At the 2025 AEROSA Expo, World Airnews had the opportunity to sit down with Thomas Jardine, Portfolio Manager at Aircraft Finance Corporation (AFC). With over two decades of experience supporting business aviation in South Africa and beyond, AFC offers a unique blend of aircraft financing, leasing, avionics upgrades, and drone financing. Jardine shared insights into the company’s niche market, current challenges facing aviation finance, and the exciting prospects on the horizon.
Introducing AFC: More Than Just Finance
Thomas explains, “We’ve been operational for about 20 years, originally founded by Ryan Forrester. AFC provides niche financing solutions covering both fixed-wing and rotor-wing aircraft. Our services include traditional finance and leasing agreements, which we deliver through our sister company, ALS.”
Beyond financing, AFC’s group structure includes subsidiaries like AMCA, specialising in avionics upgrades, and Next Aviation based at Wonderboom Airport. “This gives us a broad, practical understanding of both market needs and client expectations,” Jardine adds.
Turbulence and Tailwinds in the Market
When asked about the current state of the market amidst global uncertainty, Jardine acknowledges the challenges. “Global conflict and instability have complicated imports and exports, particularly for larger aircraft. Closer to home, the proposed 12-year engine overhaul regulation has caused concern among owners who often don’t reach the required flight hours before the calendar limit, creating anxiety.”
Despite this, Jardine notes a resilient market. “At Nampo and AEROSA, interest remains high, especially in the agricultural sector. While some segments have slowed as buyers await legal outcomes, overall growth remains strong entering the latter half of 2025.”
On the Cutting Edge: UAVs and eVTOL Finance
AFC is actively engaged in the drone financing sector. Jardine says, “We finance commercial drones, including high-value models like the T40 and T50, mainly in agriculture. However, legislation is still catching up. Licensing is a major factor since insurers require a valid Remote Pilot Licence (RPL). We work closely with distributors linked to accredited training schools to support clients through the licensing process.”
Drones have become essential tools for crop spraying and terrain mapping, complementing rather than replacing traditional aircraft like Air Tractors.
On Compliance and Responsible Operations
Addressing environmental safety in drone operations, Jardine states, “Our focus is always on the asset and operator qualifications. If the pilot is licensed and the drone insured, we can assess the risk and fund accordingly. We expect regulatory frameworks to tighten over time, particularly around chemical handling, but most of our agricultural clients are aware of best practices and act responsibly.”
Financing with Flexibility: Ownership, Leasing, and Shared Models
Jardine highlights an increase in shared ownership models. “Joint ventures and syndicates are growing, particularly for higher-value aircraft such as King Airs and 1900s. We often fund one partner’s portion while the other pays their share directly. Clear agreements and responsibilities are key.”
AFC also offers financing for overhauls and avionics upgrades — areas often overlooked by traditional banks. “For legacy aircraft needing modern Garmin glass cockpit upgrades, we structure funding based on the equity in the existing asset.”
Heritage Aircraft and the 12-Year Rule
Preserving aviation heritage is important to AFC. Jardine remarks, “Historic aircraft like Tiger Moths still belong in our skies. If owners need financing for overhauls or retrofits, we assess the full picture — equity, condition, operator history, and flight intentions. With strong fundamentals, we provide support.”
Their partner AMCA recently earned a Garmin Platinum Award for top sales across Europe and Africa, reinforcing their technical capability in upgrades.
Expanding Horizons: Entering African Markets
Jardine observes rapid development in other African markets. “Many countries are leapfrogging legacy processes and adopting advanced technologies quickly. We’re expanding into these markets, where demand for aviation finance and openness to innovative ownership and drone models often exceed that of South Africa.”
Advice for New Entrants
For newcomers to aviation ownership, Jardine offers clear guidance: “Education is crucial. We spend time with young entrepreneurs and first-time buyers to help them understand what they’re buying, its origins, and ongoing requirements. We assist with due diligence, affordability assessments, and lifecycle considerations. We welcome informal discussions — it’s important people feel supported even before they’re ready to buy.”
In Closing: Supporting Passion and Practicality
Reflecting on AFC’s two decades of service, Jardine says, “We’ve grown by being hands-on, personal, and industry-informed. Whether financing an aircraft, leasing, upgrading avionics, or entering the drone space, we’re here to help. If you have the passion and drive for aviation, we’ll find a way to support you.”
Visit: www.airfincorp.co.za for more information.
