Aircraft & Yacht Registration Support

Ownership

All aircraft and yachts must be registered somewhere.

Each registration state has its own benefits, requirements, and regulatory framework.

Over the past 20 years, the emergence of specialist aircraft registries focused on business aviation has made selecting the right register more important than ever.

Moving registers after purchase can be easier said than done, with time and cost implications that can be frustrating or prohibitive. Matters can become even more complex where aircraft finance is involved.

When reviewing the most suitable aircraft register, it is important to consider how and where the aircraft will be used. This will quickly help narrow the options. For example, if the aircraft will be placed on charter or used commercially, this may automatically exclude registries that only permit private operations.

Similarly, if the aircraft will be based or operated predominantly within a particular jurisdiction, local requirements may necessitate registration in that location.

We have established relationships with aircraft registries worldwide and can assist clients in selecting and coordinating the most appropriate registration solution.

A selection of popular aircraft registries we work with are listed below and we would be pleased to make the relevant introductions where required.

Similar considerations apply to yacht ownership, with a wide range of marine and shipping registries available, each offering different operational, regulatory, financing, and commercial advantages.

As with aircraft, selecting the right registry from the outset can help avoid unnecessary complexity and provide greater flexibility throughout the ownership lifecycle.

A selection of leading yacht registries we work with are shown below and we would be pleased to make the appropriate introductions where required.

Why Martyn Fiddler?

Spotting issues before they become client problems is a key part of what we do.

During a recent client review, one of our senior administrators, drawing on more than 20 years of industry experience, identified discrepancies between the aircraft's operation and the requirements of the aircraft registry.

Their expertise and attention to detail highlighted a potential breach of operating conditions that may otherwise have gone unnoticed.

Thanks to their detailed understanding of registry requirements and operational best practice, the issue was identified and addressed promptly, helping to manage compliance risk and support the client’s objectives.

We are committed to supporting clients through proactive oversight and specialist expertise. Through transparent collaboration, we help ensure assets remain compliant, protected, and structured for long term success.

Who leads this work

Martin Kennaugh

Client Services Director

Martin is Client Services Director at Martyn Fiddler, with extensive experience in aviation administration, client relationships and VAT structuring.

He supports operators and manufacturers with specialist guidance.

Heather Gordon

Legal Director

Heather Gordon is Legal Director at Martyn Fiddler with extensive experience in aviation law and corporate aviation.

She advises on tax, customs and legal matters and regularly speaks at international industry events.

Carly Quayle

Client Services Manager

A Chartered Accountant and STEP qualified Trust and Estate Practitioner, Carly has worked within trust and corporate service providers on the Isle of Man since 2012.

Andy Duggan

Assistant Client Services Manager

Having joined Martyn Fiddler in 2009, Andy brings extensive industry knowledge and experience to his role as Assistant Manager within the Client Services team.

Regulatory & Industry Bodies

Other Ownership & Corporate Services

Corporate & Trust Services

Tailored corporate and ownership services for aircraft, superyachts and other high value assets, with compliant structures and ongoing administration.

Directorship & Leadership

Experienced directors supporting compliant ownership structures, governance requirements and properly documented decision making.

Administration & Corporate Governance

Board meetings, minutes, statutory registers and filings managed to support compliant and well governed ownership structures.

Accountancy

Bookkeeping, management accounts and statutory accounts for asset holding entities, with support tailored to high value ownership.

Family Office & Private Wealth Structuring

Specialist support for family offices managing high value assets, working alongside existing advisers and family teams.

Asset Repossession

Corporate, registry and customs support for aircraft repossession, helping lenders and lessors manage complex recovery situations.

Economic Substance

Support with economic substance requirements, helping demonstrate genuine decision making, activity and reporting in the relevant jurisdiction.

Need to speak to our experts?

Whether you are acquiring a new asset, reviewing an existing ownership entity or planning for the future, our team is here to provide clear, confident guidance. A short call is usually enough to identify the right route.

Book a meeting with an expert