Best Aviation Finance Solutions for Fleet Expansion: Loans, Leases & ECA-Backed Credit
Best Aviation Finance Solutions for Fleet Expansion: Loans, Leases & ECA-Backed Credit
Growing your fleet means choosing the right financing mix. Whether you need term loans, operating leases, finance leases or export-credit support, each option has trade-offs in cost, balance-sheet treatment and flexibility. Below, we break down the three core solutions and explain how Financely’s lender network and ECA relationships deliver the best terms for your next aircraft acquisition.
1. Senior Secured Loans
Direct loans from banks remain the most straightforward way to finance aircraft. You borrow against the aircraft’s appraised value—typically 70–80% LTV—with maturities of 7–12 years. Interest is usually set at a floating rate (SOFR + 200–350 bps).
- Pros: Straightforward documentation, fixed amortization schedule, retains ownership risk and upside.
- Cons: Adds debt to your balance sheet, interest costs can fluctuate.
2. Operating & Finance Leases
Leasing transfers economic ownership to the lessor while you use the plane under a rental agreement.
| Lease Type | Key Feature | Typical Term |
|---|---|---|
| Operating Lease | Off-balance-sheet for lessee; flexibility to return or extend. | 2–7 years |
| Finance Lease | On-balance-sheet; purchase obligation or bargain-purchase option. | 7–12 years |
- Pros: Conserves capital (operating lease), predictable rates (finance lease), flexibility on fleet planning.
- Cons: Total cost may exceed outright purchase, lessor credit profile matters.
3. ECA-Backed Credit
Export-Credit Agencies (ECAs) like US EXIM, Euler Hermes and Coface support up to 85–90% of an aircraft purchase at subsidized rates. ECA facilities run 12–15 years and often feature interest rates near SOFR + 100–150 bps plus a small guarantee fee.
- Pros: Lower all-in cost, extended maturities, non-recourse structures in some jurisdictions.
- Cons: Strict origin requirements, longer setup (4–6 weeks), potential sovereign risk.
4. Tailored Structures
Combining loans, leases and ECA support can optimize your cash flow and balance-sheet profile. For example, you might use an ECA tranche for 60% of the cost, add a bank loan for 20%, and lease the remaining 20%. Our team designs multi-instrument packages to fit your fleet plan and credit profile.
How Financely Delivers Value
We’ve arranged over $12 billion in aircraft financing by tapping 15+ specialized banks, leasing houses and ECA programs. Our process accelerates term-sheet gathering, simplifies due diligence and secures competitive pricing—so you spend less time negotiating and more time operating.
Ready to expand your fleet with the optimal financing mix? Financely will:
- Map out the loan, lease and ECA blend that suits your balance sheet
- Activate our relationships to secure term sheets in under a week
- Manage documentation, appraisals and compliance end-to-end
Key Takeaways
- Senior loans, leases and ECA credit each serve distinct fleet-expansion needs.
- Fixed vs. floating rates, balance-sheet impact and maturity are critical trade-offs.
- Blended structures often unlock the best economics.
- Our $12 billion track record and 15+ funding partners deliver speed and savings.
Get Started With Us
Submit Your Deal & Receive a Proposal Within 1-3 Working Days
Submit your deal using our secure intake form, and receive a quote within 1-3 business days. Existing clients can connect with their relationship manager through our secure web portal.
All submissions are
promptly reviewed, and all communications are conducted through the intake form or the client portal for a seamless and secure process.
Thank you for considering working with us. A nominal fee of US$500 is required upon completion of each form. This fee covers the time and effort we invest in reviewing your submission and crafting a thorough proposal. We receive numerous inquiries and prioritize those that carry this fee, ensuring serious applicants receive prompt attention.
Trade Finance
Tap into solutions like letters of credit, bank guarantees, and payment facilitation. We address the challenge of global transaction risk through structured strategies that foster cross-border growth. Complete the form to unlock streamlined funding aligned with your commercial objectives.
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Access non-recourse funding for infrastructure, renewable energy, or other capital-intensive ventures. We mitigate capital constraints by isolating project assets and focusing on risk management. Provide your details to receive a structure that drives growth and maximizes returns.
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Secure financing for business or real estate acquisitions. We ease transaction hurdles by reviewing cash flow, synergy opportunities, and exit plans. Complete the form for a customized proposal that supports your strategic investment objectives.
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Financely assists banks facing Basel III pressures by distributing trade finance deals and providing collateral for letters of credit. We reduce capital burdens while preserving client relationships and fostering service expansion. Submit your request to optimize your trade finance offerings.
Submit a RequestOnce we receive your submission, our team will review your information to determine feasibility. If eligible, you will receive a proposal or term sheet within 1–3 business days. Visit our FAQ and Procedure pages for more information.
Disclaimer: Financely provides financing based on due diligence and feasibility. Approval is not guaranteed, and past performance does not predict future outcomes. All terms are subject to review. Financely primarily assists with structuring and distribution. Qualified parties carry out the project if the client approves the proposal.
