Top Rated  (CFI) Certified Flight Instructor  (CFII) Certified Flight Instrument  (MEI) Multi Engine Instructor  Private Pilot (PPL)/ (FAA)  Instrument Rating (IR) Courses
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Stratus Financial

Turn Your Aviation Dreams Into Reality With Stratus Financial
Logo for Stratus Financial featuring a blue stylized wing icon to the left and the company name in blue gradient text. Tagline below reads, For Pilots, By Pilots—supporting every flight instructor on their journey. - CFI Academy

What is Stratus Financial?​

Stratus Financial was founded by FAA-certified Flight and Ground Instructors who are passionate about helping others achieve their aviation dreams. We understand that funding your goals also means supporting your family’s future. That’s why Stratus exists — with us, the sky is no longer the limit.

Why Choose a Stratus Loan?

At Stratus, you’re more than just a credit score. We consider your entire journey as an aviator and aim to set you up for success before you apply. Our lending packages offer:

  • Competitive rates to help you go from zero to hero.
  • Full financing for your complete flight training and beyond.
  • Flexible payment options, including a 12-month deferment while you finish training and secure a job.
  • Freedom to pay off your loan anytime without penalties.

Student Loan Requirements

To ensure your loan is approved, please meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Pay stubs from the past two (2) months
  • Bank statements from the past two (2) months
  • Driver’s license
  • Employer's name and contact number (for verification)
  • 1st or 2nd-class medical certificate
  • Co-borrower is recommended
  • Pilot certificate (if applicable)
  • Subject to credit check and underwriting

Support Throughout Your Training

Stratus provides comprehensive support, including:

  • Guidance from experienced flight and ground instructors for training, check rides, and airline interviews.
  • Resume review, editing, and building assistance.
  • AMA calls with pilots in the 121 and 135 sectors to learn about their experiences and career paths.
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become a Certificated Flight Instructor in just 3 weeks | Our Recent CFI Graduates
Certified Flight Instructor teaching student in aircraft cockpit.
Two men stand in front of a small blue and white airplane, shaking hands and smiling. One holds a piece of paper, celebrating his achievement as an Accelerated CFI. The weather is clear and sunny, with trees visible in the background. - CFI Academy

Loan Process

Our loan process is straightforward and quick so you can start your pilot training as soon as possible!

Black and white icon of a hand holding a pencil, writing on a clipboard with lines representing text—ideal for illustrating tasks performed by a Flight Instructor or Accelerated CFI during training evaluations. - CFI Academy

01

Application

Submit your loan application with the required documents to get started.

A simple black and white icon showing a gear behind a shipping box, symbolizing package management or settings—ideal for organizing materials for an Accelerated CFI or Certificated Flight Instructor program. - CFI Academy

02

Processing

We review your information to ensure everything is complete.

A black and white icon of a document with a checkmark, horizontal lines representing text, a signature at the bottom, and a pen to the right—perfect for representing an Accelerated CFI or Certificated Flight Instructor program. - CFI Academy

03

Underwriting

Your application is evaluated based on creditworthiness and eligibility criteria.

A simple icon of a document with a folded corner, featuring a large check mark inside a circle near the top and horizontal lines below, symbolizing approval or completion for an Accelerated CFI or Certificated Flight Instructor. - CFI Academy

04

Approval

Receive confirmation that your loan has been approved.

Black and white line drawing of two hands shaking, symbolizing agreement or partnership, with a dollar sign above them—representing a financial deal or business transaction related to an Accelerated CFI or Certificated Flight Instructor program. - CFI Academy

05

Funding

Funds are disbursed so you can begin your flight training.

Black outline drawing of an airplane viewed from above, its wings extended and tail fin visible, on a plain background—perfect for any Certificated Flight Instructor or those pursuing an Accelerated CFI program. - CFI Academy

06

Pilot Training

Use your loan to achieve your aviation goals and complete your training.

Become A Pilot

Start your admissions flight today

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Common Questions About the Flight Loan

A cosigner is not required for a Stratus loan if you qualify on your own. However, they will contact you if a cosigner is needed to move forward with your loan process.

We conditionally approve you within 1 business day and typically fund loans within 2-3 weeks, depending on how quickly you provide responses.
When you apply with us, we obtain a soft pull of your credit, which does not negatively impact your credit score. If your loan is approved, we will make a hard inquiry of your credit.
Stratus Financial pays your choice of school directly so you do not have to worry about lack of funds to continue training.
You may prepay the loan in whole or in part without penalty.

Start Your Flight Training
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Fill out the form with your details.

We are experts in CFI Certifications!

Fast Track Your Career In Aviation!

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Become a CFI in just 3 weeks!

Accelerated or Flexible Options Available. 

Classes Starting Soon!

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  • Currently Accepting U.S. Students Only.