Stella Aviation

Aircraft Ownership

Private Aircraft Ownership - Total Support from Acquisition to Operation

Owning your own aircraft is the ultimate expression of freedom, efficiency, and control. But it demands deep expertise. We provide it all.

Should You Own an Aircraft?

Private aircraft ownership can unlock unmatched convenience, privacy, and strategic flexibility for frequent flyers – whether business leaders, family offices, or ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNWI). This page is designed to help you answer one fundamental question: Is ownership the right model for me, or would leasing, fractional, or continued charter use be more suitable? If you are already convinced that ownership is your path and want to begin the buying process, we invite you to visit our Aircraft Purchase page.

What Full Ownership Involves

Key responsibilities of aircraft owners include:

  • Acquisition or import (aircraft purchase process)
  • Aircraft registration and ownership structure
  • Maintenance planning and CAMO compliance
  • Insurance and risk management
  • Crew recruitment and training
  • Hangarage and operational logistics
  • Flight scheduling and dispatch
  • Fuel, handling, overflight permits

Each of these elements requires continuous coordination, oversight, and trusted partners. That is where we come in.

Your Aircraft, Professionally Managed by Stella Aviation

Most of our clients do not want to run an aviation company. They want the benefits of ownership without the burden of operations.

That is exactly what our Aircraft Management Program delivers:

  • Full operational setup post-acquisition
  • 24/7 flight planning and dispatch
  • Maintenance and airworthiness oversight (CAMO)
  • Pilot selection, training, and supervision
  • Transparent reporting and cost control
  • Option to place aircraft under commercial charter to offset costs

We currently manage a fleet of diverse aircraft, from turboprops to long-range jets, across Europe and beyond. You retain ownership and control, while we handle all day-to-day operations.

Ownership vs. Lease or Fractional - What Is Right for You?

Many assume full ownership only makes sense if you fly 300+ hours per year. The reality is more nuanced.

If you fly 50–100 hours per year, ownership may still be the right choice if your aircraft is professionally managed and made available for charter when you do not use it. In many cases, charter income offsets a significant portion of the annual fixed costs.

Fixed vs. Variable Costs - The Key to Smart Ownership
  • Fixed Costs: predictable yearly expenses (crew, hangar, insurance, maintenance, CAMO)
  • Variable Costs: incurred per flight hour (fuel, handling, catering, navigation fees)

By allowing us to place your aircraft on the charter market when it is not in use, the charter income often covers the fixed costs, leaving you primarily responsible for variable costs when you fly. This model can make ownership financially attractive even for lower utilization levels.

Your Decision, Guided by Numbers

Every scenario is different. That is why we do not rely on rules of thumb – we provide you with a tailored financial analysis comparing ownership, leasing, and fractional options, with clear projections of costs and potential charter income.

This deeper level of analysis adds complexity, but that is exactly why clients turn to us. We simplify the decision-making process and guide you toward the structure that truly fits your lifestyle and financial strategy.

Why Clients Choose Stella Aviation

We are not just acquisition consultants. We manage aircraft every day – for clients with very different needs, structures, and goals. That gives us a unique perspective when advising new owners.

Whether you are acquiring your first aircraft or optimizing your fleet structure, Stella Aviation gives you clarity, control, and continuity – all under one roof.