Flight Simulator Finance
Finance for flight simulators and synthetic training devices - FNPT II, FTD Level 5/6, and Level D full flight simulators. Finance for approved training organisations, airlines, and corporate flight departments building in-house simulator capability.
The right structure for your aviation requirements
FNPT II Finance
Flight and Navigation Procedures Trainer II - the most common CAA-qualified synthetic training device in UK flying schools. Finance for FNPT II devices used for IR, CPL, and ATPL training.
FTD Level 5 & 6 Finance
Flight Training Device Level 5 and 6 - the step up from FNPT II in simulator fidelity. Finance for training organisations providing higher-fidelity procedural training.
Full Flight Simulator Finance
Level D Full Flight Simulators - the highest qualification, used for type rating training. Finance for airline training centres and ATOs providing type rating courses.
UPRT Device Finance
Finance for Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) devices. CAA-mandated for ATPL training - finance for ATOs investing in UPRT qualification.
Hire Purchase
Own the simulator at end of term. Fixed monthly payments over 5-10 years. Capital allowances on qualifying training equipment for business use.
Finance Lease
Lower monthly payments. Suited to training organisations that want to upgrade their simulator as new aircraft types enter the market.
How it works
Simulator details
Type (FNPT II, FTD, FFS), manufacturer (CAE, L3Harris, Indra, Alsim), aircraft type replicated, CAA qualification status, and ATO that will use the device.
Specialist lenders
Flight simulator finance is specialist equipment finance with aviation characteristics. We access lenders who understand CAA-qualified training devices.
ATO documentation
Current CAA ATO approval number, training programme documentation, and simulator qualification certificate or application in progress.
Settlement
We settle with the simulator manufacturer or seller. Installation and qualification costs can be included in some facilities.
Ready to discuss Flight Simulator Finance?
Call 0204 6211776 or complete our enquiry form. Indicative terms typically within hours.
Frequently asked questions
Can a flight simulator be financed before it has CAA qualification?
In some cases - if the ATO has applied for qualification and the simulator is from an established manufacturer with a track record of CAA approval, some lenders will advance against the order. Full drawdown is typically conditional on qualification being granted.
Can installation costs be included in the simulator finance?
In many cases yes - the simulation hardware and software, installation, site preparation, and CAA qualification costs can be included in a combined facility from specialist lenders.
What is the typical advance on an FNPT II?
Typically 70-80% of the simulator's appraised value. CAA-qualified simulators retain value well due to the shortage of qualified devices and the ongoing demand from UK ATOs.
Can a small flying school get an FNPT II on finance?
Yes - even small CAA-approved ATOs can access FNPT II finance. The school's ATO approval, current student numbers, and the simulator's revenue potential (from IR training) all support the application.
Is simulator finance treated as aircraft finance or equipment finance?
Specialist simulators are treated as aviation equipment rather than aircraft - they are not registered on the CAA G-register. Finance is structured as asset finance with aviation characteristics, typically with specialist aviation equipment lenders rather than the same panel as manned aircraft.
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