When Cogent Bank launched its Business Aviation Lending vertical in early 2023, it made a bold move into a niche market that few banks ventured to enter. Under the leadership of Jim Crowley, Managing Director of Business Aviation, this initiative hasn’t just taken off – it’s soaring.
Business aviation contributes $150 billion to the U.S. economic output alone. It may surprise you to learn that only 3 percent of the approximate 15,000 business aircraft registered in the U.S. are flown by Fortune 500 Companies, while the remaining 97 percent are operated by a cross-section of organizations including government, universities, charitable organizations, and businesses of all sizes. The sector continues to grow, driven by demand for time-saving travel solutions among executives and entrepreneurs.
A Distinctive Market, Expertly Served
Jim brings more than 25 years of experience to the table, with over three years leading this vertical. He’s overseen hundreds of millions of dollars in transactions, typically ranging from $10 to $20 million, with the capacity to go up to $40 million. His team serves clients nationwide—from California to New York—with a growing focus on Florida. Why Florida? The Sunshine State is experiencing a surge of wealth migration from the Northeast and boasts five of the nation’s busiest business jet airports. In 2024, Florida earned the top spot for business jet departures, representing 56% growth over pre-pandemic departures in 2019.
As international and younger wealth flows into Florida, a new generation of entrepreneurs is emerging – people who value their time and families. Despite global challenges like tariffs and market fluctuations, the demand for private aviation remains strong. In fact, 95% of Cogent’s transactions are U.S.-based.
Who’s driving this demand? Entrepreneurs, private equity professionals, and leaders in innovative industries like AI and tech. For them, aircraft aren’t just luxury items, they’re essential business tools. As Jim puts it, they’re “time machines” that let you skip the inefficiencies of commercial travel and be airborne within an hour.
Putting People First
What truly sets Cogent’s Business Aviation Lending team apart is its people-first philosophy. Jim’s approach is simple: know your clients, meet them in person, and offer thoughtful consultation – not a hard sell.
“We’re not in the sales business; we’re in the consultation business,” Jim explains. “First-time buyers may be experts in their fields, but they often need help navigating the technical and financial aspects of aircraft ownership. Our job is to give the best advice possible even if that means advising against a purchase.”
This philosophy isn’t just talk; it’s how the team operates. Most deals come through referrals, repeat clients, and word of mouth. Jim and his team are well-connected and have become the go-to resource for those entering the business aviation space. They don’t chase every opportunity; instead, they focus on the right clients, the right aircraft, and the right missions.
Grounded in Relationships, Soaring with Expertise
Jim’s background includes high-level finance roles, including a tenure at Guggenheim Partners. His experience aligns perfectly with Cogent’s entrepreneurial spirit. The team specializes in asset-based financing, primarily for pre-owned aircraft that can remain viable for 25 to 35 years.
The approach is nimble, opportunistic, and built on relationships- not bureaucracy. Whether it’s financing a jet for a tech pioneer in Nevada or guiding a first-time buyer in Florida, Jim believes in the power of face-to-face meetings. “Something special happens when you take the trip, sit down with a client, and talk about their needs,” he says.
The Runway Ahead
Looking forward, Jim sees growth fueled by emerging wealth in Florida’s tech and investment communities and by Cogent’s reputation for personalized service. From high-net-worth individuals prioritizing family to business leaders seeking efficiency, Cogent’s aviation clients know they’re getting expertise they can trust.
In a world where speed and precision matter, Cogent Bank’s Business Aviation Lending vertical offers something rare: world-class aviation finance with a personal touch. With seasoned professionals at the helm, the sky isn’t the limit, it’s just the beginning.
Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational/educational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed in this document may be those of the individuals and may not necessarily reflect those of Cogent Bancorp and its subsidiaries and affiliates, or the entities they may represent. Content contained herein may be used in connection with the advertising and/or marketing of products offered by Cogent Bank or Cogent Private Wealth. The material is not intended to provide or substitute for legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any Cogent Bank product or service. You should consult with a legal, financial, tax, or other appropriate professional(s) for your specific needs and/or objectives before making any decisions.
