Sector Advisory
Aviation
Financial planning and tax structuring for private aircraft ownership, where getting the details right can save millions.
Overview
Understanding the Landscape
Private aviation is one of the largest capital commitments a person or business can make. The financial implications go well beyond the purchase price: depreciation strategy, entity structuring, use documentation, and regulatory compliance all play a role.
We advise high-net-worth individuals, family offices, and corporate owners on every financial aspect of aircraft ownership. The difference between a well-structured and poorly planned acquisition can be millions in tax liability.
Our advisory combines FAA regulatory awareness, IRS compliance, and strategic tax planning to make sure your aviation investment works within your broader financial picture.
Advisory Services
How We Serve
Acquisition Structuring
Entity formation, financing optimization, and purchase advisory to maximize tax benefits from day one, including bonus depreciation and MACRS strategies.
Depreciation & Cost Recovery
Accelerated depreciation planning, 100% bonus depreciation analysis, MACRS schedules, and recapture modeling.
Use Documentation
Flight-log systems and use-allocation frameworks to substantiate business use percentages and hold up under IRS examination.
Entity & Ownership Architecture
LLC, trust, and corporate structuring for aircraft ownership that optimizes liability, tax treatment, and estate planning.
FAA & Regulatory Coordination
Financial oversight aligned with FAA Part 91 and Part 135 requirements.
Disposition & Exchange Planning
Tax-efficient strategies for aircraft sales, trade-ins, and like-kind exchanges.
The Athena Distinction
Why Athena
- Deep expertise at the intersection of aviation tax law, FAA regulation, and financial planning
- Experience across turboprops to large-cabin intercontinental jets
- Documentation frameworks that support aggressive but defensible positions
- Understanding of aircraft management, charter revenue, and operational cost dynamics
- Advisor-level service from professionals who know this space
Our advisory engagements are powered by the Noesis™ CFO financial analysis platform, delivering real-time executive dashboards, performance analytics, and strategic insights.
Your aircraft is a strategic asset. It deserves financial counsel that treats it that way.