What to Prepare Before Applying for Aircraft Financing
Before applying for aircraft financing, gather the aircraft spec sheet and logbook summary, two years of business financial statements, a current-year profit and loss, utilization and revenue data tied to the aircraft, your operating certificate history and an insurance quote.
Key takeaways
- Complete files get faster and firmer terms.
- Operators should show how the aircraft earns, not only who owns it.
- Logbooks and damage history drive value as much as age.
- Check your readiness before you start.
What aircraft documents do lenders need?
- Spec sheet with make, model, serial number, year and equipment
- Total time, engine time since overhaul and propeller times
- Logbook summary, damage history and any major repairs or alterations
- Pre-buy inspection results, once available
What business documents do lenders need?
- Two years of financial statements or business tax returns
- Current-year profit and loss and balance sheet
- Ownership structure and guarantor information
- Operating certificate and history, for Part 135 and Part 141 operators
How do you show the aircraft will earn?
This is where operators win or lose. Bring hours flown per aircraft, enrollment or charter revenue, customer contracts, and a simple model of how the aircraft covers its costs. Use the charter breakeven or fleet planner tools to build it.
How long does aircraft financing take?
It depends on the aircraft, the structure and the lender. A complete file, a clean pre-buy and a clear title search are what keep closings on schedule. Missing documents are the most common cause of delay.
Aircraft Deal Readiness Score
Ten questions that show how financeable your request is today.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need the aircraft picked out before applying?
Not always. Some lenders will pre-qualify you, but final terms depend on the specific aircraft.
Will applying affect my credit?
Lenders run their own credit checks when you move forward with them. Starting a JetFinex deal file does not.
Sources
This guide is educational and is not tax, legal or investment advice. See our editorial standards and disclosures. Spot an error? Tell us.
