Many of the pledge ships listed on the RSI website are still in the concept phase of their development. In order to ensure backers are not left without a usable ship when they pledge to the development of Star Citizen, loaner ships are made available for ships that aren't quite "flight ready".
Loaner ships are often of similar class, size, or role to the ship you pledged for. However, it's important to note that not all Loaner Ships are a direct analog to the ship they are temporarily replacing.
In the event that a ship is not properly suitable for use in Arena Commander, an appropriate single seat fighter will also be granted to your account.
Are loaner ships permanent?
Loaner ships are temporary and are only available while the new ship you have pledged for is in development. Once production has finished and the ship in question becomes flight ready, the Loaner Ship will be removed from your hangar.
Where can I use loaner ships?
Loaner ships are available to use both in Arena Commander (where applicable) and the Persistent Universe. Depending on the type of ship, you may need to find a specific hangar, port, or location to spawn it.
Can I change the loaner ship for another?
No - As loaner ships are provided based upon the ship in your hangar, all backers who own the same ship in concept will receive the same loaner ship, and this cannot be changed on a per backer basis.
Which ship will I receive as a loaner ship?
If you have pledged for a ship that is currently in production, check out the Ship Loaner Matrix for more information on the ship you will receive as a loaner.
I have a ship that should be receiving a loaner but it is not showing up in my hangar in game.
To receive your loaners for any ships that are not yet flight ready, you must own a game package. Double check your pledges to ensure you have one if your loaners have not been attributed in-game, which means some sort of pledge that includes access to Star Citizen.
If you are missing one or have reclaimed all of your game packages for credit without realizing, you can acquire one here on the pledge store: Game Packages