Aviation is not your typical lending landscape. Aircraft are complex assets, charter operators run on tight timelines, and most traditional banks simply don’t speak the language. For AIG Aeronautics — an Oklahoma City-based aviation investment and leasing company — that gap was one of the biggest obstacles to growth.

AIG’s model is straightforward in concept but demanding in execution: acquire high-quality aircraft, partner with charter operators through structured lease agreements, and expand a portfolio of income-producing aviation assets. The challenge? Finding a bank willing to truly understand the asset, move at the speed of opportunity, and structure deals that reflect the real-world economics of the business.

That’s where Prism came in.

Before partnering with Prism, AIG faced a frustrating reality familiar to many specialized industries. Traditional lenders often lack familiarity with aviation assets, which made underwriting slower, more conservative, and sometimes misaligned with how aircraft leasing actually works. Deals were harder to execute quickly. Portfolio growth was constrained by financing friction rather than lack of opportunity.

“Before working with Prism, one of the main challenges was securing consistent and scalable financing for aircraft acquisitions. This created friction in executing deals quickly and scaling the portfolio efficiently.” — Antonio Iguina, Member at AIG Aeronautics

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A Partner That Understands the Asset

What set Prism apart was simple: they did their homework. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all underwriting lens, Prism took the time to understand aviation as an asset class — the revenue model behind charter leasing, the operational realities of the industry, and what it actually takes to move on a deal before the window closes.

“Prism stood out because of their understanding of asset-based lending and their willingness to take a practical, business-oriented approach to aviation financing. They demonstrated flexibility, responsiveness, and a clear appreciation of the revenue model behind leasing aircraft to charter companies.”

That understanding has translated into real results. In one particularly time-sensitive transaction, Prism’s responsiveness and streamlined process allowed AIG to secure financing within a tight window — closing a deal that could have easily slipped away.

“That kind of execution directly translates into revenue and growth on our end.”

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Built for the Long Haul

Four years into their business, AIG Aeronautics has been able to scale more confidently, pursue opportunities they might have otherwise passed on, and strengthen relationships with charter operators by delivering aircraft when and where they’re needed.

For Antonio, Prism isn’t just a lender — it’s a strategic partner.

“Prism doesn’t operate as just a lender — they understand the business and act as a strategic partner. Communication is clear, decisions are timely, and there’s a level of trust that allows us to move efficiently on opportunities.”

For any business operating in a specialized industry where speed and understanding matter, that kind of partnership makes all the difference.

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