selling an aircraft

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 11, 2024
 

Contact: Tracey Cheek  
tlc@nafa.aero   
405.850.1292 

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.

Contact Information: 

Tracey Cheek  
TLC@NAFA.aero  
(405) 850-1292  
 

Denise Wilson, CAM
denise@thejetagent.com
(480) 955-JETS

 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: The Jet Agent 
 

Edgewater, MD — October 31, 2024 - National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that The Jet Agent has recently joined our network of aviation professionals. The Jet Agent provides expert representation to help clients navigate the complex process of buying or selling a jet. Specializing in Citation aircraft, they offer a range of services, including aircraft valuation, negotiation, and transaction management. The company has a team of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing their clients with the highest level of service. 

“NAFA members proudly finance, support or enable the financing of general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world, and we are happy to add The Jet Agent to our association,” said Ed Medici, President of NAFA.   

“As Citation sales and acquisitions specialists, we wouldn’t be successful without the partners in aviation finance,” said Denise Wilson, Founder and President of The Jet Agent. We're proud to join the NAFA family and look forward to collaborating to network and learn from the membership and provide industry insights on the markets we serve.” 

For more information about The Jet Agent, visit thejetagent.com. 

About The Jet Agent: 
Founded in 2023 by Denise Wilson, CAM, The Jet Agent leverages decades of experience to help aircraft buyers and sellers achieve their dream outcomes when buying their first or jet or transitioning to their next. As a jet broker, acquisition representative and private aviation consultant, The Jet Agent offers concierge-level service throughout jet acquisitions and sales, ensuring clients become well-informed jet owners. Specializing in Citation jets, the firm’s expertise spans training, management, maintenance, operations and oversight, as well as seamlessly guiding clients through the entire process. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, The Jet Agent demonstrates its commitment to industry excellence as a member of the Citation Jet Pilots Association, The Arizona Business Aviation Association and the National Business Aviation Association.  

For more information, subscribe to monthly Citation aircraft market reports at thejetagent.com/aircraft-market-reports, call (855) 525-JETS and follow The Jet Agent on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. 

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for 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. The company now has three offices: Geneva, New York City and Dubai. 

Looking to join NAFA? Reach out to admin@nafa.aero for more information. 

NAFA member David G. Mayer, Partner with Shackelford, McKinley & Norton LLP, discusses what it takes and who it takes to successfully complete an aircraft purchase.

No one should buy a used aircraft on the fly. But that does not mean the parties cannot, or should not, move quickly and efficiently to close a purchase. Some prospective purchasers treat buying an aircraft as if it is just like acquiring real estate, a car, or a boat. However, those purchases do not trigger similar complex and intersecting regulatory, liability, tax, risk management, financing/leasing, and technical equipment issues.

Sometimes trying to pace or schedule an aircraft purchase from any point in the deal continuum to closing seems more aspirational than practical. After more than four decades of practicing law, it seems no deal is the same; no deal is “simple;” and few purchases occur without external factors complicating decisions such as the U.S. presidential election, turbulent geopolitics, and economic conditions. How, then, does a purchaser start this buying journey, and what should the purchaser expect to happen?

Transaction Teams

First and foremost, a potential purchaser should hire an aircraft broker with aircraft market knowledge, strong business aviation industry relationships, team-oriented negotiating skills, and economic analysis capability. Some technical consultants also function well as brokers. Such brokers know and, in real-time, can apply to purchase decisions such factors as increasing aircraft inventories, constraints on pilot availability and high compensation, declining interest rates, and fluctuating prices in different aircraft makes and models.

Second—or first to help assess team members—a purchaser should select an aviation lawyer with deep aviation legal knowledge and deal experience, wide industry contacts, and a sense of urgency aligned with the client’s objectives.

Third, the lawyer and broker can and should recommend other appropriate aviation resources, including aviation insurance brokers, tax accountants, technical consultants, FAA counsel, and escrow and trust companies. These people, acting concurrently with the lawyer and broker, can help pick up the pace, facilitate a smooth closing, and enhance the quality of services to the parties.

Aviation professionals understand how to work rapidly, interactively, and responsively in tight coordination with their seller and purchaser clients while avoiding mistakes like those I previously identified (see “AINsight: 7 Avoidable Mistakes in Acquiring a Bizjet”).

Unfortunately, in my experience, some purchasers seem reluctant or decline to incur the expense for these resources, even in large aircraft purchases. They believe their inside counsel or other non-aviation lawyer alone can manage the process and aviation issues. Through no fault of those lawyers, the choice may result in significant mistakes such as operating the aircraft in violation of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), incurring sales tax, structuring to limit personal liability, and reducing federal income tax benefits.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by AIN on September 13, 2024.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 2, 2024

Contact: Tracey Cheek  
tlc@nafa.aero   
405-850-1292  

Alex Martin
alex@aircraftcash.com
859-694-8589  

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Aircraft Guarantee & Lending  

Edgewater, MD – August 2, 2024—The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Aircraft Guarantee & Lending has recently joined its network of aviation professionals. Aircraft Guarantee & Lending (AGL) is an aircraft loan and insurance brokerage. 

“Aircraft Guarantee & Lending 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 AGL to our growing organization and enhancing opportunities for all our members.”  

About Aircraft Guarantee & Lending: 
Aircraft Guarantee and Lending is a family-oriented company dedicated to providing comprehensive financial solutions for the aviation industry. With a focus on aircraft financing and insurance, they offer competitive rates and personalized service to clients nationwide. Their partnership with AirMart Aircraft Sales & Brokerage allows them to streamline the aircraft purchasing process and provide clients with a one-stop shop for all their aviation needs. 

Additionally, Aircraft Guarantee and Lending is committed to supporting the aviation community through various initiatives and partnerships. They are known for their exceptional customer service and dedication to building long-term relationships with their clients. “AGL partners with multiple banks that are NAFA members,” says spokesperson Alex Martin, “We are excited to grow our banking relationship with new banks and provide banks with indirect aircraft loan volume.”  

To learn more, visit aircraftcash.com.  

About NAFA:   
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for over 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 on 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. 

An aircraft purchase and sale agreement is the central document in any aircraft transaction, setting forth the most important terms of the deal. Gerrard Cowan with AvBuyer asks industry experts to outline the major focuses in such agreements.

According to Stephen Hofer, President of Los Angeles-based Aerlex Law Group, not only does the aircraft purchase agreement set forth all essential commercial terms of the transaction, but it serves as the roadmap to guide all parties – particularly the seller, buyer, brokers and escrow company – as they navigate their way from the point of signature to the point of closing and delivery.

It is, therefore, vital to pay careful attention long before it comes to signing on the dotted line, he says. When the parties are ready to begin drafting a purchase and sale agreement, they will already have reached a meeting of the minds on the most basic points, such as what is being sold and the sale price.

Complications can arise in determining the delivery conditions, however. “In what condition, exactly, is the seller agreeing to deliver the aircraft at closing?” Hofer highlights.

“Sellers and buyers often have not focused on this issue at the time a Letter of Intent (LOI) is signed, so it’s up to the lawyers, working with their clients, the brokers, the technical representatives and sometimes the Pre-Purchase Inspection facility, to reach a clear understanding of the specifications the aircraft will satisfy at the moment the seller hands over the keys at the delivery location.”

Depending on how the purchase agreement is drafted, the precise language regarding delivery condition can sometimes cost one of the parties thousands, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars because it will help determine what constitutes a discrepancy or ‘squawk’, and who’s responsible for fixing it.

“Very careful attention needs to be paid to the contract at this stage of the drafting,” Hofer stresses. 

Aircraft Purchase Agreements Handle the Unexpected

The purchase and sale agreement is central to a transaction not just because it defines an outline of how a deal is to proceed, but because it also contemplates “just about any sort of event, nuance or occurrence that might take place – those that are expected and unexpected”, Janine K. Iannarelli, President of Par Avion Ltd, shares.

Provisions to deal with the unexpected are perhaps the most important element, she says, because there needs to be a means to deal with something like damage occurring to the aircraft in the course of the transaction.

Unexpected events could also involve financial difficulties that impact the buyer or seller and their ability to conclude the deal. Iannarelli says she has even seen deals fall apart because one of the parties has passed away.

“You have to have a means with which to unravel the transaction in a fair and equitable fashion, because you can’t just break a deal,” she highlights. Usually, a financial solution is involved: the forfeiture of the deposit (or part of the deposit), for instance, or specific damages depending on the reason for the default.

Read full article here

This article was written by Gerrard Cowan with AvBuyer, and originally published on July 22, 2024.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 11, 2024 

Contact: Tracey Cheek 
tlc@nafa.aero  
405-850-1292 

Scott Oshman 
info@oshmanaviation.com 
817-661-0234  

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Oshman Aviation 

Edgewater, MD –July 11, 2024—The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Oshman Aviation has recently joined its network of aviation professionals. Oshman Aviation is an IADA-accredited aircraft dealer that provides aircraft sales, management and consulting services. 

“NAFA members proudly finance, support or enable the financing of general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world, and we are happy to add Oshman Aviation to our association,” said Ed Medici, President of NAFA. 

About Oshman Aviation:
Established in 2017 and based in Fort Worth, Texas, Oshman Aviation is an IADA accredited aircraft dealer providing aircraft sales, management, and consulting services. The company specializes in business jets and turboprops, focusing on Beechcraft King Air and Cessna Citation models. Operating as an inventorying dealer, Oshman Aviation acquires and sells aircraft from its inventory while offering global brokerage services to its clientele.

“Oshman Aviation is proud to join NAFA as the industry-leading association for aircraft finance,” said Scott Oshman, Oshman Aviation’s President. “We look forward to partnering with NAFA members and are committed to providing current market data to NAFA members and their clients, facilitating informed decision-making in aircraft transactions.” 

When purchasing or selling an aircraft, assembling a team of trusted and experienced professionals is important for ensuring a smooth and successful transaction. This team should be vetted to ensure the highest ethical standards and levels of experience. Oshman Aviation is dedicated to providing its clients and partners with ethical, comprehensive and value-based services. 

To learn more, visit oshmanaviation.com. 

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for over 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 on 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. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 28, 2024 

Contact:
Tracey Cheek  
tlc@nafa.aero  
405-850-1292 

Marcelo Abello 
intljettraders@aol.com 
954-491-1941 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: International Jet Traders 

Edgewater, MD – May 28, 2024—The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that International Jet Traders has recently joined its network of aviation professionals. International Jet Traders services clients worldwide by selling and acquiring jets, turbo-prop airplanes and turbine-powered helicopters.   

“International Jet Traders 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 International Jet Traders to our growing organization and enhancing opportunities for all our members.”  

About International Jet Traders: 
Marcelo Abello, chief executive and founder of International Jet Traders, has specialized in the sales and acquisition of jet aircraft and helicopters since 1984. Marcelo formed International Jet Traders in 1991 to satisfy worldwide buyers and sellers of jets, turbo-prop airplanes and turbine-powered helicopters. Today, the company provides personalized aircraft brokerage and acquisition services to an ever-expanding international client base.  

Marcelo has built a reputation for integrity and customer-centric operations that focus on short and long-term client interests. Since the inception of International Jet Traders, the company has handled sales and acquisitions of over 500 aircraft. 

Sonya Sheldon, who assumed the role of Partner at International Jet Traders in January 2024, adds experience and technical knowledge to the company's leadership team. With over three decades of dedicated service in the Business Aviation sector, including notable roles as Vice President of Sales in the pre-owned aviation industry and as a Flight Test Engineer and Senior Sales Engineer at Gulfstream Aerospace, Sonya's arrival aligns seamlessly with International Jet Traders' commitment to delivering top-quality performance and personalized service. 

International Jet Traders focuses on corporate aircraft sales and acquisitions. This specialized approach ensures a commitment to negotiating contracts that prioritize the client’s best interests. With access to the latest technology and market research, the company possesses correct and updated information on the pricing and availability of every registered airplane worldwide, enabling it to seize key opportunities that maximize clients' return on investment.  

The company works closely with a select clientele to help them achieve their corporate aviation goals, fostering long-lasting business relationships that provide value to their client’s aviation departments. The company’s success is clear in its impressive track record, with much of its business coming from repeat customers. The team leverages its industry knowledge to identify strategic opportunities quickly and cost-effectively while maintaining high ethical standards.  

For more information, visit http://www.intljettraders.com/. 

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for over 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 on 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. 

There are signs that the used aircraft market has hit bottom.

Anyone who makes their profession within the business aviation industry is well aware of what happened to seemingly everything we touch relative to business aircraft as a result of the pandemic. During that time of uncertainty, everything became scarce and expensive.

Now, nearly four years later, we all can likely agree that things have loosened up for a vast majority of us who work in and around business aircraft—to a certain degree. I cannot speak to all sectors of the industry, but I can speak to the aircraft resale market. Let’s look back and also forward to see where it puts us now.

Depending on the source of the data chosen, it will show in approximate terms that the supply of for-sale preowned business aircraft was at an all-time low in early 2022, at approximately 2 percent of the fleet. It hit a high of about 6 percent four months ago and, at present, it is just off that high. What we have defined as “normal” in years past is approximately 7 to 8 percent of the fleet for sale at any given time. But it makes me wonder: is 6 percent the “new normal”?

Read full article here

This article was written by Leading Edge Aviation Solutions and originally published in Aviation International News AINsight on March 22, 2024.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 6, 2024 

Contact: Tracey Cheek 
tlc@nafa.aero  
405.850.1292

Joseph Dail 
Finance & Insurance Specialist 
406-FLY-1-NOW 
C: 336.380.0447 
joseph@lifestyleaviation.com 
www.lifestyleaviation.com 

 
NAFA Welcomes New Member: LifeStyle Aviation 

Edgewater, MD –  National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that LifeStyle Aviation has recently joined its network of aviation professionals. Lifestyle Aviation is dedicated to broadening access to aviation for individuals and businesses, offering innovative ownership and financing options that make owning a plane more affordable and attainable.  

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

About LifeStyle Aviation: 
LifeStyle Aviation is committed to realizing the dream of flight for everyone by providing access to modern, innovative aircraft for personal and business use. Beyond aircraft sales, the company fosters a community of aviation enthusiasts passionate about flying.   

LifeStyle Aviation distinguishes itself through its specialization in the Diamond Aircraft line, known for its cutting-edge technology, safety features and efficiency. LifeStyle Aviation is also dedicated to empowering pilots through comprehensive training programs offered through its network of flight schools, ensuring pilots of all skill levels have the knowledge and confidence to take to the skies safely.  

In addition to aircraft sales and training, LifeStyle Aviation serves as a hub for aviation enthusiasts. The company hosts events, seminars and fly-ins where pilots can come together to share their passion for flights and connect with others who share their love of the sky.  

Joseph Dail, Head of the Finance and Insurance Department, plays an important role in realizing aviation dreams. He has expertise in aviation financing and insurance and ensures customers have access to flexible and affordable options for purchasing and protecting their aircraft.  

Whether seeking financing to purchase a first plane or the right insurance coverage to protect your investment, Joseph and his team guide clients through every step of the process. With a commitment to innovation, safety, and community, LifeStyle Aviation doesn’t just sell planes; it helps people discover the joy of flight and make it part of their lifestyle.  

For more information, visit lifestyleaviation.com.   

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for 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 on 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. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 8, 2024 

Contact: Tracey Cheek  
tlc@nafa.aero  
405.850.1292

Eric Hammer 
President 
336.553.8888 
ehammer@integrityjets.com 
integrityjets.com 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Integrity Jets    

National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Integrity Jets has recently joined its network of aviation professionals. Led by industry veteran Eric Hammer, Integrity Jets is a boutique aircraft brokerage firm that provides brokerage, acquisition and market intelligence services.   

NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. “We’re excited to welcome Integrity Jets to our growing organization. Their services enhance NAFA’s available offerings, and we support their services to advance our members.” 

About Integrity Jets: 
Integrity Jets connects buyers and sellers of private aircraft. The company offers comprehensive brokerage services tailored to each client’s needs.   

Integrity Jets understands that buying or selling an aircraft is a complex and time-consuming process, and engaging with Integrity Jets ensures clients experience the most stress-free, efficient and financially beneficial transaction possible. The company is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and meeting each client’s unique requirements and preferences. 

About Founder Eric Hammer:  
With 33 years in the aerospace industry, Eric Hammer recently launched Integrity Jets. For the past 22 years, he has specialized in representing buyers and sellers of business aircraft.  

Hammer’s mission is to establish Integrity Jets as a trusted, strategic and tactical partner for clients in acquiring and disposing of their business aircraft.  

Hammer’s background includes: 

• Overseeing the sale and acquisition of over 225 turbine-powered aircraft. 

• Leading pre-owned aircraft sales efforts at Embraer for nearly a decade. 

• Managing new and used Citation and Caravan sales at Cessna for eight years. 

• Serving for 11 years in NASA’s Mission Control Center in Houston as a Flight Dynamics Officer for the nation’s space program.  

• Holding a commercial, multi-engine, instrument-rated pilot certification.  

• A 20-year veteran of the Navy Reserve 

• Earning a Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering 

• Achieving the title of five-time Powerlifting National Champion.  

For more information, visit integrityjets.com.   

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for 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 on 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. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 28, 2024 

Contact: Tracey Cheek 
tlc@nafa.aero  
405.850.1292

Jared Hasty 
Co-Founder 
770.233.7518
Sales@piedmontjets.com  
https://www.piedmontjets.com 
 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Piedmont Jets    

National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Piedmont Jets has recently joined its network of aviation professionals. Piedmont Jets is a highly specialized, boutique aircraft brokerage and acquisition firm.  

“Piedmont Jets 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 Piedmont Jets to our growing organization and enhancing opportunities for all our members.”  

About Piedmont Jets: 
Piedmont Jets leverages experience, efficiency and expertise to navigate clients through aircraft transactions. Driven by a team of experienced pilots with a love of aviation and building lasting relationships, Piedmont Jets aims to make transactions simple and seamless. 

After careful analysis backed by industry-leading data, the Piedmont Jets team will source worldwide, on and off-market opportunities while managing the details of the procurement process.  

Piedmont Jets provides a roadmap so clients are informed and empowered throughout the acquisition. The Piedmont Jets team uses its tools, processes and industry relationships to ensure maximum exposure and return on clients' investments. 

For more information, visit piedmontjets.com.  

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for 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 on 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. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 7, 2024    

Contact: Tracey Cheek  
tlc@NAFA.aero  
405.850.1292  
 

Kelly Wolff
sales@jetAVIVA.com
Mobile:  321.258.5057
Office:  512.410.0295

NAFA Welcomes New Member: jetAVIVA

The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is thrilled to welcome jetAVIVA, a global leader in pre-owned aircraft sales and acquisitions, to its esteemed network of aviation professionals. As one of the world's largest private jet sales organizations, measured by total annual transaction volume, jetAVIVA brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the NAFA community. 

“NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President. “We’re excited to welcome jetAVIVA to our growing organization. Their services enhance NAFA’s available offerings, and we support their services to advance our members.” 

About jetAVIVA: 
For almost 20 years, jetAVIVA’s expert team has assisted thousands of clients in purchasing and selling aircraft, providing expertise in the aviation industry to streamline transactions and ensure a smooth and successful process. jetAVIVA's specialized services can enhance transaction outcomes for NAFA members and their clients, making them a valuable partner in any deal. Additionally, jetAVIVA keeps a pulse on the state of the aviation market, providing NAFA members with up-to-date insights and trends. 

jetAVIVA CEO Emily Deaton comments, "jetAVIVA is dedicated to supporting NAFA's membership with our expertise and established track record of success. We look forward to contributing to the association’s mission to provide the highest quality services the industry has to offer.” 

To learn more about jetAVIVA, visit https://jetaviva.com.  

About NAFA:   
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for 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 on 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. To add your company to our world-class network of the best in aircraft finance, sign up at https://www.nafa.aero. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 11, 2023    

Contact: Tracey Cheek 
tlc@nafa.aero  
405.850.1292  

Eli Mansour 
emansour@swlaw.com  
858.910.4772 

NAFA Welcomes New Member: Snell & Wilmer  

National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Snell & Wilmer has recently joined its network of aviation professionals. Snell & Wilmer is an aircraft transaction advisory service that helps clients make the best decisions when buying, selling or owning a business aircraft.  

“We’re excited to welcome Snell & Wilmer to our growing organization. Their services enhance NAFA’s available offerings, and we support their services to advance our members,” said Ed Medici, NAFA President.  

About Snell & Wilmer: 
Founded in 1938, Snell & Wilmer is a full-service business law firm with over 500 attorneys practicing in 16 locations throughout the United States and in Mexico. The firm represents clients ranging from large, publicly traded corporations to small businesses, individuals and entrepreneurs. 

Snell & Wilmer’s aircraft law practice consists of knowledgeable attorneys experienced in the legal issues facing aircraft owners and operators, air carriers, flight schools and fixed base operators and other aviation-related service providers. They provide a full range of legal services related to the acquisition, ownership and operation of aircraft, tax planning and ownership structure, fixed base operators, maintenance and repair organizations and other aircraft service providers, FAA and DOT regulations, aircraft and component product liability and accidents and other aviation transactional and litigation matters.  

Snell & Wilmer attorneys have experience in federal, state and local legal issues applicable to aircraft operations and transactions. In addition, several hold FAA pilot licenses and have diverse operating experience, including charter operations and military aviation. 

For more information, visit swlaw.com. 

About NAFA:  
The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a professional association that has been promoting the general welfare of aircraft finance for 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 on 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. 

While engaging an aircraft broker adds a cost to the transaction, the benefits they bring in terms of expertise, market intelligence, time savings, and risk mitigation often outweigh the associated fees. However, choosing a reputable and experienced broker is crucial to maximize these advantages. NAFA member, Duncan Aviation was founded as an aircraft brokerage organization, and the Aircraft Sales & Acquisition team has been working with jet and turboprop owners on the sale and acquisition of aviation assets for more than 65 years.

There are 7 main reasons why you’ll need a broker when buying or selling a private jet.

1. Market Expertise: Aircraft brokers have in-depth knowledge of the pre-owned business jet market. A highly skilled brokerage team will be backed by an experienced technical team. They stay up-to-date on current market trends, aircraft values, equipment obsolescence, inspection programs, modifications, technical and performance specifications, and other relevant factors. This expertise allows them to provide valuable insights and guidance to clients, helping them make informed decisions in a complex marketplace.

Read full article here

Can you be sure a pre-existing lien on your aircraft won’t come back to bite you? Gerrard Cowan polls a selection of experts to understand the nature of liens, how to check and safeguard against them, and what to do if a notice of foreclosure is served...

Liens can be a complex factor in business jet ownership, posing financial challenges for aircraft operators. Owners must ensure they fully understand the nature of any liens on their own aircraft, according to industry experts, while buyers should secure the best possible industry advice in any transaction.

There is a wide array of liens that can attach to an aircraft, its engines, or related components. But it is liens relating to financing that tend to be enforced more than other types, according to Brian Macbean, Director of Credit & Sales at AOPA Aviation Finance.

“Any time the aircraft is used as collateral for a loan, the lender will file a lien on the aircraft. Lenders that specialize in aircraft financing often file liens on the aircraft, the engines, and the avionics,” he adds, pointing to the prevalence of mechanics’ liens, also.

Liens on US-based aircraft should always be filed with the FAA, Macbean notes. “Depending on the specific scenario, a Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) filing could also be an effective method to assert interest or influence relating to an aircraft.”

Liens generally fall into two categories, according to Lori McGee, Partner at Jetstream Aviation Law, including consensual and non-consensual liens.

Consensual liens are typically agreed-upon between a lender and an owner, or another party with an interest in the property, McGee elaborates. For example, this could include aircraft mortgages and security agreements.

Non-consensual liens arise by operation of law, not as the result of an agreement between the parties – mechanics’ liens being primary examples. In the US these are governed by state law and vary from one state to another.

“Although the specifics of this type of lien are different in each state, generally speaking [they] are meant to provide a person that performs work or supplies materials for an aircraft with an interest in that aircraft to secure payment for such work or materials," McGee says.

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This article was originally published by AvBuyer on November 20, 2023.