Scope Aircraft Finance Celebrates 50 Years of Aviation Financing Excellence
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Scope Aircraft Finance (Scope), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Park National Corporation (Park) is celebrating 50 years of helping aviators realize their aircraft ownership goals with professional, personalized finance solutions. Scope’s team has earned the respect of pilots and business owners across the United States, serving the aviation industry for five decades.
Founded in 1975 by Joe and Roberta Kemple, Scope was born from a simple but powerful vision: to make the convenience of air travel more accessible. Through the years, the company has grown to be a trusted partner in aviation finance, known for its agility, creativity in financing, and deep understanding of the industry.
“Fifty years is a milestone that reflects our dedication to the aviation industry and helping customers connect to what matters most to them,” said Scope President Michael J. Smith. “We’re building the next chapter based on the foundation established by the Kemples and kept alive by Charlie Sauter. Our commitment to personalized service, creative problem-solving, and helping customers be the hero of the story remains unchanged.”
What sets Scope apart even further is its team of experienced lenders, many of whom are pilots or have aviation backgrounds. Our experienced lending team pairs aviation lending expertise with attention to detail to provide flexible financing options that fit the customer’s goals. These professionals build lasting relationships with customers, offering insights and understanding that only come from firsthand experience in the skies.
“Everything we do is in-house from application to closing to servicing, so one call truly does it all and our customers appreciate that,” said Smith. “Our team is passionate about helping people experience the freedom of flight with financing that fits.”
Scope is a member of the National Aviation Finance Association (NAFA) and the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) and continues to uphold the highest standards of integrity and service in the aviation industry.
To commemorate this milestone, Scope unveiled a refreshed brand identity, including a new logo that both the company’s aviation heritage and forward-looking spirit. The rebrand honors its legacy while signaling a continued commitment to innovation, agility and customer-first service as they enter the next chapter of growth.
Late-1990s Scope Team (Top, L to R) Charlie Sauter, Bob Kent (Bottom, L to R) Donna Parsley, Jean Moffitt
Scope Team, 2025
About Scope Aircraft Finance
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Scope Aircraft Finance has $320.8 million in total loans (as of June 30, 2025). Founded in 1975, Scope serves customers in the 48 contiguous United States.
