Lake Oswego, Oregon – May 13, 2025 – Stratus Financial and Lightspeed Aviation are pleased to announce a new partnership aimed at giving student pilots a safer and more affordable start to their aviation journey. This collaboration makes it easier for students to access essential safety equipment—specifically, Lightspeed’s industry-leading ANR headsets—by bundling the cost into their flight training loans with no upfront expense.
Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic, Stratus Financial emerged at a time of uncertainty with a bold vision: to make aviation education more accessible through hassle-free financing tailored for future pilots. Recognizing the growing need for skilled aviators, Stratus built a model that partners directly with flight schools and aviation investors to deliver practical funding solutions and essential tools to students from day one.
Now, with Lightspeed Aviation onboard, students can equip themselves with premium safety gear like the Lightspeed Delta Zulu® headset. These headsets not only expedite the training process but enhance safety for all pilots.
“Our premium headsets have the essential flight recording feature to help students learn faster and more efficiently,” said Heider Lazzarini, President of Lightspeed Aviation. “The ability to record flight comms, have instant playback, and archive these recordings is an effective way to fast-pace a student’s progression to becoming a pilot. And the carbon monoxide detection with audible voice alerts in the Lightspeed Delta Zulu headset will keep students safe as they are learning to fly in various aircraft throughout their studies.”
Lazzarini adds, “We are excited to partner with Stratus Financial to enable pilots’ development at all stages in their careers in pursuit of their passion for aviation.”
“Partnering with Lightspeed reflects our shared commitment to setting students up for success from the start of their training,” said Anthony Geraci, CEO and Co-Founder of Stratus Financial. “By integrating the best safety technology into our financing packages, we’re not just helping students afford flight school—we’re helping them become safer, more confident pilots.”
“As flight instructors and pilots, we understand that what students bring into the cockpit matters,” said Brandon Martini, COO and Co-Founder of Stratus Financial. “This partnership ensures they have access to the tools that enhance learning, improve safety, and ultimately accelerate their journey to becoming commercial pilots.”
About Lightspeed Aviation
Lightspeed Aviation is a leading manufacturer of premium aviation headsets and helmet products. Since its first product launch in 1996 at AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, the company has built a reputation for pioneering innovation in aviation communication. In 2022, Lightspeed introduced a new category of aviation products by layering life-saving technologies on top of its award-winning audio and ANR platform, continuing its mission of “creating products that protect and save lives.” To discover the right Lightspeed headset for your training, visit www.LightspeedAviation.com.
About Stratus Financial
Stratus Financial is a mission-driven aviation finance company founded in 2020 by FAA-certified flight and ground instructors. Built by pilots, for pilots, Stratus provides flexible loan programs and tailored financial solutions to students pursuing careers in commercial aviation. By working directly with flight schools and aviation partners, Stratus helps aspiring pilots launch their careers with the tools and support they need to succeed. To learn more about Stratus Financial, visit https://stratus.finance.
Leave a Comment