Chad is the editor of AINalerts, AIN's daily business aviation newsletter, and is also the news editor at AIN Media Group.&nbsp;He has been writing about aviation, with an emphasis on business aviation, since 1994. Chad started his writing career at The Avion,&nbsp;the&nbsp;student newspaper at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida, serving as editor-in-chief before graduating with a bachelor's in aeronautical science. After a stint as managing editor at Professional Pilot&nbsp;magazine, he joined&nbsp;AIN in late 1998. Chad holds a commercial pilot certificated with instrument and multi-engine ratings, and he also is a CFI/CFII. He lives and works from his home in Venice, Florida.

Online Editor

Chad Trautvetter

In its inaugural quarterly report on aircraft financing sent to clients this week, Citi Private Bank said business aircraft financing, “like all other aspects of the business aircraft market, is experiencing ups and downs.”


Though the firm believes that the overall financing environment has improved recently and credit has become available, there is a new reality when it comes to financing a business aircraft. This includes the fact that underwriting and client qualification criteria are still quite stringent, it said. Further, Citi noted, most institutions now want a “wider relationship” with the client and “will not consider financing an aircraft without a substantial client relationship.” In addition, the “old ‘30 Rule’ that the sum of an aircraft’s age and the term of the loan should not exceed 30 years has been replaced by a new ‘20 Rule.’”


Given the improvement in the pre-owned business jet market, which it said is one of the “most telling” barometers of recovery for the industry as a whole, Citi believes there are currently good opportunities for buyers. “In our opinion, there are excellent quality aircraft available at attractive prices and buying newer aircraft that are less than 10, preferably five, years old, and models that have seen recent significant technological improvements, presents opportunities,” it said. “We believe there is a limited window in which to take advantage of these opportunities, as inventories of the newer, more attractive aircraft continue to shrink.”

News about bills, laws, regulations and other governmental decisions affecting aviation and aerospace. Topics include FAA re-authorizations, taxes on fuel and aviation activities, environmental legislation, ICAO decisions, governmental mediation of labor conflicts and World Trade Organization disputes and decisions.

Bizav Financing Improving, but with Some Caveats

2024 Corporate Aviation Leadership Summit

Jessica Reed

News and issues concerning the aviation charter and fractional-ownership industries and markets, including company announcements, regulations, new developments and labor issues.

News and issues relating to business, corporate and private aviation, primarily regarding turbine-engine-powered airplanes and helicopters. Subjects include aircraft, engines, maintenance, operations, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security, and training.

Walter Bius and his Prairie Flower company allegedly operated an illegal charter service using deceptive aircraft leasing practices

DOT Files Civil Action against Illegal Charter Operation

Robert Sancetta

Most pilots can continue flying even with a cancer diagnosis

AINsight: Cancer and Flying, Part 1

Curt Epstein

Program is lauded for social media use and cohesive messaging

Climbing Fast Campaign Climbs to the Top

Uncertainty is keeping potential buyers and investors on the sidelines

Daher Aircraft Navigates Trump’s Tariffs

Charles Alcock

News about environmental issues relating to aircraft operations, including noise issues, emissisions, and regulations. See Fuel for biofuel.

News and developments about aviation fuel, including jet fuel, aviation gasoline, and biofuel.

UK manufacturer has purchased battery chargers from electric aircraft developer Beta Technologies

Vertical Adopts Standardized Chargers for eVTOL Aircraft Batteries

Sarah Rose

News and issues concerning general aviation, specifically airplanes and helicopters powered by piston and alternative engines (i.e., non-turbine powered aircraft). Subjects include aircraft, engines, personnel, acquisitions, accidents, safety, security and training.

Association argues move will drive talent from Canada

CBAA Slams Proposed Business Jet Tax Changes

Amy Wilder

News and information about crew, passenger, aircraft and airport security issues.

More In Regulations and Government

DOT Files Civil Action against Illegal Charter Operation

Walter Bius and his Prairie Flower company allegedly operated an illegal charter service using deceptive aircraft leasing practices

AINsight: Cancer and Flying, Part 1

Most pilots can continue flying even with a cancer diagnosis

Climbing Fast Campaign Climbs to the Top

Program is lauded for social media use and cohesive messaging

Daher Aircraft Navigates Trump’s Tariffs

Uncertainty is keeping potential buyers and investors on the sidelines

Vertical Adopts Standardized Chargers for eVTOL Aircraft Batteries

UK manufacturer has purchased battery chargers from electric aircraft developer Beta Technologies

CBAA Slams Proposed Business Jet Tax Changes

Association argues move will drive talent from Canada

FAA Allows Aircraft Owners To Shield Registration Details

NBAA praises rule as critical for business aviation security

FAA Allows Owners To Shield Registration Details

NBAA praises rule as critical for business aviation security

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