Grounded in Strategy, Lifted by Purpose: Home Loans for Aviation Professionals
Whether you fly the skies or keep planes running safely, your home base matters. We specialize in mortgage options tailored to variable income, odd schedules, and aviation’s unique challenges.
We Understand the Aviation Life
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Mortgage Solutions That Fit Your Altitude
You may work across time zones, earn hourly or per diem pay, or receive bonuses that most banks don’t understand. We do — and we structure your loan for smooth takeoff.
We help aviation professionals including:
- Commercial pilots (airline, corporate, freight)
- Flight attendants
- Aircraft mechanics
- Air traffic controllers
- Aviation consultants and training staff
Lending Options for High-Frequency Flyers
Custom Programs, No Turbulence
Why Aviation Pros Trust Stairway
A Home Financing Partner That Flies at Your Pace
“I’m in the air more than I’m on the ground. Jim’s team handled everything virtually and closed before my next international leg.”
— Ben S., Airline Captain
I’m paid hourly or per flight. Can that income be used?
Yes — we average your past 12–24 months and present it clearly for underwriters who understand your field.
What if I’m always on the move or traveling?
Our entire process can be handled remotely. We prioritize virtual meetings, secure document upload, and e-signing.
Can I buy a second home or investment property in a different state?
Absolutely — we help aviation professionals qualify across state lines, often while keeping their current residence.
Can I qualify if I have per diem or non-taxable income?
Yes — we know how to properly document and present per diem and other non-traditional income to maximize your approval.
Meet Jim Blackburn
Specialist in High-Mobility Lending | Founder, Stairway Mortgage
I work with aviation professionals every week. Your career’s flexibility shouldn’t be punished by rigid banks. We structure every loan like a perfect flight plan — efficient, compliant, and built for your goals.
Don't Risk Losing The House Because You Weren't Prepared.
Winning offers are planned in advance, losing offers just failed to plan.
Beginning your preapproval process 60-90 days before looking at homes is the smart way to go.Â
100% Client Satisfaction
Real Comments, Real People
Hear From Some Past Clients of Our Founder
First-time home purchase and refinance with fast closing
Great customer service! We were living in California for 20+ years, and every year our rent went up, so we decided to move to Virginia and get our own house. Jim helped us with our very first home mortgage and constantly updated us with the lowering rates. After we were presented with different options, we decided to do a refi, and his team made it possible for us to grab the opportunity to shorten our term from 30 to 15 years at a much lower rate. In just around three weeks we were able to close. Me and my family will definitely recommend them!
Johnny Blan - via Facebook
Retired Investor -
CALIFORNIA
CALIFORNIA
Guidance through the purchase process with clear explanations
They worked with me on the purchase process. Their knowledge helped me to choose the option that was most convenient. From the beginning they explained the process. Thanks Jim!
Dayana Ruiz - via Facebook
Mortgage Loan Originator Columbus Capital Lending -
FLORIDA
FLORIDA
Investor-friendly lender who goes the extra mile
I'm an RE investor. Had multiple loan officers but one really stands out – JIM BLACKBURN. Now, he is working on a third deal with me. He does go the extra mile. A few examples from the past: I have tons of properties and live in China with unique income (he made it work!). He called me in China at 1 AM to get information to close the deal. He is super efficient with collecting the right documents upfront to avoid a lot of back and forth later with processors. You can't go wrong with Jim.
Dennis Nikolaev - Facebook
Studio Leader at APCE Dennis Studio -
CHINA
CHINA
