Financing your pilot training should be straightforward, especially when preparing for a professional aviation career. Summit Flight Academy partners with Stratus Financial — an aviation-focused lender designed by pilots, for pilots — to offer students reliable financing for full career-track programs and individual ratings. This guide breaks down eligibility requirements, documents you’ll need, how the application works, common questions and what to expect.
You can also learn about all financing options available for Summit students on our Financing Resources page.
1. What Is Stratus Financial?
Stratus Financial was founded by FAA Certificated Flight and Ground Instructors who understand the realities of aviation training firsthand. Stratus specializes in supporting professional flight training programs and offers financing for:
- Full career-track programs
- Packages that may include supplies and checkride fees
Stratus aims to provide greater support and financial solutions for students committed to pursuing a career in aviation.
2. Eligibility Requirements for Summit Students
Summit students must meet the following criteria to qualify for Stratus financing:
- U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
- If not, TSA verification is required
- Enrolled in Summit’s Career Track Program
- Paystubs for the past 2 months
- Bank statements for the past 2 months
- Driver’s license
- Employer name & contact number
- 1st or 2nd class FAA medical certificate
- Co-borrower recommended
- Pilot certificate, if applicable
- Subject to credit check and underwriting
3. Required Documents for the Application
Be prepared to upload or provide:
- Two months of paystubs
- Two months of bank statements
- Driver’s license
- Employer contact information
- 1st or 2nd class medical certificate
- Pilot certificate (if applicable)
Having these ready helps prevent delays during processing.
4. Step-by-Step Stratus Application Process
Stratus outlines a clear six-step path :
1. Application
You begin the process online through Stratus by applying here.
2. Processing
Your documents and information are reviewed.
3. Underwriting
Credit evaluation and employment verification take place.
4. Approval
You receive your available options such as rates, terms, and any conditional requirements.
5. Funding
Stratus sends funds directly to Summit Flight Academy.
6. Pilot Training
Your training begins with an active student funding account.
5. How Funding Works & Handling of Unused Funds
Stratus deposits loan funds directly into your Summit training account.
Flight schools agree to return unused funds in order to minimize your debt obligation.
This prevents overborrowing and protects students from unnecessary long-term debt.
6. Common Delays and What to Expect
Common reasons for delays typically include missing documents, verification steps, or follow-up requests during underwriting.
7. Benefits Compared to Self-Financed Training
Per Stratus documentation:
- Deferred payments available during training
- Interest-only payments available while building hours to ATP minimums
- Financing can include checkride fees and required supplies
- Multiple rate and repayment structures offered after conditional approval
These options support full-time immersion in training without the pressure of large upfront expenses.
Apply Now
Ready to begin the Stratus application?
Start your financing process today:
