Mortgages for Pilots, Airline Staff and Cabin Crew
Mortgages for Pilots, Airline Staff and Cabin Crew
Working in the airline industry often means fluctuating hours, variable income, and complex payslips, which can make applying for a mortgage feel more complicated than it should. Whether you're a commercial pilot, flight attendant, or part of ground operations, your income structure shouldn’t hold you back from owning a home.
At Drummonds Finance Group, we specialise in helping aviation professionals across the UK secure mortgages that reflect their actual earnings, including flying hours, allowances, and shift-based income. With access to over 100 lenders, we find the right match based on your unique pay structure and career path.
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Why Airline Staff Often Need Specialist Advice
Many aviation professionals come to us after being told “no” by high street banks, not because they can’t afford a mortgage, but because the lender didn’t understand their payslip.
Your income might include flight hours, layover allowances, per diems, international tax arrangements, or even commission. You might also receive a base salary that only reflects part of your real earning power. That’s why it’s essential to work with a broker who knows how to package your income correctly.
We take time to understand how your earnings are structured, whether you’re salaried, paid per flight, or working on contract. Then we match you with lenders who can assess your affordability fairly and sensibly.
Client Testimonies
Mortgages for Pilots
Pilots often earn a strong income, but because it’s split across multiple categories, basic pay, flight hours, and bonuses, it can be harder to prove to a lender without context. If you’ve recently changed airlines, work across borders, or are flying less during certain months, this variability may raise red flags with banks that prefer simplicity.
We work with lenders who understand the aviation sector. They’re happy to look at full income evidence, including allowances and flying hours over a 6 to 12-month average. If you’ve got a contract for a new role, we can often secure a mortgage based on your upcoming pay, even if you haven’t completed a full year with your new employer.
Mortgage Advice for Cabin Crew and Ground Staff
Cabin crew often face similar challenges. Income fluctuates based on routes, shift patterns and seasonal flight schedules. Some months you’re earning well above average, while others may be quieter. Unfortunately, many lenders will only assess your base salary, which may reduce the amount you're able to borrow.
We understand this cycle and work with lenders who are comfortable averaging out your income to give a more realistic picture. If you’re on a fixed contract, undergoing a temporary secondment, or have returned to work after a break, we’ll help explain your circumstances and ensure your application is judged fairly.
The same applies to ground and operations staff. From dispatchers to engineers, we’ve helped people across every part of the aviation industry secure competitive mortgage deals even when their contracts or income types were more complex than average.
Mortgages for Self-Employed Airline Contractors
If you’re flying or supporting flights on a self-employed basis, whether through a limited company or short-term contracts, lenders will require proof of consistent income. We can guide you through what they’ll expect, from company accounts to tax returns or day-rate agreements.
The key is to present your case clearly. Even with just one year of trading history, we can still assist. Our job is to present lenders with a comprehensive view of your earnings and explain your situation in a way that works in your favour.
First-Time Buyers in the Airline Industry
If you're buying your first home, you’ve probably realised that mortgage applications aren't built around airline pay structures. That’s where we come in.
We'll explain how much you can borrow, what deposit you’ll need, and which lenders will accept your full income, not just your basic salary. Even if you've only been in your role a short time, or you’re on a probation period, we’ll help you explore the options that still work for you.
Moving, Remortgaging or Investing in Property
Already own a property? We regularly help airline staff remortgage to get better rates, release equity, or prepare for a move. Whether you’re relocating for a new base, upgrading your home, or remortgaging to reduce monthly costs, we’ll handle the details and find the most suitable lender.
We also help pilots and crew secure buy-to-let mortgages. These are often based more on the rental income from the property than on your own earnings, but your background still plays a role. We’ll help you understand how your aviation income fits into the lender’s criteria — and what you can do to improve your chances if needed.
Tailored Advice, Exceptional Service
The Drummonds Advantage
At Drummonds, we recognise that no two clients are the same. Whether you're in your 60s, 70s, or beyond, our goal is to understand your financial position, retirement plans, and lifestyle before recommending any mortgage solution. We take the time to get it right.
We work with over 100 UK lenders, including those who specialise in later-life lending. Whether you're applying for a residential mortgage, a buy-to-let investment, or exploring interest-only options, we’ll guide you through the process clearly and carefully. You’ll have a dedicated adviser supporting you from enquiry through to completion.
Our service doesn’t end once your mortgage is approved. We continue to offer support with future remortgages, equity release questions, or managing a growing portfolio.
You don’t need to navigate later-life mortgages alone. We’ll match you with lenders who understand your full financial picture, not just your age.
Ready to simplify your mortgage journey? Contact us today to experience the Drummonds advantage with expert, personalised advice every step of the way.