Aircraft Financing FAQ.
Straight answers to the questions operators ask before financing or leasing an aircraft.
Is it better to lease or buy an aircraft for a business?
Lease when flexibility and cash on hand matter more than ownership, or when demand is still being proven. Finance when the aircraft stays core to the operation and utilization is predictable. Resale value and tax position usually decide close cases. Read the full guide.
Can a new flight school get aircraft financing?
Yes, though newer schools usually see larger down payments or lease structures. Lenders lean on owner experience, enrollment commitments and guarantees when operating history is short.
Does JetFinex lend the money itself?
No. JetFinex places your deal with banks, specialist lessors and private capital partners, then coordinates through closing. That independence lets the structure fit the aircraft.
Will starting a deal file affect my credit?
No. The deal file and our first reply need no credit pull. Lenders run their own checks only after you choose to move forward with them.
What aircraft can you finance?
Piston singles and twins, turboprops, light and midsize jets, helicopters, and training devices such as simulators, for business use. See aircraft guides.
How long does aircraft financing take?
It depends on the aircraft, the structure and the lender. You get the likely structures within one business day, and the full timeline once a lender issues terms.
How much down payment does an aircraft loan need?
It depends on the aircraft, its age, the borrower and the lender. Newer, common aircraft with strong borrowers need less down; older, rare or high-time aircraft and newer operators usually need more. The JetFinex loan calculator lets you test different down payments.
Is an operating lease cheaper than buying?
Over a full term, buying is often cheaper when the aircraft holds value, because you keep the resale proceeds. Leasing wins when value falls fast, when cash earns more elsewhere, or when you may not need the aircraft for the full term.
What is the difference between an aircraft finance lease and a loan?
With a loan you own the aircraft from day one and the lender holds a lien. With a finance lease the lessor owns it until you buy it at the end. Economically they are close: in both you carry the value risk and pay most of the cost plus a financing charge.
Do I lose control of the aircraft?
You keep operating it under the lease, which sets the rules on maintenance, use and return. Ownership moves to the lessor.
Is there a penalty for paying off an aircraft loan early?
Some loans have prepayment penalties, especially in the first years. Check your current note before you start.
Can a facility include simulators?
Often, yes. Flight training devices and simulators can be financed alongside aircraft, depending on the lender.