Flight training expenses can feel like they add up fast. A financing plan allows you to commit to the training all at once. For some students, completing training at a more regular pace helps them complete training in fewer training hours, bringing down the training cost.
These work like a personal credit line built for aviation. You get approved, the money lands in your own account, and you use it to pay for lessons and rental as you go.
A revolving line of credit backed by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, built around the cost of flight training rather than a traditional degree program. Interest only accrues on what you've actually drawn, not your full approved amount.
Up to $20,000, no down payment required
Rates 11.74%–13.74% APR; minimum 660 credit score
Payments run $25 for every $1,000 of outstanding balance; no deferment available
Sample payments: PPL from ~$150–300/mo, instrument from ~$175/mo, multi from ~$75/mo
Decision in about 1 business day; funds in 2–3 business days
Total unsecured debt can't exceed 30% of annual income; max 50% debt-to-income
Requires AOPA membership (discounted when you apply for the loan)
Foreign students eligible case-by-case, with loan term capped at the student visa length
A Florida credit union program built for pilots, offering a bigger credit ceiling than AOPA's and a lower rate. You draw down what you need, pay the school directly, and only pay interest on what you've actually withdrawn - not your full approved amount.
Unsecured line of credit, $5,000–$30,000, over a 72-month term
Rates typically 9.99%–11.99% APR
$299 processing fee; no pre-payment penalty
Two-year withdrawal window; payments start 30 days after your first draw and run roughly 2% of the total amount withdrawn - no deferment option
Requires 640+ credit score, at least 2 years of credit history (you or a co-signer), and provable employment income
Decision within 1 business day; funded in 2–3 business days
Already bank with someone? Many banks and credit unions offer personal loans or lines of credit that work just as well for flight training - sometimes at a better rate if you already have a relationship with them. It's worth a quick call to your own bank or credit union to compare terms before choosing a dedicated aviation lender.
Free money is still the best kind. A few well-established places to look.
Amelia Earhart & chapter scholarships
I'm not a lender and don't control loan terms, rates, or approval decisions - all financing is offered solely by the independent companies listed above. Review each lender's terms carefully before borrowing. I am not a financial advisor and this is not financial advice.