Helicopter Loans For Good & Bad Credit

How does helicopter financing work?

Helicopter financing works similarly to other types of vehicle or equipment loans. You borrow a set amount from a lender to purchase a new or used helicopter, then repay the loan in fixed monthly installments over a predetermined term.

There are typically two main types of financing to consider:

• Secured aircraft loans – These loans are backed by the helicopter itself as collateral. If you default, the lender can repossess the aircraft. These usually come with lower interest rates and longer repayment periods.
• Unsecured personal loans – These don’t require collateral and can be used for a wide range of expenses, including helicopter purchases. They’re a good option for borrowers with strong credit who want faster approval or don’t want to tie the loan directly to the aircraft.

Some lenders may also offer lease options or balloon payment structures, where you make lower payments during the repayment period and pay a lump sum at the end.

Can I get a helicopter loan with bad credit?

Yes, it is possible to finance a helicopter with bad credit, though your options may be more limited. Traditional lenders often require strong credit due to the high loan amounts and risks involved in aviation financing. However, some lenders cater to a broader range of credit profiles—including borrowers with fair or poor credit—especially if you’re able to provide a large down payment or use a co-signer.

If you’re applying with less-than-perfect credit, consider these tips to improve your chances:

• Apply with a co-signer who has good credit
• Offer a higher down payment to reduce lender risk
• Compare multiple offers to find flexible offers
• Focus on lenders who evaluate factors beyond credit score, such as income, experience, or business use

Keep in mind that interest rates may be higher, but successfully repaying a helicopter loan could help rebuild your credit over time.

What credit score do you need for a helicopter loan?

Most lenders on the Acorn Finance platform have a credit score cutoff of 600 or above. However, credit score requirements can vary widely based on the lender, loan amount, and whether the aircraft is new or used.

Here’s a general breakdown of FICO® scores:

• Exceptional: 800–850
• Very Good: 740–799
• Good: 670–739
• Fair: 580–669
• Poor: 300–579

Offers are more likely to be returned for borrowers with fair or better credit. Beyond your credit score, lenders will also look at your debt-to-income ratio, employment history, and financial reserves, especially for large loan amounts. 

What are typical helicopter loan rates?
Helicopter loan interest rates can vary significantly based on factors like your credit score, down payment, repayment period, and the lender you choose.

In general, loans secured by the helicopter itself may offer more competitive rates compared to unsecured personal loans, which carry more risk for lenders. Rates may also be higher for older or heavily-used aircraft, or if your credit profile falls below the “good” range.

If you're using a personal loan to finance your helicopter, keep in mind that these loans typically come with slightly higher rates than traditional aircraft loans—since they aren't backed by collateral.

The best way to find a loan that fits your budget is to compare offers from multiple lenders. With Acorn Finance, you can check pre-qualified offers from top lenders without impacting your credit score—helping you explore your options with confidence.

How much can I finance with a helicopter loan?
The amount you can finance depends on several factors, including your credit profile, the lender’s criteria, and the type of helicopter you're purchasing. Personal loans may offer funding up to $100,000, while secured aircraft loans can support much larger amounts.

Several factors can influence how much you’re approved to borrow:

• Your credit score and overall financial profile
• The appraised value and condition of the helicopter
• Down payment amount (secured loans)
• Whether the aircraft is new or used (secured loans)
• Intended use—personal versus commercial (secured loans)

If you're using a personal loan, your financing may be capped, but it can still be a smart way to cover part of the purchase or fully fund a smaller or older aircraft. For larger purchases, a secured loan may offer the flexibility and higher borrowing limits needed to complete the transaction.

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