FAT Frequently Asked Questions

Each reported transaction occupies a record and is assigned a six-digit FAT Code. The original FAT Code is repeated in a new record each time the transaction or event is reported.

Database Fields

FAT Code                      

six-digit serial number corresponding to a single aircraft and transaction/event

Aircraft Type               

aircraft type (e.g. A330, 767)

Aircraft Model           

aircraft model (e.g. -200F, -8F). Factory freighters are denoted by ‘F‘ as the last character; converted freighters are indicated in as much detail as possible (e.g., BDSF, PCF). Specialized freighter types include: ‘QC’ = Quick Change, ‘C’ = Convertible, ‘M’ = Mixed; aircraft without one of the above suffixes are usually passenger aircraft.

Reported Date

date (or date range) the transaction or event was reported in Cargo Facts or Cargo Facts Update

MSN                               

manufacturer serial number/construction number (c/n). Following common industry convention, MSN is used for Boeing, and c/n is used for Airbus aircraft.

From Party                   

source/seller/lessor of aircraft (may be blank when unknown or not applicable). In case of Orders, the ordering party is usually listed as the From Party.

To Party                        

destination/buyer of aircraft (may be blank when unknown or not applicable). In the case of Orders, the manufacturer or conversion house is usually listed as the To Party.

To Country                   

residence country of To Party. Most leasing companies’ legal addresses are Ireland, even though the head office may be in another country.

Event/Transaction    

brief description of transaction, or type of other event

Can I download the entire FATs database?

Yes, you can download it here.

Is the FATs data revised subsequent to publication?

Yes, in some cases, the FATs team will revise entries. Revisions, however, cannot be identified via the web interface. Only the complete FATs database in Excel contains notations that indication subsequent revisions.

Can I suggest changes or amendments to the FATs?

Yes, please contact us to propose changes. In your correspondence, we ask that you be as specific as possible about the changes or amendments you are suggesting.

How often is the data updated?

FATs data is updated monthly.