10/14 - You’ve Closed Escrow, Now What? Understanding Aircraft Management for New Owners
- DataBite Technologies
- Oct 14, 2025
- 2 min read
Congratulations! You have just closed escrow on your new aircraft, that one big, beautiful purchase you’ve been dreaming about. But after the keys change hands, most new owners quickly realize that aircraft ownership is about much more than the thrill of takeoff. Unless you have extensive aviation experience, you will need an aircraft management firm to manage the operations that keep your investment airworthy, efficient, and safe.
What Aircraft Management Really Means
Aircraft management covers far more than scheduling maintenance. A quality management firm handles flight scheduling, crew hiring, payroll, fuel sourcing, hangar arrangements, insurance, and compliance with FAA regulations. Many firms also offer charter management programs that allow owners to generate revenue when the aircraft is not in use.
Think of it as a partnership that protects your investment and simplifies the complexities of ownership. Whether your aircraft is a light jet or a mid-size turboprop, the right management team ensures every flight runs smoothly and safely.
“Aircraft management should be a customized approach for the clients and their aircraft needs based on their specific mission,” said Steven Sillin, CEO of Cruise Air and “Whether the client is a seasoned aircraft owner or is brand new to aviation and ownership, there should be several options and packages that fit within the parameters of the client’s needs.”
Choosing the Right Management Partner
Aircraft management services range from small boutique firms to large national operators such as Jet Linx or Clay Lacy Aviation. When evaluating providers, ask about their safety certifications, experience with your aircraft type, and how many planes they currently manage. Clarify what is included in the base management fee, how maintenance costs are handled, and who will serve as your dedicated point of contact. Like any partnership, transparency is essential.
“Managing maintenance and service events is only one component of choosing an aircraft management partner,” said Sillin. “When selecting an aircraft management company, verify that they also offer hangar and storage options, professional pilot services, and plane detailing. Also inquire how to offset the aircraft operating expenses and any leaseback options available through part 135 Charter operators or dry leasing the aircraft.”
What It Costs
Most firms charge a flat monthly management fee that covers routine administrative services, with additional costs for maintenance, insurance, or hangar storage. Pricing is often tied to the size and complexity of your aircraft, as well as its flight hours and charter usage.
The Bottom Line
Selecting the right management firm is one of the most important decisions you will make as an aircraft owner. A strong partnership built on trust, safety, and communication gives you the freedom to focus on what matters most: enjoying the journey while professionals oversee the rest.
“In aviation management, transparency defines trust,” a spokesperson from Rivet Aviation said. “Every owner deserves honest guidance, open communication, and integrity at the heart of every decision”
Sources:
Aircraft Maintenance: Using Aircraft Management Companies: What are the Pros & Cons? | AvBuyer
Management Partner: Aircraft Management | Private Jet Management | Jet Linx
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