There is a really good article on AVweb about the pros and cons of leasebacks.  I highly recommend you read it before entering into a leaseback with us.  I considered the advice from that article when drafting our leaseback agreement.  There is a minor problem with their advice, though.  The author uses the terms "fixed costs" and "indirect expenses" interchangeably.  They can overlap, but they are not the same thing.  For example, insurance and storage fees are fixed costs, but they are "direct expenses", not "indirect".  If you owned a hangar with multiple aircraft in it, then the utilities, hangar insurance, mortgage, etc. would be "indirect expenses" as far as a particular aircraft is concerned.  It's all relative.  In a leaseback situation, such as what we offer, your costs consist of variable and fixed costs.  Variable costs only occur when the aircraft is used.  Fixed costs occur whether the aircraft is used or not.  We pay you a percentage over the variable costs.  The actual percentage depends on the type of aircraft and is determined for the life of the leaseback.

We are especially looking for a helicopter, a multi-engine airplane, or an aerobatic single engine tailwheel.  However, we will consider other types of aircraft—especially if it will benefit you and the type of training you seek.  If you don't already own an aircraft, we can help match you with the right aircraft for your needs.  If you have no experience in the aviation field, definitely contact us before buying!

With our leasebacks, you as the owner provide the aircraft and pay for its expenses.  Fitch Aerospace maintains operational control over the aircraft and pays you a set amount for every hour we use it.  There are no additional fees when you fly your own airplane.  We are in the business of training, not aircraft rental, so you don't have to worry about how rental pilots will tear up your investment.  Except for solo training requirements, one of our pilots will be ensuring your aircraft is properly cared for.

If you want to take advantage of our free flight training offer, you can get your initial pilot certificate, upgrade you current certificate (i.e. from private to commercial), or add an instrument or category/class rating.  There are only a few rules that apply:  The training must be done in your aircraft; we will not pay you the hourly rate when training you; our instructors will provide you with all flight and ground training necessary to earn the certificate or rating you are training for at no cost to you; you must pay any additional fees associated with your training, i.e. written test fee, medical exam fee, and pilot examiner's fee;  this offer is only good once in a lifetime per aircraft leased back; and the best rule ever is if you don't want or need any more certificates or ratings, you can pass this offer on to a friend or family member; and last, but not least, we ask that you make a minimum of one-year leaseback commitment with your aircraft.

Leaseback Information

Learn how to get your pilot certificate, upgrade your current certificate, or add a rating for free.

Q. What are the pros and cons of leasebacks?

A.  See the AVweb article about leasebacks.  There is some good information there.

• Pros:
  • The aircraft flies more often, which keeps it from deteriorating due to lack of use.
  • The rental income offsets the cost of ownership, and can even be profitable.
  • Fitch Aerospace, Inc. acts as the aircraft manager, making sure it is maintained properly and taken care of so you don't have to.
• Cons:
  • Your aircraft might not be available at the drop of a hat for you to use.  You have to schedule it ahead of time like everyone else.
  • The aircraft has to be based at the same airport as the flight school.