Pilot's hub
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started
How much deposit do I need?
Usually from 20% of the purchase price. The exact figure depends on the aircraft, its age and your circumstances, and we’ll tell you early on what’s realistic for you.
How long can I spread the cost over?
Up to 7 years, with the rate fixed for the whole term, so your monthly cost stays the same from the first payment to the last.
What is a balloon payment?
It’s an optional larger final payment that lowers your monthly repayments in the meantime. You can see the difference it makes in the calculator on our homepage.
Who can apply?
UK-based individuals, companies and special purpose vehicles (SPVs).
Can I buy from a private seller, or only from a dealer?
Either. We fund new and used aircraft, whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealer.
What types of aircraft do you fund?
Single and multi-engine pistons, light twins, piston and turbine helicopters, business jets, charter and AOC aircraft, and flight school fleets. See the aircraft we fund.
How it works
What is the difference between Hire Purchase and a Chattel Mortgage?
With Hire Purchase, the lender owns the aircraft until your last payment and a small “Option to Purchase” fee. With a Chattel Mortgage, the aircraft is in your name from day one and the lender registers a charge against it. We’ll explain which one suits the way you fly.
How long does it take?
It depends on the lender, the valuation and the seller. On our first call we’ll give you an honest timeline rather than a sales promise, and keep you updated as things move.
Will the aircraft need a valuation or inspection?
We coordinate the valuation as part of the process. We can also point you to independent licensed engineers, so you know exactly what you’re buying before you commit.
Can my flight school or business finance aircraft?
Yes. Companies can apply, and flight school fleet renewal, charter and AOC aircraft are a big part of what we do.
About us
Are you a lender?
No. Samera Sky is a broker and a trading name of Samera Finance Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 757431). We take your application to our panel of specialist aviation lenders.
How do you get paid?
Usually through a commission from the lender when your finance completes. We always tell you about it before you go ahead, and it never affects which lender we recommend. Any broker fee is disclosed at the start, and we never charge for declined applications.
Owning and selling
Can I sell the aircraft before the mortgage is paid off?
Absolutely. You simply pay off the remaining balance (the “settlement figure”), and the lender will issue a Discharge of Registered Mortgage (CA1577c), which is free to file with the CAA.
Does Samera Sky only fund G-Reg aircraft?
While we specialise in the UK G-Register due to the robust legal protections of the 1972 Mortgaging of Aircraft Order, we can facilitate financing for other registries if the aircraft is primarily based in the UK.
Is insurance mandatory?
Yes. You must maintain “Hull All-Risks” insurance, and the lender must be named as the “First Loss Payee.” This ensures that in the event of an accident, the debt is settled first.
What aircraft should I buy?
Buying an aircraft is a big commitment, both financially but also personally, and ensuring you choose the correct one is important. The best way to find UK GA aircraft is to check out websites such as Controller EMEA, AT Aviation or AFORS.
Feel free to reach out to us with your flying needs, and we would be happy to assist with the search!