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NAFA Administrator posted an articleRolland Vincent Associates releases report on Structural Divide Between Super Mid-Size and Large ... see more
PLANO, TX – September 4, 2025 – Rolland Vincent Associates (RVA), a consultancy specializing in business aviation intelligence, strategy, and forecasting, has released a groundbreaking market analysis entitled Tailored to Fit: Decoding the Structural Break Between Super Mid-Size and Large Business Jets. This in-depth study examines the clear differences between the two segments and their implications for future aircraft design, product strategy, and investment decisions.
RVA publishes occasional deep-dive commentaries on key business aviation topics, aiming to spark informed discussion and encourage product innovation—long proven to stimulate demand for business jets. The first in this series examined tariffs, concluding that the sector’s future is best served by preserving a zero-tariff regime.
This second report tackles another central question for the future of business aviation: Where is the next clean-sheet business jet platform most likely to emerge? Based on RVA’s analysis, the most likely candidates are either the upper end of the Super Mid-Size (SMS) segment or within the Large Jet class. “Our analysis shows that SMS and Large Jets are not points on a smooth continuum—they are separate markets with their own rules of engagement”, said RVA President Rollie Vincent. “Misreading this structural divide can lead to costly missteps in product planning. Our report offers clear guidance for OEMs and investors on where and how to compete in the next generation of business jets.”
Drawing on the latest data and decades of industry advisory experience, RVA’s research finds that while SMS and Large Jets are often grouped together in strategic discussions, they are in fact distinct markets—serving different customers, missions, and value propositions.
Download full market analysis here
This report was originally published by Rolland Vincent Associates in September 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleGAMA Releases Second Quarter 2025 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report see more
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) published the Second Quarter 2025 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report. The results for the first six months of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, show increased shipments in the business jet and piston airplane sectors and an increase in the overall value of aircraft shipments.
Aircraft shipments through the second quarter of 2025, when compared to the same period in 2024, saw piston airplanes increase 5.1% with 810 units, turboprops decrease 4.3% with 268 airplanes, and business jets increase 9.9% with 354 airplanes. The value of airplane deliveries through the second quarter of 2025 was $12.3 billion, an increase of 9.9%.
This report was originally published by GAMA on September 9, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleThe Arrival of the 4th Quarter Rush in August see more
NAFA member Soar Aviation Law shares their latest article on the arrival of the 4th quarter rush.
Historically, the fourth quarter has been the busiest period for aircraft transactions. However, 2025 is proving to be an exception. The surge in activity has begun unusually early, with August already showing signs of the traditional fourth-quarter rush. The shift is not coincidental – it is the result of several converging factors that have created a sense of urgency among buyers. Chief among these are the reinstatement of 100% bonus depreciation under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), labor shortages affecting inspection availability, and ongoing uncertainty surrounding aircraft tariffs.
The OBBBA permanently reinstates 100% bonus depreciation for qualified property placed into service after January 19, 2025 under Section 168(k). This applies to new and pre-owned aircraft, provided they are predominantly used in the United States for qualified business purposes. It is important when establishing the aircraft ownership and operating structure to avoid related party leases or personal use, which can limit qualified business use. This means businesses can deduct the entire purchase price of an eligible aircraft in the year it is placed into service.
This article was originally published by Soar Aviation Law in August 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articlePreowned Single-Engine Helicopter Pricing Continues to Surge in First Half of 2025 see more
TORONTO, Canada, July 16, 2025 – Aero Asset, a global helicopter sales and market intelligence firm, released its 2025 Half Year Heli Market Trends Single-Engine Edition. Backed by Aero Asset’s expertise and proprietary market insight, the report delivers a detailed analysis of the global preowned single-engine helicopter market in the first half of 2025.
The report reveals that retail sales volume dropped 19% year-over-year (YOY) to a four-year low, while median transaction prices rose 19%. Supply for sale continued to climb, up 9% YOY and absorption rate reached a four-year peak Q2 2025.
“We’re seeing a combination of declining sales volume and prices soaring,” said Valerie Pereira, Aero Asset’s Vice President of Market Research. “Despite this market disparity, buyers continue to pursue mission-specific configurations. Notably, demand in the EMS segment grew in the first half of the year, signaling its continued resilience.”
Leveraging transactional data, fleet analysis, and proprietary market tracking tools, Aero Asset’s half year 2025 report provides a detailed view of global sales & supply dynamics, absorption rates, pricing, and liquidity across the single-engine segment. Below highlights reflect key performance indicators shaping the preowned market in the first half of the year:
Market Highlights:
- Retail Sales Volume: 76 units sold S1 2025, totaling $195 million (–19% in units YOY, –2% in value).
- Supply for Sale: 145 units available valued at $361 million (+9% YOY in units, +6% in value).
- Absorption Rate: Increased to 11 months, the highest level since 2021.
Pricing Trends:Pricing continued to climb in the first half of 2025, with median transaction prices rising 19% year-over-year. Utility-configured aircraft were a major contributor to the pricing momentum, with a 31% increase in transaction value YOY. On average, aircraft sold 13% below asking price, reflecting that asking prices remain high and buyers value-conscious.
Regional Performance:The North American market led global activity, accounting for two-thirds of all transactions in the first half of 2025. Despite a 25% YOY decrease in transaction volume, European sales rebounded to second place overall. Sales in Asia Pacific and Latin America dropped sharply, down 43% and 60% respectively in S1 2025.
Liquidity Rankings:Airbus AS350 B3/B3e/H125 and Bell 407/GX/P/I remained the most liquid markets. In contrast, the Leonardo A119K/Ke/Kx reached a four-year performance low with an absorption rate of 2.4 years.
Download 2025 Half Year Heli Market Trends Single-Engine EditionTrusted by operators, financiers, and industry professionals worldwide, Heli Market Trends provides data-driven insight into the global preowned helicopter market. Download the full 2025 Half Year Heli Market Trends Single-Engine Edition at aeroasset.com/report. The report also features a conversation with Monica Mazzei, who recently joined Aero Asset as Senior Sales Director.
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About Aero Asset Inc.
Aero Asset is an international helicopter trading and market intelligence firm, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. With decades of experience marketing and selling aircraft across the globe, the company has grown into a leading helicopter sales and market intelligence firm offering aircraft remarketing & acquisition services, as well as an array of advisory services.Aero Asset is a member of the Vertical Aviation International, National Aircraft Finance Association, the European Helicopter Association, and the National Business Aviation Association.
For more information about the company, its inventory, or its full scope of services and industry reports, please visit https://aeroasset.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
No representation, guarantee or warranty is given as to the accuracy, completeness or likelihood of achievement or reasonableness of any statements made by or on behalf of Aero Asset. The information contained herein should not be construed as advice to purchase or sell aircraft. Neither Aero Asset nor its owners, directors, officers, employees, agents, independent contractors or other representatives shall be liable for any loss, expense or cost (including without limitation, any consequential or indirect loss) that you incur directly or indirectly as a result of or in connection with the use of data or statements contained herein or otherwise provided by Aero Asset.
Download 2025 Half Year Heli Market Trends Single-Engine Edition
This press release was originally published by Aero Asset on July 16, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleJetcraft releases their latest Market Intelligence Update see more
NAFA member Jetcraft released their Q2 2025 Market Intelligence Update.
A turning point in market momentum
After two years of softening market conditions, early 2025 has brought a notable shift. For the first time since 2022, the share of the business aviation fleet available for sale is declining. This re-tightening of inventory–driven by geopolitical uncertainty and a growing “wait-and-see” attitude among sellers–is already influencing transaction behavior.
Cilck here for more information
This report was originally published by Jetcraft on June 9, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleGlobal Jet Capital Releases Q1 2025 Market Brief see more
NAFA member Global Jet Capital releases their Q1 2025 Market Brief.
The Global Jet Capital Market Brief covers the state of the aviation market for new and pre-owned business jets; including, an overview of overall economic conditions, business jet flight operations, pre-owned and new market conditions, business jet transactions, and changes in aircraft residual values.
The report includes data and perspective on:
- General economic conditions
- Flight operations
- Fleet status
- New and used aircraft market conditions
- Transaction activity (new and used)
- Residual values
- Recent Global Jet Capital transactions
This Market Brief was originally published by Global Jet Capital on May 27, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleAero Asset Report Reveals Rising Preowned Twin-Engine Helicopter Prices Despite Mixed Market Perform see more
DALLAS, TX, March 10, 2025 – Aero Asset, a global helicopter sales and market intelligence firm, kicked off VERTICON 2025 with the release of its 2024 Annual Heli Market Trends Twin-Engine Edition, offering in-depth insights into the evolving preowned twin-engine helicopter market. The report revealed that pricing for preowned twin-engine helicopters held strong last year despite supply and performance shifts across market segments.
“Our research shows a slowdown in 2024 deal volume and a growing supply for sale,” said Valerie Pereira, Vice President of Market Research at Aero Asset. “However, the resilience in transaction prices—an 11% year-over-year increase—highlights the continued demand for quality preowned twin-engine helicopters, despite supply fluctuations.”
Drawing from proprietary market intelligence, Aero Asset’s 2024 Annual Heli Market Trends Twin-Engine Edition provides a detailed analysis of trends shaping the industry. The following are key highlights from the report.
Market Trends
- Retail sales volume of preowned twin-engine helicopters declined by 8% year-over-year (YOY) in 2024.
- Supply for sale increased 14% YOY, while absorption rates rose to 16 months of supply at current trade levels.
Weight Class Performance
- Light twin-engine helicopters: Sales remained steady, but supply surged 33% YOY.
- Medium twin-engine helicopters: Retail sales declined 22%, while supply dropped 15% YOY.
- Heavy twin-engine helicopters: Supply increased 13% YOY, but retail sales hit a five-year low S2 2024.
Average Transaction Prices
- Overall average transaction price (ATP) of preowned twin-engine helicopters was 11% higher YOY.
- Light twin-engine helicopters reached a five-year ATP peak in S2 2024.
- Medium and heavy twin-engine helicopters recorded an 8% YOY price increase.
Regional Shifts
- In 2024, Europe led in retail sales growth, surging 29% YOY.
- North America followed with a 6% YOY increase, accounting for 36% of global transactions, while Europe closely trailed at 32%.
- Supply for sale grew in Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America, but declined in other regions.
Liquidity Lineup
- The Airbus EC/H145 was the best-performing preowned twin-engine model in 2024.
- The EC/H135 and Leonardo AW109S/SP also ranked among the strongest contenders.
- The Sikorsky S76D and Airbus EC/H225 markets were the weakest performers.
Deal Pipeline
- At the close of Q4 2024, only 20 twin-engine retail transactions were pending, marking a three-year low.
- The number of transactions in progress was 50% lower Q4 2024 vs. 2023, signaling a possible cooling trend.
If you have questions or would like additional information, please visit the Aero Asset team at their VERTICON booth #5911 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas. If you are attending VERTICON, make plans to attend Aero Asset’s annual data presentation and press conference on March 10 at 2:00 p.m. CT in room #D222 on Level Two of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
Download the 2024 Annual Heli Market Trends Twin-Engine Edition:
This year’s edition also includes an interview with Jason Kmiecik, President and Owner of HeliValue$, Inc., and publisher of The Official Helicopter Blue Book®, the accepted standard for helicopter resale pricing information.
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About Aero Asset Inc.
Aero Asset is an international helicopter trading and market intelligence firm, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. With a multilingual team and decades of experience marketing and selling aircraft across the globe, the company has grown into a leading helicopter sales and market intelligence firm offering helicopter market reports, fair market value analysis, remarketing services, and tip-to-tail transaction execution services.
Aero Asset is a member of the Vertical Aviation International, National Aircraft Finance Association, the European Helicopter Association, and the National Business Aviation Association.
For more information about the company, its inventory, or its full scope of services and industry reports, please visit https://aeroasset.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
No representation, guarantee or warranty is given as to the accuracy, completeness or likelihood of achievement or reasonableness of any statements made by or on behalf of Aero Asset. The information contained herein should not be construed as advice to purchase or sell aircraft. Neither Aero Asset nor its owners, directors, officers, employees, agents, independent contractors or other representatives shall be liable for any loss, expense or cost (including without limitation, any consequential or indirect loss) that you incur directly or indirectly as a result of or in connection with the use of data or statements contained herein or otherwise provided by Aero Asset.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleGeneral Aviation Provides Robust Contribution to U.S. Economy see more
Study Reveals General Aviation Supports Over 1.3 Million Jobs and $339 Billion in Economic Output
WASHINGTON D.C., – February 19, 2025 - An updated study, released today, details the robust contributions of general aviation to the U.S. economy. A group of eight general aviation associations welcomed the update, conducted by PwC US Tax LLP, which determined that general aviation supports a total 1,330,200 jobs and a total of $339.2 billion in total economic output in the U.S.
The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), National Air Transportation Association (NATA), National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and Vertical Aviation International (VAI) sponsored the study. Leaders of the associations were encouraged by the study’s depiction of the significant contribution that the general aviation industry has on the U.S. economy.
“We are proud to report that despite challenges that have plagued the entire aerospace industry since the beginning of the pandemic, the segment of the U.S. economy affected by general aviation grew over 150,000 jobs and an additional $92 billion in annual economic impact since last reported in 2020,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO. “This growth takes place at a time when the importance of the societal benefits that general aviation brings to humankind around the globe cannot be overstated. From aerial firefighting, medical airlift, natural disaster response, law enforcement, agriculture protection, through drone vaccine delivery, general aviation is saving lives while our business aviation segment creates the corporate connectivity to allow companies the competitive advantage needed to create more jobs and promote economic growth. General aviation is the technology incubator for civil aviation – our evolution is spurring more sustainable propulsion systems, safety enhancing avionics capabilities, advanced material manufacturing, and improved maintenance, training and support. These amazing innovations all serve as a testament to the strength of our industry being propelled by the hardworking teams that are engineering, building, maintaining and servicing the aircraft of today and tomorrow.”
“This third report in just over a decade is further evidence that general aviation is a catalyst for local economies, a lifeline for rural communities, and essential to the makeup of American commerce,” said Mike Adamson, AEA president and CEO. “The economic contributions of this industry are profound, and the possibilities for the future are promising. As an industry dedicated to powering safer, more efficient flight, we are creating more high-tech and high-wage careers, innovating technologies, providing essential services and inspiring the next generation.”
See full report and PwC study here
This press release was originally published by GAMA on February 19, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleGAMA Releases 2024 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report see more
NAFA member, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released its' 2024 Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – February, 19, 2025 - Today, the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) released the 2024 General Aviation Aircraft Shipment and Billing Report during its annual State of the Industry Press Conference. Overall, when compared to 2023, nearly all aircraft segments saw increases in shipments and preliminary aircraft deliveries were valued at $31.2 billion, an increase of 13.3%.
“As we report on the strength of the general aviation manufacturing industry over the past year, it is notable that for the first time in a decade our companies again exceeded $30 billion in annual billings and for the second year in a row, we shipped more than 4,000 units. This strong performance provides great momentum into 2025, but it is essential that policymakers and regulators on both sides of the Atlantic recognize that for continued growth, they must work with industry on policy issues such as taxes, trade, regulations and supply chain. General aviation is at the forefront of advancing technology that makes flying safer and more sustainable, while providing efficient and reliable global economic connectivity, and air accessibility to rural and small communities that lack commercial airline services. It would be a travesty to see any of this progress halted due to policy decisions that could have unintended consequences for an industry that contributes so much.” said Pete Bunce, GAMA President and CEO.
Airplane shipments in 2024, when compared to 2023, saw piston airplanes increase 4.2% with 1,772 units, turboprops decline slightly by 1.9% with 626 units, and business jets increase 4.7% with 764 units. The value of airplane deliveries for 2024 was $26.7 billion, an increase of 14.3%.
Helicopter shipments in 2024, when compared to 2023, saw piston helicopters in-line with 210 units, and preliminary turbine helicopters in-line with 746 units, an increase of one and three units respectively. The preliminary value of helicopter deliveries for 2024 was $4.5 billion, an increase of approximately 7.6%.
Click here for GAMA's complete 2024 year-end report.
This report was originally published by GAMA on February 19, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articlejetAVIVA shares their 2025 Market Forecast see more
NAFA member jetAVIVA shares their 2025 Market Forecast.
One year ago, many wondered how the markets would fare heading into a volatile election season. But a data point shared around mid-2024 put our minds at ease: historically, election years’ sales volumes align closely with those of the preceding and succeeding years. While December data is still being finalized, preliminary reports suggest that pre-owned transactions in 2024 will likely show a year-over-year change within a single-digit percentage range, effectively indicating a stable market compared to 2023. Optimism and activity have increased post-election, and if market trends continue, this signals another promising year for the business aviation market.
There are a few variables on the board worth keeping an eye on. There’s buzzing chatter about a potential return of 100% Bonus Depreciation. While this would undoubtedly be a boon to the industry, the timing and scope of its impact remain uncertain. Additionally, December’s strong jobs report raised some concerns about inflation, while recent CPI and PPI data pointed to easing price pressures but left the future of interest rates uncertain. While rate adjustments remain on the table, they are unlikely to significantly influence deal behavior this year.
Looking more closely at the pre-owned business jet market, it remains robust. Inventory levels rose consistently throughout 2024 but generally stayed below 10% of the fleet for sale. High-pedigree aircraft continue to trade quickly, and pricing—while steadily normalizing to standard depreciation cycles—remains strong for desirable models.
December saw nearly double the number of closings compared to preceding months, with some deals still finalizing as we speak. Was this a typical year-end rush, or did pent-up demand unlock post-election? The first quarter of 2025 will likely provide the answer. At jetAVIVA, we’re off to a roaring start. Our forecast for the first quarter is on pace to be the best in my tenure with the firm, thanks largely to business initiated after November 5th.
This article was originally published by jetAVIVA on January 20, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleGlobal Jet Capital releases latest Business Aviation Market Brief see more
NAFA member, Global Jet Capital, released its latest Business Aviation Market Brief.
Q4 2024 marked a period of stability for the business jet market following unprecedented utilization and demand in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The market continued to demonstrate strength and resilience, evidenced by an increase in flight operations, continued strong backlogs, and a high volume of transactions. Inventory gradually increased throughout 2024, but declined in Q4 compared to Q3, and remained below pre-COVID norms. Additionally, the macroeconomic environment experienced steady growth and declining inflation levels, despite geopolitical uncertainty. Overall, the industry is poised for a strong start to 2025.
This Market Brief was originally published by Global Jet Capital on February 19, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleSOLJETS 2025 Private Jet Market Outlook and Projections see more
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped numerous luxury sectors, none more significantly than private aviation. As global travel patterns shifted dramatically, private jets became not just a symbol of wealth, but a crucial tool for safety, flexibility, and convenience. Now, as we approach 2025, understanding the trajectory of the private jet market is vital for industry stakeholders, from manufacturers and financial institutions to private aviation enthusiasts. Let’s take a look at what’s ahead in 2025.
Surge in Demand During the Pandemic
The pandemic marked a watershed moment for the private aviation industry. As travel restrictions and safety concerns around crowded commercial flights intensified, many affluent individuals turned to private jets. This shift was driven by a need for both security and flexibility in travel, as private jets offered the ability to avoid crowded airports and adhere to personal safety protocols.
According to Global Jet Capital, demand for private jets surged by over 20% during the height of the pandemic, with North America—accounting for 64% of global business jet deliveries—seeing the most significant growth. The North American market, in particular, experienced a dramatic increase in private flight hours, as well as a rise in the number of first-time buyers entering the market.
This surge in demand was not only reflected in the number of private jets in the sky but also in the steep rise in the values of both new and pre-owned aircraft. For example, some business jets saw an appreciation of 10-20% in value, a rarity in an industry that typically sees depreciation over time.
This report was originally published by SOLJETS on February 2, 2025.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleAero Asset’s Heli Market Trends 2024 Annual Report: Single-Engine Edition see more
Single-Engine Helicopter Market Shows Uncertainty: Sales Stable but Supply Surges 30% in 2024
TORONTO, Canada, January 28, 2025 – Aero Asset, a global helicopter sales and market intelligence firm, has launched its Heli Market Trends 2024 Annual Report: Single-Engine edition. This report delivers an authoritative analysis of the global preowned market for single-engine helicopters featuring Aero Asset’s proprietary market intelligence and expert insight.
“Retail sales of single-engine helicopters remained stable in 2024, while supply for sale reached its highest point in four years, Q4 last year,” said Valerie Pereira, Aero Asset’s Vice President of Market Research.
Aero Asset’s analysis of last year’s data shows that retail sales remained stable in 2024 versus 2023 year over year (YOY). The supply of single-engine helicopters for sale ended 30% higher YOY reaching a four-year peak Q4 2024. Absorption rate increased to 12 months of supply at current trade levels.
Regional Market Performance
In terms of transaction volume, both North America and Asia Pacific entered a bull market while sales in Europe slowed down. North American buyers were the most active worldwide, accounting for two-thirds of all single-engine helicopter transactions in 2024. APAC buyers were second most active while Europe dropped to fourth place in this regional transaction volume ranking.
Europe saw a 26% increase in single-engine helicopter supply for sale, culminating at the end of Q4 2024 to 35% of the global stock. Supply for sale in remaining regions: APAC (25%, +90%), North America (23%, +36%), Latin America (10%, -25%), rest of the world (7%, +22%).
Pricing & Liquidity
Aero Asset’s research shows that average transaction price increased 4% and average days on market increased 2% YOY. The most liquid preowned market in 2024 was Airbus AS350 B3/B3e/H125, followed by Bell 407/GX/P/I. The least liquid preowned market in 2024 was Airbus EC130B4/H130T2, with an absorption rate of 1.5 years.
Heli Market Trends 2024 Annual Report Available
To access Aero Asset’s Heli Market Trends 2024 Annual Report: Single-Engine Edition, visit: aeroasset.com/report. This year’s report includes a conversation with Christopher Lee, President of the Specialty Finance Group's Aviation Finance Division at 1st Source Bank.
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About Aero Asset Inc.
Aero Asset is an international helicopter trading and market intelligence firm, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. With a multilingual team and decades of experience marketing and selling aircraft across the globe, the company has grown into a leading helicopter sales and market intelligence firm offering helicopter market reports, fair market value analysis, remarketing services, and tip-to-tail transaction execution services.
Aero Asset is a member of the Vertical Aviation International, the Association of Air Medical Services, National Aircraft Finance Association, the European Helicopter Association, and the National Business Aviation Association.
For more information about the company, its inventory, or its full scope of services and industry reports, please visit https://aeroasset.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
No representation, guarantee or warranty is given as to the accuracy, completeness or likelihood of achievement or reasonableness of any statements made by or on behalf of Aero Asset. The information contained herein should not be construed as advice to purchase or sell aircraft. Neither Aero Asset nor its owners, directors, officers, employees, agents, independent contractors or other representatives shall be liable for any loss, expense or cost (including without limitation, any consequential or indirect loss) that you incur directly or indirectly as a result of or in connection with the use of data or statements contained herein or otherwise provided by Aero Asset.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articleGlobal Jet Capital releases Q3 2024 Business Aviation Market Brief. see more
Global Jet Capital releases Q3 2024 Business Aviation Market Brief.
The business jet market continued to stabilize in Q3 2024 after experiencing unprecedented utilization and demand in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Year-over-year, there was a decrease in flight operations, an increase in inventory levels, and a decline in OEM order intake. Despite this shift, the market continues to show strength and resilience. Driven by strong new deliveries, transactions leveled off following declines in 2023. OEMs reported strong backlogs. Flight operations stayed above pre-pandemic levels, and availability — particularly for newer, more desirable aircraft — remained low. Additionally, the macroeconomic environment experienced steady growth and declining inflation levels, despite ongoing headwinds. Overall, the industry is well-prepared to handle any potential market disruptions.
This Market Brief was originally published by Global Jet Capital on November 19, 2024.
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NAFA Administrator posted an articlePre-Owned Business Aircraft Market: 2025 Outlook see more
AvBuyer's Chris Kjelgaard asks industry experts what conditions they reckon will prevail in the market for pre-owned business aircraft in 2025.
Barring a major geopolitical event or environmental calamity, 2025 should prove to be a year of price stability and healthy trading levels for the younger examples of the world’s fleet of pre-owned business aircraft. Such is the view of four senior aircraft traders...
But the outlook isn’t anywhere near as rosy for business aircraft which have been in service for 20-plus years as the pre-owned market settles back to what insiders consider a “normal” state of buying and selling activity.
The aircraft brokers see the market in North America, and particularly the US, continuing to dominate pre-owned aircraft for sale activity. And not only will activity in the US domestic market continue at a high level, but internationally the US will be a net accepter of pre-owned business aircraft from around the globe.
The hungry US market is expected to particularly look to Europe for pre-owned jets and turboprops, partially because European Business Aviation is under an increasingly intense spotlight from the continent’s environmental organizations and governments.
While much of that scrutiny is uninformed and unfair, the pressure is anticipated to continue to result in used aircraft leaving the European fleet to make their way elsewhere – particularly to the US (for smaller and larger aircraft alike) and to the Middle East and Asia (for large business jets).
Current & Near-Future Used Aircraft Market Conditions
Tony Theis, Vice President of Sales, Acquisitions and Consulting for Central Business Jets, notes the market for used business aircraft has become much more stable in 2024, with the buying frenzy prevalent during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic calming.
“What Central Business Jets is seeing is that prices have really come back to a healthy stabilization,” he adds. “They have come down about 10% across the board from the highs of 2021 to 2023.”
In the globally dominant US market, growth has been very modest in 2024, because the US’s GDP has stagnated and could even end the year down. “The thing we do know that affects the [used] aircraft market is not the stock market, but the GDP of the economy,” Theis continues. “We see growth when we get over the 2% range” in GDP growth.
Because the US GDP is not growing at a strong clip, Theis reckons "we are not seeing 4-6% growth” in the aircraft market as a result. Additionally, he says “we’re seeing discounts because aircraft...were too highly priced” during the pandemic-led trading bubble.
That said, the market “is still up quite a bit from pre-COVID levels and we’re still seeing very healthy numbers” of inquiries for Central Business Jets’ listings of aircraft for sale, he says, revealing his company received about 30 inquiries for a Bombardier Challenger 300 it listed the previous week.
While most were from individuals or companies who were “just curious” about the aircraft, five or six were from those who were “really thinking of upgrading” to a younger or bigger aircraft.
Overall, he adds, the healthy state of the used-aircraft market is benefiting from the fact that the “OEM backlogs [of new aircraft on order] are stable and really healthy – the OEM market drives the used market”.
Business Aircraft OEMs Hold Fire
According to Johnny Foster, President & CEO of OGARAJETS, today business aircraft manufacturers are all boasting orderbook backlogs of 18-24 months at current production levels.
This article was originally published by AvBuyer on November 5, 2024.