buying an aircraft

NAFA member, Shailon Ian, CEO of Vinci Aircraft Inspections, discusses audits.

It is widely agreed among quality management professionals that audits, both internal and external, are a powerful tool within quality management systems. Unfortunately, that is where the consensus ends.

When it comes to the details—where the devil lies—every manager and specialist has their own approach to audits, with distinct focuses, frequencies, and expected outcomes.

Excluding cases where an audit is merely conducted to check a box on another audit’s checklist, the vast majority of audits yield little practical value.

In theory, audits are an excellent concept. Their mere existence should encourage the auditee to be more diligent. However, in practice, managers often learn to comply with the checklist without considering the efficiency or effectiveness of their actions.

On the other side, often constrained by limited time, auditors rush through checklists in a superficial review, failing to probe deeper into the auditee’s responses.

Moreover, audit results are frequently scattered and disconnected. The task of transferring data from a report into a control system is often overlooked in daily operations. As a result, reports are either stored away in company servers or left hanging in folders, only to be retrieved when an internal auditor requests them.

All of this indicates that the audit process is stuck in the past. A revolution is needed to make audits more effective and truly impactful. Just as industries are transforming into Industry 4.0, audits must leap from Audit 1.0 straight to Audit 4.0.

But how?

The first step is to leverage industry forums focused on quality and operational safety to standardize key parameters:

● Interpretation of quality or safety standards being audited

● Standardization of acceptable compliance methods for the 20% most critical items

● Audit frequency for the same scope

● Auditor training and qualification

● Adoption of technology to streamline the audit process and integrate with existing company systems

Currently, companies within the same industry, subject to similar quality and safety standards, handle these aspects in vastly different ways.

Some industries even have forums for developing and revising quality and safety standards, yet they diverge in interpretation and evaluation during audits.

Beyond standardizing the interpretation of requirements, companies should establish clear, acceptable compliance methods for the 20-30% most critical items, with a structured approval process for each Means of Compliance (MOC).

Similarly, audit intervals and scopes vary widely. From my time as an auditor for the Civil Aviation Authority, I often compare audits to two different approaches in a burger chain: one company places an auditor at the end of the assembly line to bite into every sandwich to “ensure quality,” while another trains its team and regularly audits the process. Which one delivers better-quality burgers?

Auditing everything, one by one, is not always the best solution.

Even today, audits still heavily rely on the experience and judgment of auditors. While expertise is valuable, this inconsistency poses a challenge for data analysts trying to translate diverse observations into actionable insights.

Auditors should undergo structured training and qualification programs to reduce data variability and ensure consistency.

Lastly, companies must adopt tools that genuinely assist auditors in their work—not just digital forms or repositories for images and records. Simply digitizing an old process is not innovation. Instead, we need systems that support data collection and analysis using advanced machine learning and data processing technologies.

The time for revolution is now. Audit 4.0 is the tool that quality and safety management systems need to transform raw data into meaningful, actionable insights.

This article was written by Shailon Ian, CEO of Vinci Aircraft Inspections, and published to NAFA on April 9, 2025.

Contact Information: 
 

Tracey Cheek  
TLC@NAFA.aero  
405.285.7005 

Anthony Marchese 
anthony@marchesepropertyvaluations.com.au 
http://www.marchesepropertyvaluations.com.au/ 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Marchese Property Valuations 

Edgewater, MD — April 7, 2025 - The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is excited to announce that Marchese Property Valuations has joined its distinguished network of aviation professionals. 

 “Marchese Property Valuations (Australia) joining NAFA is a step forward in advancing our mission to improve and facilitate the financing process to support aircraft buyers,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. We welcome Marchese Property Valuations to our growing organization and enhancing opportunities for all our members.”  

As a specialist valuation and consultancy firm, Marchese Property Valuations (MPV) provides comprehensive property, business, and asset valuation services across Australia. Their expertise includes asset and vehicle valuations, estate administration, insurance matters, commercial and industrial property assessments, and market rent valuations. With a commitment to accuracy, transparency, and ethical service, MPV delivers reliable valuations that help clients optimize financial outcomes. Their international partnership with the VPC Group further enhances their ability to provide cross-border advisory services across the Asia-Pacific. NAFA is proud to welcome Marchese Property Valuations to our network.  

Anthony Marchese, CEO of Marchese Property Valuations, comments, “It is an honour to join the esteemed network of the National Aircraft Finance Association. This affiliation marks an important milestone in our continued commitment to providing high-quality, independent valuation services, and further strengthens our ability to support clients within the aviation finance sector both in Australia and internationally.” 
 

About Marchese Property Valuations: 
MPV combines decades of industry expertise with a commitment to professionalism, accuracy, and ethical standards. Our senior valuers – Anthony Marchese, Bonnie McIntosh, and Chris Mason – are all Certified Practicing Valuers, accredited by the Australian Valuers Institute (AVI). MPV also holds a strategic leadership position within AVI, with both Anthony and Bonnie serving as Board Directors. 

With a strong foundation in property, business, and asset valuation, our services span a wide range of needs. Our team’s diverse background enables us to deliver high-accuracy valuations with strategic insights that help clients optimize financial outcomes. MPV’s asset valuation capability is strengthened by Anthony Marchese’s engineering and asset expertise, developed through multi-million-dollar projects and international supply chain negotiations. 

MPV prides itself on client-focused, flexible service, expert witness support, and a high level of accuracy and professionalism in valuations. 

To learn more, visit http://www.marchesepropertyvaluations.com.au/. 
 

About NAFA: 
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for more than 50 years. Our network of members is comprised of lenders and product service providers who work together to finance general and business aviation aircraft. NAFA sets the standard for best practices in aviation finance by educating its members with the most up-to-date industry trends and best practices. Government legislation, market influences and industry insights allow member companies to provide the highest quality services the industry has to offer. 

Contact Information: 

Tracey Cheek  
TLC@NAFA.aero
405.285.7005 
 

Eric Helt 
EHelt@celticbank.com 
https://celticbank.com  

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Celtic Bank 
 

Edgewater, MD — March 27, 2025 - The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is excited to announce that Celtic Bank, has joined its distinguished network of aviation professionals. 

“NAFA members facilitate the financing of general and business aviation aircraft on a global scale,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. “We welcome and support Celtic Bank services that play a role in advancing the interests of NAFA members within the aviation industry.” 

Specializing in aircraft financing, Celtic Bank provides flexible loan solutions for business-critical aircraft, including turboprops, small jets, and rotary aircraft. With competitive rates, quick approvals, and tailored loan structures, they help aircraft owners and operators secure financing that aligns with their operational and financial goals. Their expertise extends to borrowers who supplement financing with charter income, offering customized solutions to optimize investments. By delivering fast and efficient funding, Celtic Bank ensures that clients can acquire and maintain their aircraft with confidence. NAFA is proud to welcome Celtic Bank to our network.  
 

About Celtic Bank: 

At Celtic Bank, we understand the unique needs of aircraft owners and operators. Whether you’re looking to finance a turboprop, small jet, or rotary aircraft, our flexible loan terms and quick turnaround times ensure you get the financing you need when you need it most. With aggressive rates and personalized solutions, we specialize in financing aircraft that are business critical. For borrowers who can augment their monthly payments with charter income, we offer tailored financing that supports your goals and operations. 

Learn more about Celtic Bank. 
 

About NAFA:  

The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for more than 50 years. Our network of members is comprised of lenders and product service providers who work together to finance general and business aviation aircraft. NAFA sets the standard for best practices in aviation finance by educating its members with the most up-to-date industry trends and best practices. Government legislation, market influences and industry insights allow member companies to provide the highest quality services the industry has to offer. 

Contact Information: 

Tracey Cheek  
TLC@NAFA.aero  
405.285.7005 

Kenneth Parzygnat 
954.931.0596 
kenparz@v1capitaladvisors.com 
www.v1capitalaircraftfinance.com 
 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: V1 Capital Aircraft Financing 

Edgewater, MD — March 14, 2025 - The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is excited to announce that V1 Capital Aircraft Financing has joined its distinguished network of aviation professionals. V1 Capital Aircraft Financing is a leader in connecting clients with a wide array of specialized lenders through its extensive network of lending partners. Their mission is to provide tailored, flexible financing solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients. 

“NAFA members facilitate the financing of general and business aviation aircraft on a global scale,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. “We welcome and support V1 Capital Financing’s services that play a role in advancing the interests of NAFA members within the aviation industry.”  

Their commitment to ensuring the best possible financing outcome for each client is evident in their personalized approach. V1 Capital Aircraft Financing’s range of services caters to various types of aircraft, from single-engine planes to multi-engine jets and helicopters. Whether it’s a personal, corporate, or utility aircraft purchase, they structure custom financing to meet each client’s unique needs and goals. V1 Capital Aircraft Financing’s depth of industry knowledge and strategic partnerships make them a valuable addition to NAFA’s growing network of aviation professionals. 

About V1 Capital Aircraft Financing: 

At V1 Capital Aircraft Financing, we take pride in offering a streamlined and efficient financing process that saves you time, hassle, and money. With over 30 years of industry experience, we leverage our deep knowledge to connect you directly with the lender offering the right product for your specific needs. This approach eliminates the need for you to repeatedly submit financial information to multiple lenders, saving you the effort and time of searching for the perfect match for your profile, usage, and equipment requirements. Our strong relationships with lenders allow us to secure more favorable terms on your behalf. By prequalifying borrowers, we reduce the lenders' workload of vetting unqualified applicants, which often results in better terms and cost savings that we pass directly to you. Learn more at https://www.v1capitalaircraftfinance.com.

About NAFA:  

The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for more than 50 years. Our network of members is comprised of lenders and product service providers who work together to finance general and business aviation aircraft. NAFA sets the standard for best practices in aviation finance by educating its members with the most up-to-date industry trends and best practices. Government legislation, market influences and industry insights allow member companies to provide the highest quality services the industry has to offer. 

Contact Information: 

Tracey Cheek  
TLC@NAFA.aero  
405.285.7005 

Holly Quist 
713.554.0727 
Holly@EMCJET.com 
http://www.emcjet.com  

NAFA Welcomes New Member: EMCJET 
 

Edgewater, MD — March 14, 2025 - The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is excited to announce that EMCJET has joined its distinguished network of aviation professionals. 

“NAFA members facilitate the financing of general and business aviation aircraft on a global scale,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. “We welcome and support EMCJET’s services that play a role in advancing the interests of NAFA members within the aviation industry.”  

EMCJET is an industry-leading full-service aircraft brokerage and management company specializing in buying, selling and managing aircraft at an international level. With over $4.1B in transactions, 373 aircraft bought and sold, and over 281 successful acquisition listings, EMCJET’s mission is to deliver a seamless and sophisticated aircraft service experience, tailored to perfection for every client we serve. 

Representatives from EMCJET commented, "Joining The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is an exciting opportunity for EMCJET. We look forward to connecting with industry leaders, expanding our network, and staying at the forefront of aircraft finance trends. NAFA’s resources and community will help us enhance our financing solutions and better serve our clients with expert insights and strategic partnerships.” 

About EMCJET: 

EMCJET’s expert team leverages in-depth knowledge and advanced tools to guide clients through every aspect of aircraft ownership, ensuring the best financial outcome aligned with their unique needs. Through a consultative approach, EMCJET prioritizes exceptional customer service, provides clear guidance, and structures every step of the process for success—delivering results that exceed expectations. 

For those seeking trusted expertise in aircraft transactions, EMCJET stands as a premier partner, combining precision, insight, and personalized support in aviation services. Learn more at https://emcjet.com   

About NAFA:  

The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for more than 50 years. Our network of members is comprised of lenders and product service providers who work together to finance general and business aviation aircraft. NAFA sets the standard for best practices in aviation finance by educating its members with the most up-to-date industry trends and best practices. Government legislation, market influences and industry insights allow member companies to provide the highest quality services the industry has to offer. 

Many purchasers and financiers fail to appreciate the implication of how an aircraft will be operated post closing, whether under FAR Part 135 or Part 91, during the sales process. Parts 135 & 91 apply to operations of aircraft and the particulars of these parts will govern not only how, when, and where the aircraft can be operated post-closing, but also what equipment, certification and licensing the aircraft and crew will need as well as the availability of aircraft and engine support programs. In addition to the FARs, depending on the proposed operation, the economic aviation regulations of DOT may also need to be considered.

From on-demand air taxi operators to private non-commercial operators, operational issues can be complex and can create challenges for structural arrangements that purchasers as well as financiers may not anticipate. This may be particularly true if the intent is for operation of the aircraft not only domestically, but also internationally. While international operations may present unique challenges, such challenges can be overcome without jeopardizing the value or security of the aircraft.

In this webinar, we discussed:

• What lessors/financiers need to know about commercial/non-commercial and domestic/international operations and the implications of these operations on leases and security interests.
• What questions transaction attorneys should consider during the sale/purchase process in counseling purchasers and financiers regarding the intended post-closing operation of an aircraft.
• What insurance brokers need to know for proper underwriting and to ensure proper coverage based upon the post-closing operations of the aircraft and equipment, certification and licensing required for aircraft, operators, and crew.

View the Recording
 

This NAFA webinar originally aired on March 12, 2025.

What can buyers of business and private aircraft in the USA hope for in 2025 in terms of potential tax benefits from their purchases? Experts share their insights with Chris Kjelgaard.

Aircraft buyers based in the US who plan to use their new and used planes primarily for business purposes have entered 2025 with reasons for hope that the year might prove favorable in terms of the tax treatment the US Federal Government affords their newly acquired aviation assets.

That hope is new, and it follows a year in which the tax picture at both US federal and state level for aircraft buyers began to show early signs of darkening.

In 2024, under what proved to be the outgoing Biden Administration, the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) pronounced that it would direct greater scrutiny toward finding out to what extent owners were using their aircraft for business purposes – as legislation conferring tax benefits on purchases of aviation assets meant them to do.

The IRS further indicated it would put that scrutiny into practical effect by conducting increased numbers of tax audits on owners of new and used business and private aircraft.

That planned intensification of IRS focus would mean those owners who couldn’t document clearly that at least 50% of the flying they conducted with their aircraft during the year would be ineligible for the bonus depreciation schedule available, under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

As matters stand today, the act’s provisions for bonus depreciation on aircraft and various other purchased assets are scheduled to end in 2027.

But the dawning of 2025 – and with it the assumption of power by the Trump Administration – has brought what is widely expected to be a dramatic sea change in the US Government’s regulatory ethos as it affects many areas of business. That sea change is expected to include a relaxation of tax legislation, and perhaps a contraction in the size and oversight power of the IRS.

As of this early-February writing, it remains to be seen to what extent the Trump Administration will honor the political promises the incoming Administration made during last year’s Presidential campaigning process.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by AvBuyer on March 5, 2025.

Contact Information: 
 

Tracey Cheek  
TLC@NAFA.aero  
405.285.7005 
 

Preston Holland 
423.681.2929 
preston@prestige.aero 
www.prestige.aero

 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Prestige Aircraft Finance 
 

Edgewater, MD — March 11, 2025 - The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is excited to announce that Prestige Aircraft Finance has joined its distinguished network of aviation professionals. Prestige Aircraft Finance is a team of aviation finance professionals that ensure successful purchase transactions for all parties involved. As a modern generation of aviation finance brokers, they focus on enhancing customer experience and work closely with clients' transaction teams to ensure the smoothest aircraft transactions possible.

 “NAFA members facilitate the financing of general and business aviation aircraft on a global scale,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. “We welcome and support Prestige Aircraft Finance’s services that play a role in advancing the interests of NAFA members within the aviation industry.”  

Prestige Aircraft Finance offers a wide range of financing solutions tailored to various aircraft types, including single and multi-engine piston aircraft, turboprops, business jets, and helicopters. Whether assisting with personal, corporate, or utility aircraft purchases, they structure custom financing to meet each client’s specific needs and goals. From credit-based and asset-based loans for business jets to traditional financing and leasing options for helicopters, Prestige Aircraft Finance brings specialized expertise to every transaction, making them an excellent addition to NAFA's growing network of aviation professionals. 
 

About Prestige Aircraft Finance: 
At Prestige Aircraft Finance, we specialize in tailored financing solutions for piston and turbine fixed wing and rotor aircraft. As a next-generation aviation finance firm, we combine deep industry expertise with a modern, client-first approach—offering streamlined loan origination, transparent underwriting, and access to a curated network of top-tier lenders. Whether you’re acquiring a fractional share, financing a whole aircraft, or structuring a leaseback, our team ensures every deal is optimized for long-term value. More than just a brokerage, Prestige Aircraft Finance is built for those who demand efficiency, insight, and a financing partner as invested in their success as they are. Learn more at http://prestige.aero.
 

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for more than 50 years. Our network of members is comprised of lenders and product service providers who work together to finance general and business aviation aircraft. NAFA sets the standard for best practices in aviation finance by educating its members with the most up-to-date industry trends and best practices. Government legislation, market influences and industry insights allow member companies to provide the highest quality services the industry has to offer. 

Contact Information: 

Tracey Cheek  
TLC@NAFA.aero  
405.285.7005 

Johnathan Wright 
817.991.1204 
john@aircraftsolutions.com 
https://aircraftsolutions.com
 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Corporate Aircraft Solutions 
 

Edgewater, MD — March 11, 2025 - The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is excited to announce that Corporate Aircraft Solutions has joined its distinguished network of aviation professionals. The company is a full-service aircraft brokerage firm that specializes in guiding clients through market analysis, financial responsibility, and the full cost of aircraft ownership. By offering clear and comprehensive information, Corporate Aircraft Solutions helps clients make sound and sustainable decisions, ensuring their investments remain secure for the long term. 

 “Corporate Aircraft Solutions joining NAFA is a step forward in advancing our mission to improve and facilitate the financing process to support aircraft buyers,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. We welcome Corporate Aircraft Solutions to our growing organization and enhancing opportunities for all our members.”  

As part of their services, Corporate Aircraft Solutions acts as a trusted partner, offering expertise in every detail of the acquisition or sale process. The company’s focus on transparency and trust ensures that clients maintain control throughout the transaction, allowing them to stay prepared for future aviation needs.  

With this thorough and client-centric approach, Corporate Aircraft Solutions brings valuable insight and expertise to NAFA’s growing network of aviation professionals. Corporate Aircraft Solutions is looking forward to joining NAFA to build upon relationships formed over the past 20 years in the aviation sector. 

About Corporate Aircraft Solutions: 

Corporate Aircraft Solutions elevates your aircraft acquisition or sale experience, guiding you through a refined, personalized process that lets you stay focused on your journey, business, and success. 

“The financial impact of an ill-suited aircraft will far outweigh the price of expert representation,” says Johnathan Wright, president of Corporate Aircraft Solutions. 

Acting as a steward of your investment, we navigate every detail with care and financial responsibility, ensuring your purchase is sound today and sustainable for the future. From market analysis to final delivery, we provide a clear, comprehensive understanding of your aircraft’s total cost of ownership, because smart decisions start with complete information. 

More than a transaction, it’s a partnership built on trust, clarity, and expertise. Corporate Aircraft Solutions allows you to move forward with confidence, maintain control, and stay prepared for what lies on the horizon. Learn more at http://aircraftsolutions.com. 

About NAFA:  

The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for more than 50 years. Our network of members is comprised of lenders and product service providers who work together to finance general and business aviation aircraft. NAFA sets the standard for best practices in aviation finance by educating its members with the most up-to-date industry trends and best practices. Government legislation, market influences and industry insights allow member companies to provide the highest quality services the industry has to offer. 

Jetcraft delivers a five-year forecast of 11,202 pre-owned aircraft sales, totaling $73.9B in revenue 

A new generation is recognizing aircraft ownership as an essential business and travel tool, according to Ever Forward: The Pre-Owned Business Aviation Report . 

The report shows the share of Jetcraft buyers under 45 has nearly doubled in the last decade to a record 29% in 2024. Younger high-net-worth-individuals also lead pre-owned aircraft sales in emerging markets in the Middle East and Africa, fueling long-term industry growth. 

Jahid Fazal-Karim, Owner and Chairman of the Board, Jetcraft, says: “It’s no longer rare to see Millennials or even Gen Z becoming ‘new tech’ billionaires, selling companies in their 20s or inheriting family investments younger as part of the ‘Great Wealth Transfer.’ 

“At Jetcraft, by selling aircraft we sell time. Greater numbers of entrepreneurs under 45 are turning to business aviation to run their companies and support their lifestyles, drawn by the appeal of privacy, security and efficiency. With this changing demographic comes increased diversity – 42% of our younger buyers are from the entertainment industry, and 29% are women.” 

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Jetcraft on February 25, 2025.

NAFA Member, Amanda Applegate, Partner at Soar Aviation Law, shares Part II of The Complexities of Cross-Border Aircraft Transactions. 

Last month we explored purchasing a foreign registered aircraft and the necessary steps to move the aircraft onto the United State registry. This month we will examine the steps when an aircraft owner is selling their aircraft to a buyer who will be moving the aircraft from the United States registry to a foreign registry. While each country is different, certain key factors should be considered when an aircraft is being deregistered from the United States registry and registered elsewhere upon closing.

1. Export Certificate of Airworthiness The buyer will likely require, under the aircraft purchase and sale agreement (the “APSA”), that the seller deliver the aircraft with an export certificate of airworthiness. The cost of this should be borne by the buyer. The inspection facility will be responsible for producing the export certificate of airworthiness. As such, when selecting the inspection facility, it is imperative to understand the inspection facility’s experience with the types of inspections necessary to produce an export certificate of airworthiness. In addition, when the export certificate of airworthiness is issued, there may be exceptions listed on the certificate. As a seller, you do not want to be obligated to pay to resolve any exceptions. Therefore, if the buyer is allowed to resolve any exceptions prior to closing, necessary protections need to be built into the APSA.
2. Aircraft Improvements Prior to Closing Under the APSA it must be clear that the aircraft is being sold as a United States registered aircraft. Any modifications to the aircraft that may be necessary in order for the aircraft to be registered in a foreign jurisdiction are (i) completed after the sale occurs and (ii) at the expense of the buyer. However, circumstances and/or negotiations of the APSA may not allow for the foregoing limitations. If certain modifications are permitted prior to closing, protections for the seller (in the event the closing does not occur) need to be included in the APSA. Furthermore, prior to seller committing to such obligations, it is important to understand the amount of time any modifications will take and parts availability, as the timing of closing could be delayed as a result of the modifications. As an example, I have been involved in several transactions where the parts necessary to convert the aircraft were not readily available and such delay impacted the closing date.
3. Customs Export Aside from the deregistration process with the United States registry (FAA), there is a customs export process that must be accomplished with a United States customs broker. Seller has a duty to make sure the aircraft is property exported from the United States. The APSA should designate who hires and pays the United States customs broker, what role the parties will assume in the export process and, if possible, identify the specific customs broker.
4. Closing Location The closing location of the sale will be important to both parties and will be negotiated and documented in the APSA. Generally, as a seller you do not want to have the aircraft moved outside of the United States to a foreign jurisdiction prior to closing due to the risks of not closing and unfamiliarity with the closing process and tax consequences in a foreign jurisdiction.

Read full article here

Part I of this article can be found here.

This article was originally published by Soar Aviation Law on February 26, 2025.  

NAFA member Axiom Aviation, Inc. shares their process on selecting the right broker for your next aircraft transaction.

Aircraft purchase and sales transactions involve significant financial commitments and important decisions. Whether you are an experienced aircraft owner or a first-time buyer, it is crucial to have expert guidance as you prepare to buy or sell a jet. 

In addition to involving sizable sums, these transactions can be highly complex. Failing to navigate the challenges skillfully and obtain the desired results can be both frustrating and costly, and those risks are much higher if you do not have the support of an experienced broker. 

On the other hand, when you collaborate with the right team, an aircraft sales or purchase transaction is likely to go much more smoothly. But how do you find the best advisors? This article provides eight insights on choosing the right aircraft broker. 

Why Every Aircraft Buyer and Seller Should Use a Broker

The recommendation that everyone seeking to buy or sell a private jet should use the services of an aircraft broker makes sense at a high level. But going a little deeper, what are the risks of not working with a broker? 

One of the most obvious is overpaying or underselling. Determining the appropriate offer or asking price is challenging without the up-to-date market data a broker can access. You might easily find yourself paying too much as a buyer or receiving too little as a seller. That can be true based on the original offer or asking price and subsequent negotiations. 

Another risk is failing to understand and address any legal or regulatory requirements. An aircraft sale or purchase involves a considerable amount of documents and regulations to consider. Any errors or omissions in dealing with that paperwork can lead to delays or financial penalties. They can even invalidate the sale. 

Buying or selling aircraft without experienced assistance and, consequently, without access to a broker’s network and marketing channels can also mean missing suitable aircraft or potential buyers. Even if you find the right opportunity, you can still encounter hurdles related to the lack of pre-purchase inspection oversight from an experienced aircraft broker. 

Then, of course, the time and energy commitment when buying or selling aircraft on your own is not a risk but rather a certainty. For these and other reasons, sales and purchase transactions are much more effective when you collaborate with an industry expert.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Axiom Aviation, Inc. on January 30, 2025.

You’ve decided to buy a business aircraft – what now? Gerrard Cowan asks industry experts to outline the key questions for prospective buyers before they make their offer on a business airplane...

The precise issues to cover will depend on the aircraft buyer involved and the nature of their requirements. Nevertheless, there are several key aspects that anyone who’s interested in acquiring a business aircraft needs to consider.

Following are five key questions all business aircraft buyers should ask before making an offer on an aircraft of interest, according to a selection of industry professionals...

1. Is it the Right Aircraft for Me?

While it can be very easy to get caught up with an aircraft’s ‘ramp appeal’, the first and most critical question to ask yourself is ‘What’s my mission?’, according to Casey Miller, President of Latitude 33 Aviation.

Ramp appeal will soon fade if the aircraft is not capable of efficiently flying the mission needs it was purchased to fulfil. Equally, without keeping a firm handle on your flying needs, it is possible to overpay for a larger and more capable plane than you need.

“You want a jet that can fulfill at least 80% of your typical flight needs. If you’re chasing that extra 20%, you might end up with a larger, more expensive aircraft than you truly require,” Miller warns.

Take the example of a US buyer whose planned flights are mostly domestic (say 80%), with only occasional need (20%) for long-range flights with high-density seating requirements.

“Purchasing a plane that can also accomplish the latter will exponentially increase the acquisition and annual operating costs,” he highlights. “Instead, purchase the plane that is capable of your 80%, and charter other planes to accomplish the 20% - you will be far better off financially.”

It is wasteful to “buy a large Gulfstream if you are just hopping around local airports, even if you have the funds to buy one,” Steve Rogers, Managing Director of Aradian Aviation, argues.

By the same token, it is no good having something that lacks the range for longer trips if you will need them, even occasionally. “But how often are you going to do the longer trips? You can always stop for fuel if they are just once or so a month.”

Moreover, a potential aircraft owner should assess how many hours they’ve flown over the preceding 12-24 months and assess whether this is expected to change, according to Max Hooper, Co-Founder at Corporate Jet Consulting (CJC).

And they should look for any trends in terms of the distance flown or the number of passengers they typically carry. “Straight away this will narrow the number of aircraft which could suit their mission profile,” he notes.

Keller Laseter, Chief Commercial Officer at FLYING Finance, suggests buyers should analyze such details as the typical routes they plan to fly, passenger capacity requirements, runway accessibility and range.

“If the jet cannot accommodate their primary travel demands efficiently, it might lead to operational challenges, or unnecessary expenses (such as chartering), or having to go to an airport further away that meets the performance of the aircraft being used,” he warns.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by AvBuyer on February 3, 2025.

Industry experts share insights on what buyers should account for when considering the purchase of an aircraft formerly used in a fractional aircraft ownership program. How can nasty surprises be avoided? Felipe Reisch explores…

Buying a pre-owned aircraft requires a meticulous review of its airframe, interior, and maintenance history, among many other variables. These are all the more essential when the aircraft in question is a retired fractional ownership plane. Here's why...

While purchasing a former fractional ownership aircraft must account for the same variables, one of the defining differences is the higher utilization of former fractionally-owned planes, even though they are usually relatively new aircraft. And this will inevitably impact the times and cycles of the engines, airframe, and most likely the wear and tear of the interior. 

For those aircraft buyers who are thorough, and who hire the right expertise, there can be positive aspects to purchasing one of these pre-owned aircraft, and a competitive acquisition price tops the list. 

Stephan Krainer, CEO at Austria-based Primus Avia, believes these aircraft present a compelling value proposition, for example. “They tend to be more reliable than similarly aged aircraft due to the meticulous care they receive from operators who are intimately familiar with their fleets,” he highlights. 

Nevertheless, while H. Lee Rohde, III, President & CEO at New Hampshire-based Essex Aviation highlights that while there will be a reduced purchase price (due to the normally higher-than-average utilization of the aircraft), understanding where the engines are in their maintenance cycle is an important item to review. 

“There will be a certain percentage of buyers when the aircraft’s owner goes to sell this aircraft, that will rule aircraft of this nature out as an option [preferring] other aircraft that have a more traditional utilization, and original engines that were delivered with the aircraft,” he adds. 

Read full article here

This article was originally published by AvBuyer on January 15, 2025.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 11, 2024
 

Contact: Tracey Cheek  
tlc@nafa.aero   
405-285-7005

Andrew Gratton 
Chief Operating Officer 
andrew@wingform.com  
wingform.com 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Wingform 

Edgewater, MD - November 11, 2024 – The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce the addition of Wingform to its membership. Wingform, a leading provider of digital transaction management solutions for the aircraft industry, joins NAFA’s community of professionals dedicated to advancing the aviation finance sector. 

Wingform’s innovative platform offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed to streamline the aircraft buying and selling process. By leveraging technology, Wingform enables brokers and service providers to manage transactions more efficiently, reducing paperwork, improving communication, and enhancing overall customer experience. 

"We are excited to join NAFA and connect with a community of experienced professionals who share our commitment to innovation and efficiency in aircraft transactions," said Andrew Gratton, chief operating officer of Wingform. "Wingform's comprehensive digital platform streamlines the buying and selling process for aircraft brokers and service providers, and we believe our solutions will be a valuable asset to NAFA members." 

“NAFA members facilitate the financing of general and business aviation aircraft on a global scale,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. “We welcome and support Wingform’s services that play a role in advancing the interests of NAFA members within the aviation industry.”  
 

About Wingform:
Wingform is a revolutionary digital platform that streamlines the entire aircraft buying and selling process in one secure, user-friendly platform. Wingform empowers brokers and service providers to manage every aspect of a transaction, including communication with third-party service providers, document management, and escrow services. Wingform is designed to save time, reduce costs, and improve the overall transaction experience for all parties involved. 
 

About NAFA:
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit professional association serving the general and business aviation finance industry. NAFA's nearly 200 members include lenders, brokers, appraisers, attorneys, title and escrow firms, and other aviation finance professionals. NAFA promotes professionalism, education, and advocacy within the industry. 


This NAFA press release was originally published on November 11, 2024.