NAFA member SOLJETS shares six principles shaping smarter aircraft acquisitions.
Aircraft acquisition today looks very different than it did even a few years ago.
Buyers have always cared about mission fit, operating cost, and long term value. What’s different today is how tight the market feels when you’re actually in a transaction. Inventory moves quickly. Inspection slots are limited. And small decisions early in the process can have a real impact on cost, timing, and risk later on.
Because of that, aircraft acquisitions have become less about browsing listings and more about controlling the process. That includes sourcing the right aircraft, managing the inspection and documentation properly, and structuring the deal so there are no surprises after closing.
The difference shows up in execution. In how quickly the right aircraft can be identified, how cleanly issues are handled during inspection, and how well the transaction is managed from start to finish.
General aviation activity remains strong, with shipments reaching $31.9B in 2024 and business jet deliveries continuing to increase year over year. That level of activity reinforces the importance of making disciplined buying decisions that protect long term value.
This article was originally published by SOLJETS on February 1, 2026.