Helicopter Import Finance UK

Yes, though there are important practical considerations. Some UK lenders are willing to finance the purchase of an N-registered helicopter during the conversion process, while others will only lend once the aircraft is on the UK G-register. We work with lenders in both camps - those comfortable financing the import period and those who require G-registration before drawdown - and can match you with the right approach for your timeline.

The cost of converting a US N-registered helicopter to the UK G-register varies significantly depending on the aircraft type, its age, the completeness of its documentation and any modifications required to meet UK CAA standards. As a rough guide, budget for £10,000–£40,000 in conversion and survey costs for a piston helicopter, rising to £30,000–£100,000+ for a turbine type requiring significant paperwork, maintenance actions or equipment changes. Your UK CAMO or maintenance organisation should provide a detailed conversion estimate before purchase.

Some specialist lenders will finance an N-registered helicopter during the CAA conversion period, accepting N-registration as security in the short term. These lenders will typically require an agreed conversion timeline and may set a longstop date by which G-registration must be completed. Others prefer to wait until the aircraft is on the UK register. As a broker, we know which lenders take which approach and can manage the drawdown to fit your conversion schedule.

Yes. Import VAT at 20% is payable on the value of a helicopter imported into the UK from outside the UK. If you are VAT-registered and the helicopter will be used for a VAT-able business purpose, you can reclaim the import VAT. If you are purchasing for private use, the VAT represents a real cost. Customs duty may also apply depending on the country of origin and the applicable commodity code. Specialist customs brokers can advise on the precise VAT and duty position for your import.

Investec, Close Brothers and a small number of specialist aviation lenders have experience with imported helicopter finance, including N-reg to G-reg conversion scenarios. These lenders understand the documentation trail required for converted aircraft and the importance of a clean CAA conversion record. The mainstream high street banks are generally more cautious about N-reg or recently converted aircraft and may require the aircraft to be fully registered in the UK before considering a finance application.