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  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Sky Allies Capital Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more
     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. – Nov. 13, 2019 – National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Sky Allies Capital has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. 

    “NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world. We’re excited to welcome Sky Allies to our growing organization as we head to our 50th anniversary,” said Jim Blessing, president of NAFA.

    Sky Allies is a group of finance and aviation industry professionals – financing and leasing airplanes, helicopters, flight simulators and other aviation or industrial and technological equipment. The company specializes in credit challenged borrowers and other abnormal deal opportunities. They also offer special hourly simulator leasing programs for flight schools.

    The company is privately held and based in Las Vegas, NV. Sky Allies is a member of the American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers and thereby adhere to a Code of Ethics Program as voted on by their broker members. Their principal has 26 years experience in the aviation industry, is a Citation 525 rated pilot, ATP and an airplane owner.

    Much like NAFA, Sky Allies Capital is focused on the financing of aircraft – putting business plans in the air. Sky Allies and NAFA are committed to the highest level of customer service, fostering long lasting business relationships throughout the aviation industry.

    For more information about Sky Allies Capital, visit nafa.aero/companies/sky-allies-capital.

    About NAFA:  

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit NAFA.aero.

     

     November 13, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Wings Insurance Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. – Nov. 11, 2019 – National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Wings Insurance has recently joined its professional network of aviation service providers. 

    “NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world. We’re excited to welcome Wings to our growing organization as we head to our 50th anniversary,” said Jim Blessing, president of NAFA.

    Wings Insurance is one of the largest aviation risks-only insurance brokers in the country, maintaining five office locations in the USA (Daytona Beach, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Chicago and Denver) and a customer base of over 2500 clients. The company’s aviation insurance reach encompasses every state in the USA along with global insurance placements in most EU, Middle East and Asian locales.

    Wings Insurance began in 1984, specializing in aviation insurance on a regional level. Since inception, the business has experienced a steady rate of growth, and almost 35 years later they offer global insurance solutions through a world-wide network of solution providers with over 100 years of combined aviation insurance experience.

    With their hands-on background in both the aviation and insurance industries, Wings has the resources to help their clients make informed decisions, whether it involves purchasing, financing, tax, legal, transitions or recurrent training. The company aims to provide the best coverages at the lowest price point available and solidify long-term partnerships through responsive customer service, creativity, and integrity. Wings is also one of only three International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) endorsed insurance brokerage firms. 

    Much like NAFA, Wings Insurance is dedicated to the highest quality of service to their clients and business associates – delivered with a sense of friendliness and individual pride. Wings and NAFA are committed to fostering industry knowledge and leading-edge technology throughout the aviation industry.

    For more information about Wings Insurance, visit nafa.aero/companies/wings-insurance.

    About NAFA:  

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit NAFA.aero.

     November 11, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    NAFA Announces Dawn Hudson as Keynote Speaker for 49th Annual Conference see more

    NAFA Announces Dawn Hudson as Keynote Speaker for 49th Annual Conference

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. – November 11, 2019 – The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Dawn Hudson will be the keynote speaker at their upcoming 49th Annual Conference, to be held April 28th through May 1st, 2020, at The Meritage Resort in Napa Valley, California. Hudson will be presenting to an audience of aviation industry and finance experts with a global reach – supporting or enabling the financing of general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world. 

    Widely recognized as one of the most important female business executives of the past decade, Dawn Hudson is the former Chief Marketing Officer at the National Football League and the former President and CEO of Pepsi Cola North America. She has led an impressive career spanning high-level posts in media, retail, consumer goods, consulting, and healthcare at some of the biggest corporations in the world. 

    Hudson’s work has been focused on revolutionizing and strengthening brands’ positioning and marketing, tapping into culture change as fuel for innovative business strategies, and championing inclusive leadership and diversity. She has been recognized as the “Most Vital Leader in Tech, Media, and Marketing” by AdWeek – topping a list of 50 industry titans – and twice as one of Fortune magazine’s “50 Most Powerful Women in Business.” 

    Dawn Hudson is an electric speaker – as an advocate of smart reinvention and growth, she shares insights on turning adversity into an advantage, building a global presence, and why in today’s business climate innovation must be central to everything from distribution to selling stories to human capital management. Hudson speaks about the power of brand, how to embrace change and drive innovation, and the importance of strong and inclusive leadership.

    The 49th Annual Meeting of the National Aircraft Finance Association will bring together the most active aircraft lenders in North America and worldwide to network and discuss issues topical to the industry, including: aviation regulatory changes, banking system regulatory changes, updates on new aircraft entering the marketplace, and other issues pertinent to aircraft buyers and their support systems. 

    “Dawn Hudson is an amazing mind with sharp insights into driving innovation, leadership and inclusion for successful business practices, and we are thrilled to have her speaking to our members and other attendees at the upcoming conference,” said Jim Blessing, President of NAFA. Hudson will present on “Inclusive Leadership” for the approximately 250 attendees on Thursday, April 30th, 2020. Additional details and time will be determined at a later date – visit NAFA.aero/events for information.

    For more information about Dawn Hudson, visit leadingauthorities.com/speakers/dawn-hudson.

    About NAFA: 

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit NAFA.aero.

     November 11, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    NBT Bank Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     

    FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – November 4, 2019 – National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that NBT Bank recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. 

    “NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world. We’re excited to welcome NBT Bank to our growing organization as we head to our 50th anniversary,” said Jim Blessing, President of NAFA.

    NBT Bank offers personal and business banking, commercial banking and wealth management services from locations in seven states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Connecticut and through its online and mobile channels. The bank added small aircraft financing to its array of lending options in 2019 and hired Douglas N. Place, Jr. as vice president of Aircraft Financing to lead their efforts. Place has nearly 15 years of experience in the financial services industry, including 10 years in aviation financing. He is also a private pilot and a member of the Board of Directors for the Greater Lawrence, MA Airport Authority.

    “NBT Bank is dedicated to building strong relationships and delivering high-quality service to our customers,” said Place. “I am proud to be a part of the NBT team and to deliver small aircraft financing as an enhancement to the bank’s business options. We’re very excited to join NAFA and foster long-term, mutually-beneficial relationships throughout the aviation finance community.”

    Established in 1856, NBT Bank is headquartered in Norwich, NY with its parent company, NBT Bancorp Inc. NBT Bancorp Inc. had assets of $9.7 billion as of September 30, 2019 and is traded on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol NBTB.

    NBT Bank appeared on the Forbes 2019 World’s Best Banks list as the top-ranked bank in Maine,  New Hampshire, New York and Vermont. Of the 60 U.S. banks on the list, NBT Bank was ranked #14. Forbes surveyed more than 40,000 customers around the globe and rated banks on overall recommendation and satisfaction as well as five subdimensions (trust, terms and conditions, customer services, digital services and financial advice).

    For more information about NBT Bank, visit nafa.aero/companies/nbt-bank.

    About NAFA:  

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit NAFA.aero.

     November 04, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    NAFA is pleased to announce the recent expansion of their Board of Directors. see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. - Oct. 2, 2019 – The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce the recent expansion of their Board of Directors. NAFA’s Board now includes six new seats in order to better represent and serve the organization’s growing membership. Several of the new seats have been filled by manufacturers’ financial representatives, increasing NAFA’s connection and influence in the aviation finance industry, and directly benefitting members.

    Jim Blessing, Vice President of AirFleet Capital, Inc. and President of NAFA, made the announcement and stated, “As NAFA continues to grow as an important partner to the global aviation industry, we must also continue to further our members’ interests and our organization’s initiatives – this expansion comes at a key point in doing exactly that. We’re excited to bring more diversity to our Board.”

    Existing Officers & NAFA Board Members:

    • Jim Blessing, AirFleet Capital, Director and President of NAFA
    • Jim Simpson, First Republic Bank, Director and Vice-President of NAFA
    • Richard Barrett, Huntington Bank, NAFA Director
    • Jason Caterino, SalemFive Bank, NAFA Director
    • Tracey Cheek, TLC Marketing, NAFA Marketing Director and Marketing Committee Chair
    • J.C. Ferrer, Holland & Knight, NAFA Director
    • Stephen Friedrich, Embraer Executive Jets, NAFA Director
    • Karen Griggs, Executive Director, NAFA
    • Brad Harris, Dallas Jet International, NAFA Director and NAFA 2020 Conference Chair
    • Tony Kioussis, Asset Insight, Secretary of NAFA and Scholarships & Awards Committee Chair
    • Tobias Kleitman, TVPX Trust Services, Treasurer of NAFA
    • Dave Labrozzi, Global Jet Capital, NAFA Director
    • Ed Medici, Bank of America Leasing, NAFA Director
    • Debbie Mercer-Erwin, Wright Brothers Title, NAFA Director and Regulatory Committee Chair
    • Adam Meredith, AOPA Finance, NAFA Director and Light Aircraft Roundtable Chair
    • Lee Rohde, Essex Aviation, NAFA Director and Membership Committee Chair
    • Ford von Weise, Citi Private Bank, NAFA President Emeritus
    • David Warner, Lane Powell, General Counsel of NAFA

    New Board Members:

    • Keith Hayes, PNC Aviation Finance
    • Scott Nelson, Gulfstream Aerospace
    • Cathy Nyen, Cirrus Aircraft
    • Donald Pointer, Dassault Falcon Jet
    • Anthony Schieber, Textron Financial
    • David Vandenberg, Bombardier Business Aircraft

    The six new Board members provide a significant addition to the existing Board membership, rounding out representation in the light aircraft through large cabin equipment classes of aircraft.

    For a full list and more information about NAFA’s Board Members, visit NAFA.aero/team.

    About NAFA:  

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit www.NAFA.aero.

     October 02, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Jet Edge Partners Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

     

    EDGEWATER, Md.– September 16, 2019 – National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Jet Edge Partners has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. 

    “NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world. We’re excited to welcome Jet Edge to our growing organization as we head to our 50th anniversary,” said Jim Blessing, President of NAFA.

    Jet Edge Partners is a full-service aircraft broker and dealer formed as a division of Jet Edge International. The aircraft sales experts at Jet Edge work to understand the mission profiles, goals, and operational budget of their clientele to ensure they are connected with the best possible aircraft to meet their individual needs. 

    The company’s team is connected in real time to the movements in the markets and are skilled in projecting future trends in the aviation industry. Throughout their careers, the sales team at Jet Edge Partners have successfully completed aircraft transactions totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. 

    With offices and sales professionals located throughout the United States, the company provides clients with the knowledge and understanding of the market needed in order to purchase or sell an aircraft with confidence and unmatched customer service. 

    Jet Edge Partners not only transacts aircraft, but alongside Jet Edge International, it operates, owns, and manages one of the largest fleets in the world, providing clients with operational knowledge and resources unmatched in the industry. 

    Much like NAFA, Jet Edge Partners promotes knowledge and understanding of the market for confident and timely transactions. Jet Edge and NAFA are committed to the aviation industry and the highest standards of customer service. 

    For more information about Jet Edge Partners, visit nafa.aero/companies/jet-edge-partners.

    About NAFA:  

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit NAFA.aero.

     September 16, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Aero Asset Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


    EDGEWATER, Md. - July 29, 2019 - National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Aero Asset has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. “NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world. We’re excited to welcome Aero Asset to our growing organization as we head to our 50th anniversary,” said Jim Blessing, President of NAFA.

    Aero Asset is a groundbreaking international helicopter sales brokerage with decades of aircraft trading expertise. The company was founded by three well-established aircraft sales professionals: Emmanuel Dupuy, William Sturm and Valerie Pereira. Combining 70-plus years of experience, Aero Asset is a world class broker and dealer of preowned helicopters across configurations and weight class.

    Valerie Pereira pilots market research. The growing sales team is lead by Emmanuel Dupuy, William Sturm & Francisco Camoes.  

    Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, the company promotes its knowledge of helicopter markets by releasing the Preowned Helicopter Market Trendsevery quarter. This in-depth market report ranks preowned twin-engine markets by liquidity, tracks trading values and breaks down sales & supply over the quarter and year on year. 

    Aero Asset’s Preowned Helicopter Market Trends Q2 report is out now and can be downloaded here: 

    https://aeroasset.com/pre-owned-market-trends-2019-q2.html

    Aero Asset applies big brokerage business practices with a customer-first approach to helicopter sales. Much like NAFA, Aero Asset is passionate about aviation and promoting accurate information for fair and safe transactions. Aero Asset and NAFA are dedicated to the aviation industry and its evolution – setting the highest standards for service and expertise throughout.  

    For more information about Aero Asset, visit nafa.aero/companies/aero-asset.

    About NAFA:  

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit NAFA.aero.

  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Equity Bank Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. – May 28, 2019 – National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Equity Bank has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. “NAFA members form a network of aviation finance services who diligently and competently operate with integrity and objectivity throughout the world. We’re excited to welcome Equity to our growing organization as we head to our 50th anniversary,” said Jim Blessing, President of NAFA.

    Founded in November 2002 in Andover, Kansas by current Chairman and CEO Brad Elliott, Equity Bank has grown through a combination of organic growth and acquisitions, and now has $4.1 billion in assets. Equity Bank strives to provide an enhanced banking experience for customers with sophisticated banking products and services tailored to meet their needs, while delivering the high-quality, relationship-based customer service of a community bank. Parent company Equity Bancshares, Inc. trades on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol EQBK.

    Equity Bank has now launched a business aviation division, headed by Morgan Littell, industry veteran and former NAFA member through UMB Bank. The division will focus on providing tailored financial solutions for business aircraft acquisitions. 

    “We’re proud to provide financing solutions that are tailored to the needs of our customers, including our dedication to the aviation needs of our clients,” said Craig Anderson, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Equity Bank. “We’re pleased to have a professional leader like Morgan join our team, and she will be an asset to our customers.”

    Much like NAFA, Equity Bank is focused on community and growth in financial services, and that now extends to the business aviation industry. Equity and NAFA foster an environment in which passionate, knowledgeable and committed professionals can lend their expertise and high standards of service to the financial community.

    For more information about Equity Bank, visit equitybank.com.

    About NAFA:  

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit NAFA.aero.

  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    NAFA Announces New Officers and Board Members at its 46th Annual Meeting see more

    Dear Fellow NAFA Members,

    At the close of the 48th Annual NAFA Conference it became my distinct honor to take the helm of such a distinguished organization as we head toward our 50th anniversary.

    The 2019 Conference was an excellent event in many respects, with presentations from industry experts, aircraft manufacturers, our keynote and economist, and lively discussions on the issues that are most topical to the NAFA membership. We are especially appreciative of our conference sponsors who have given NAFA the ability to invest in increasing the quality and content of the event year over year. Your feedback from the event is critical in our development of future years’ Conference programs. Please take the time to complete the post-conference survey if you have not already done so via the link: https://www.getfeedback.com/r/cuVU44p8.

    At the Annual Meeting NAFA announced a new Code of Ethics for our membership, and the final version is attached here. We would welcome you to review and comment on the document by April 30th, as our intent is to implement this soon thereafter.

    Organizationally, NAFA welcomes the addition of Ed Medici to the Board of Directors. Ed is a 20+ year veteran of the aviation industry and serves as the Managing Director at Banc of America. In addition, Jim Simpson, Senior Managing Director with First Republic Bank joins the NAFA Executive team as NAFA’s new Vice President. We are also thankful for the renewed support of our officers; Karen Griggs - Executive Director, Tobias Kleitman - Treasurer, Tony Kioussis - Secretary, and David Warner, NAFA’s General Counsel.

    We received excellent feedback during the Conference on what you want to see from your NAFA membership. With this in mind, we have a lot to accomplish, and we are looking for active participants for our Committees. Please consider participating in one of the below committees:

    • -  Website Development

    • -  Annual Conference Planning

    • -  Other Networking Event Planning

    • -  Membership Committee

    • -  Regulatory & Advocacy

    • -  Marketing Committee

    • -  Strategic Planning

    • -  Sponsorships & Fundraising

    If you have an interest in joining one of the above initiatives, please feel free to reach out to Karen Griggs or I (karengriggs@nafa.aero).

    In moving our focus forward, we ended our event in Fort Lauderdale with an announcement as to next year’s conference dates and locations. NAFA’s 2020 conference will be hosted by the Meritage Resort in Napa Valley, California and is scheduled for April 28-May 1.  We hope you will make plans to join us!

    Sincerely,

    Jim Blessing

    President, National Aircraft Finance Association 

    jblessing@airfleetcapital.com

    480.634.8129 direct

    703.608.9360 cell

     April 02, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    NAFA's 48th Annual Conference a Great Success! see more

    Ft. Lauderdale, FL., March 3-6, 2019 – #NAFA48 - The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) held its 48thAnnual Conference March 3-6, 2019.  With 108 companies in attendance, and over 200 attendees, the conference was a great success. The conference was held at the Marriott Harbor Beach in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.  The four-day event included a 1-day NAFA Aircraft Education Program, Annual Business Meeting and a wide array of aviation and finance-specific Sessions.

    NAFA announced new officers for the next year, with Jim Blessing assuming the role as president, succeeding Ford Von Weise. Additionally, Jim Simpson will become vice president.  NAFA also welcomed industry veteran Ed Medici to the Board of Directors.

    “The 48thAnnual Conference reflects a continued commitment by NAFA to raise the bar, with economic and business thought leaders, aviation industry experts, and seasoned veterans in the finance community,” said Jim Blessing president of NAFA.  “Engaging discussions about the future of the aviation industry, workforce shortages, the approaching ADS-B deadline, and new aircraft entering the marketplace highlighted the event.”

    Keynote speaker this year was Geoff Colvin, Acclaimed Author & Senior Editor, Fortune Magazine. He spoke about Leading Ahead of What’s Next – The New Rules of Business.  

    Economic Analyst, Dr. LaVaughn M. Henry, spoke to the audience about The Status & Outlook of the  U.S. Economy & Monetary Policy.Dr. Henry is a policy analyst for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and Former Vice President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.

    Conference participants also included Mark Baker, President of the Aircraft Owners’ & Pilots’ Association, Steve Brown, COO of the National Business Aviation Association, Gary Dempsey, President of the National Air Transport Association, and representatives from a wide variety of aircraft manufacturing and aviation service organizations.

    NAFA would like to thank the conference sponsors:  

    -       Platinum Sponsor– Embraer – host of the Welcome Reception along with an Open House and Static Display a their Fort Lauderdale facility. 

    -       Gold Sponsors– AIC Title Service, Aircraft Bluebook, AOPA Finance, Global Jet Capital, Insured Aircraft Title Service, JSSI Advisory Services, Rolls Royce and Wright Brothers Aircraft Title. 

    -       Silver Sponsors– Aero-Space Reports, Aircraft Guaranty-Corp, AirFleet Capital, Aviation Management Systems, Essex Aviation, LL Johns Aviation Insurance, Salem Five, Scope Aircraft Finance, and V-Ref Aircraft Value Reference. 

    -       Bronze Sponsors– Aviation Legal Group, Asset Insight, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch and Stevens Aerospace and Defense Systems.

    NAFA’s 49thAnnual Conference is to be held in Napa Valley, California April 28 through May 1, 2020.

    About NAFA:

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry’s service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit the website at www.NAFA.aero

     

     March 26, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    LBC Capital Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. - March 1st, 2019 - National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that LBC Capital, Inc., a subsidiary of Laurentian Bank of Canada, has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. "NAFA members proudly finance - support or enable the financing of - general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world, and we're happy to add LBC Capital to our association," said Ford von Weise, President of NAFA.

    LBC Capital's Aviation Finance team aims to facilitate business productivity by providing capital for the acquisition, sale and refinancing of corporate aircrafts including turbojets, turboprops and helicopters. The group serves corporations, high net worth individuals and aircraft operators within the general aviation market across Canada and the United States. They partner with manufacturers, brokers, aircraft owners, and various industry players by providing creative financing solutions.

    "LBC Capital is delighted to join NAFA as we expand our aviation financing offering not only to Canadian business aircraft and helicopter buyers but now also to the US market," said Eric Provost, President of LBC Capital.

    Much like NAFA, LBC Capital fosters a network of highly talented and dedicated professionals in the finance and aviation industries. LBC Capital and NAFA are committted to providing the highest level of service through their many partnerships, promotion of education and support of local communities.

    About Laurentian Bank Financial Group

    Founded in 1846, Laurentian Bank Financial Group is a diversified financial services provider whose mission is to help its customers improve their financial health. The Laurentian Bank of Canada and its entities are collectively referred to as Laurentian Bank Financial Group (the "Group" or the "Bank"). With more than 3500 employees guided by the values of proximity, simplicity and honesty, the Group provides a broad range of advice-based solutions and services to its retail, business and institutional customers. With pan-Canadian activities and a presence in the U.S., the Group is an important player in numerous market segments.

    The Group has $CAD 45 billion in balance sheet assets and $CAD 29 billion in assets under administration.

    About NAFA:

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowldge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit www.NAFA.aero.

     March 04, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Arc & Co. Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. – Feb. 18, 2019 - National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Arc & Co. has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. “NAFA members proudly finance - support or enable the financing of - general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world, and we’re happy to add Arc & Co. to our association,” said Ford von Weise, President of NAFA.

    Arc & Co. is a specialist debt advisory providing advice on real estate, marine and aviation assets, with offices in Mayfair, London and Oxfordshire. Arc & Co. Structured Finance advises on senior debt and equity packages on all sizes of residential development, commercial development and long-term income producing assets. Arc & Co. Private Finance has an unrivaled record advising on mortgages for residential and investment purposes and finance for superyachts and business aircrafts for both UK and international clients. 

    The company’s added value is their breadth of experience and knowledge of the marketplace. Their keen understanding of lenders' expectations allows them to advise and structure debt based on criteria such as registry, operator, type of aircraft and UBO jurisdiction.TheArc & Co. team addresses the needs of individuals, corporations and government entities, enabling them to achieve a greater return on equity for their investment strategies.  

    Since 2008, Arc & Co. has strived to offer the best possible service to clients, developing a reputation for finding solutions even in the most challenging of circumstances.Withover 75% of their business each year coming from repeat clients, the company prides itself on understanding each client’s long-term business plan and structuring a financing package that is relevant to their current and future needs. They have helped clients secure in excess of £2 billion of finance in the last 5 years, and restructure £450m of debt in the last year.

    Much like NAFA, Arc & Co. has built a team that is knowledgeable and passionate about finance and deeply committed to getting clients the right result. Arc & Co. and NAFA develop strong business relationships worldwide,promoting the highest standards of excellence throughout the finance and aviation industries.

    For more information about Arc & Co., visit arcandco.com/.  

    About NAFA: 

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit www.NAFA.aero.

     February 26, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Vinci Aeronautica Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md.Feb. 13, 2018 - National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Vinci Aeronatucia has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. “NAFA members proudly finance - support or enable the financing of - general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world, and we’re happy to add Vinci to our association,” said Ford von Weise, President of NAFA.

    Vinci Aeronautica specialists have more than 20 years of experience in the aviation industry, providing aircraft recurrent, pre-buy, redelivery and compliance inspections services for the finance and legal sectors. The company has an extensive background in maintenance management, operations, finance, regulatory compliance and sales/purchases of aircraft. The Vinci team works with the Civil Aviation Authority and several air operators to provide focused and tailored services to their valued clients. 

    With experienced inspectors, Vinci has carried out more than 2000 inspections ofa wide variety of aircraft – both fixed and rotary wings– and assisted numerous air companies – both large and small. The company has also trained and worked with many authorities worldwide, gaining significant knowledge and expertise with different compliance systems, including EASA and FAA systems.

    Vinci Aeronautica prides itself on having a global reach while providing local knowledge. Their inspectors and audit teams are fluent in English, Spanish, Portuguese and French, forming the biggest dedicated aircraft inspection company in Latin America. They are a team of highly specialized professionals with formal training on aviation rulemaking and a strong technical background. Along with the company’s proprietary asset management system, Vinci has the experience, knowledge and technology to take the utmost care of their clients’ assets.

    Much like NAFA, Vinci Aeronautica is committed to providing the highest level of service in the aviation industry. Vinci and NAFA establish strong business relationships worldwide, fostering a network of knowledgeable aviation professionals.

    For more information about Vinci Aeronautica, visit vinciaero.com.  

    About NAFA: 

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit www.NAFA.aero.

     February 18, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    JSSI Advisory Services Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md.Feb. 14, 2019 - National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that JSSI Advisory Services has joined its professional network of aviation lenders as a stand-alone member. This Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI®) company supports a global customer base with ad hoc services and is a leading provider of aircraft services to lenders, insurance companies and operators worldwide. 

    “NAFA members proudly finance, support, or enable the financing of general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world, and we’re happy to add JSSI Advisory Services to our association,” said Ford von Weise, President of NAFA.

    JSSI Advisory Services leverages 30 years of JSSI expertise and data to deliver technical advice and consulting services to clients. As an independent provider of maintenance support to virtually all makes and models of business aircraft, JSSI oversees 8,000 maintenance events per year with a global network of over 70 technical advisors. This depth and breadth of resources, along with its 2018 acquisition of Conklin & de Decker, have allowed JSSI Advisory Services to gain market share and position itself as a “one-stop shop” for aircraft owners, operators and financiers seeking guidance on often complex aviation matters. 

    “We’re proud to officially join NAFA and look forward to serving members with an unparalleled suite of services,” said Jason Schwab, President of JSSI Advisory Services and Conklin & de Decker. “We can help members in any location at every stage of the aircraft life cycle, from acquisition to operation to retirement,” Schwab added. 

    JSSI Advisory Services delivers many high-level professional services, including maintenance event management, ASA- and USPAP-certified appraisals, and on-site technical inspections of aircraft, records, and flight operations. Additional services include maintenance cost forecasting, completion inspections, fleet monitoring, delivery acceptance and ad hoc consulting engagements.

    For three decades, JSSI has been the leading independent provider of maintenance programs to the aviation industry, covering airframes, engines and APUs. JSSI provides comprehensive, flexible and affordable financial programs and tools for managing the often unpredictable costs of operating and maintaining business and commercial jets, turboprops and helicopters.  

    Much like NAFA, JSSI Advisory Services is shaped by a culture of collaboration, innovation and integrity, striving for excellence in the aviation industry. JSSI and NAFA continue to foster the highest standards in service and safety through their support of business and community. For more information about JSSI Advisory Services, visit www.jetsupport.com/advisory-services.  

    About NAFA: 

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit www.NAFA.aero.

     February 18, 2019
  • Tracey Cheek posted an article
    Antares Jet Appraisals Joins National Aircraft Finance Association see more

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    EDGEWATER, Md. – Oct. 16, 2018 - National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is pleased to announce that Antares Jet Appraisals has recently joined its professional network of aviation lenders. “NAFA members proudly finance - support or enable the financing of - general and business aviation aircraft throughout the world, and we’re happy to add Antares to our association,” said Ford von Weise, President of NAFA.

    Antares Jet Appraisals provides aircraft appraisal services for all types of aircraft, specializing in business jet and turboprop appraisals. With a team of accredited senior appraisers from the American Society of Appraisers, they comply with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), putting their more than 40 years of combined experience in the aviation industry to work for banks and financial institutions, insurance companies, and aircraft owners among others.

    ​Antares’ appraisers are certified by the American Society of Appraisers(ASA), comply with USPAP, and have access to recognized aircraft databases in the industry like Vref, Amstat, Jetnet, etc. The company performs full appraisals and inspections, desktop appraisals, future value estimations, orderly liquidation values, marketability analysis of aircraft, aircraft maintenance cost analysis, and personalized market studies.

    Much like NAFA, Antares Jet Appraisals promotes quality aircraft appraisal solutions, fostering continuity and safety throughout the aviation industry. Antares and NAFA are committed to the education necessary to maintain the highest of standards inaviation appraisals.

    For more information about Antares Jet Appraisals, visit https://www.antaresjetappraisals.com/.

    About NAFA: 

    The National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to promoting the general welfare of individuals and organizations providing aircraft financing and loans secured by aircraft; to improving the industry's service to the public; and to providing our members with a forum for education and the sharing of information and knowledge to encourage the financing, leasing and insuring of general aviation aircraft. For more information about NAFA, visit www.NAFA.aero.

     

     February 12, 2019