Buying your first aircraft

AOPA Finance can help make your dream come true

July 28, 2026

AOPA has been offering aircraft financing to its members for more than 20 years.

Photography by Mike Fizer

Our goal is to make aircraft ownership more affordable and accessible to pilots. We offer a variety of loan structures including attractive fixed rates, five- to 20-year terms, and convenient auto-pay options. Purchasing an aircraft for the first time can be daunting, but AOPA Aviation Finance will provide you with the best financing options for your specific needs and help you through the process to make it as easy as possible. Our expertise in aviation and commitment to our members are why we see more aviation finance requests than any other lender or broker.

Four steps to purchasing your first aircraft:

Understand your financial picture
Buying an aircraft is more like buying a house than a car. Your budget needs to work within your financial situation.

Apply and get approved
Learn how your account executive will be your best resource and will be with you every step of the way to purchasing your first aircraft.

Negotiate the purchase
Ensure you are getting the right aircraft at the right price and that fits your budget; what you need to know about aircraft valuations, the prepurchase inspection, and the purchase and sales agreement.

Close on your first aircraft
You are just a few steps away from owning your first aircraft. Make sure you don’t miss anything.

finance.aopa.org/aviation-finance/first-time-buyers

Buying your first aircraft

AOPA Finance can help make your dream come true

Four steps to purchasing your first aircraft:

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