat to seize and sell the aircraft to recover their purported and unearned bills inconsistent to the quoted amounts?

1 reply

Oct 10, 2020

Yes the repair shop has the right to assert a lien for the value of the repairs, even where the amount owed is subject to dispute. The repair shop can also refuse to return the aircraft until the bill is paid. The customer has the option of suing the repair shop for breach of contract and replevin to obtain a court order to return the aircraft. If the customer decides to go that route, it would be better if the customer had paid any undisputed amount of the repair bill. Whether it is worth litigating as opposed to just paying the bill obviously depends on the amount of the disputed charges. It may well not be worth it.

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