BusinessJets

Industry forecast

Private Aviation
Market Forecast - 2026

Published:

May 15, 2026

Our 2026 forecast projects continued growth and resilience across the business aviation sector. Strong demand, limited inventory and evolving buyer priorities will shape the market over the next 12-24 months.

While challenges such as macroeconomic volatility and supply chain constrains, long-term fundamentals for private aviation are expected to stay positive.

Industry Macro View

Market Overview

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global business jet fleet

21,572

+4.5%
vs
2025
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annual transactions (2025)

3,118

+7.5%
vs
2024
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active market inventory

4.2%

of fleet (historycally low)
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used market price index

+6.3%

YoY increase

The business aviation market enters the 2026–2028 forecast period with continued demand for private aircraft, a growing global fleet and relatively limited pre-owned inventory. New aircraft deliveries are expected to gradually increase supply, while demand for well-maintained used aircraft should remain supported by buyers seeking shorter delivery timelines and proven aircraft platforms.

Market conditions will continue to vary by aircraft category. Smaller jets are expected to offer buyers greater choice as inventory expands, while larger and ultra-long-range aircraft may remain comparatively constrained. Financing costs, aircraft availability, operating economics and global economic conditions will remain important factors influencing purchasing decisions.

2026-2028 outlook

Demand Forecast by Segment

segment

demand strength

new deliveries outlook

pre-owned market impact

key takeway

Light Jets
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Moderate
Slight increase
(350 - 400 units annually)
Stable prices, more options available

Demand for light jets is expected to remain steady through 2028, supported by their relatively accessible acquisition costs and practical operating economics.

Midsize Jets
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Moderate
Steady
(350 - 400 units annually)
Stable prices, more options available

Midsize jets should maintain consistent demand as buyers seek a balance between cabin comfort, range and operating costs.

Super Midsize Jets
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Moderate
Moderate increase
(350 - 400 units annually)
Stable prices, more options available

Super midsize jets are positioned for continued demand from buyers requiring transcontinental range and spacious cabins.

Heavy Jets
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Moderate
Steady
(350 - 400 units annually)
Stable prices, more options available

Heavy jets are expected to maintain solid demand from corporate and private operators requiring greater range, cabin space and mission flexibility.

Ultra Long Range Jets
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Moderate
Limited
(350 - 400 units annually)
Stable prices, more options available

Ultra-long-range aircraft are expected to remain one of the most closely watched segments through 2028.

*Forecasted deliveries are estimates based on OEM guidance and industry analysis.

2026-2028

New Deliveries Pipeline

oem

key models

2026e

2027e

2028e

Impact on pre-owned market

Gulfstream
G400, G800
65

75

75

Additional G400 and G800 deliveries could gradually increase availability in the large-cabin and ultra-long-range segments. Over time, newer aircraft entering service may encourage some owners to replace existing aircraft, potentially adding selected pre-owned examples to the market.

Bombardier
Global 7500
75

75

75

Continued Global 7500 deliveries may gradually expand the installed fleet while creating additional opportunities for buyers as existing owners evaluate replacement cycles. Demand for well-maintained pre-owned examples should remain supported by the aircraft's long-range capability and large-cabin configuration.

External Catalysts

Macro Factors Shaping the Market

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Interest Rates & Financing Costs

Interest rates directly influence aircraft financing costs and can affect the timing of acquisitions. Lower borrowing costs may encourage buyers to move forward with purchases, while elevated rates can increase the appeal of cash acquisitions, charter or other ownership alternatives.
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Business Travel Recovery

Continued corporate travel activity can support demand for private aviation, particularly among businesses that value schedule flexibility and direct access to multiple destinations. Changes in corporate travel patterns will remain an important indicator of future aircraft demand.
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Fleet Age & Replacement Cycles

An aging global aircraft fleet creates ongoing replacement demand as owners evaluate whether to upgrade, refurbish or replace existing aircraft. Replacement cycles can increase both new-aircraft demand and the supply of pre-owned aircraft entering the marke
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SAF Adoption & Regulation

Sustainable Aviation Fuel adoption, emissions policies and evolving regulatory requirements will increasingly influence aircraft operating decisions. Fuel availability, infrastructure and cost will determine how quickly SAF becomes a practical component of business aviation operations.
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Geopolitical Demand Shifts

Changes in global trade, regional economic activity and geopolitical conditions can shift demand for private aviation between markets. International travel patterns, cross-border investment and regional business activity may influence aircraft utilization and transaction demand.

Actionable Insights

Current Opportunities for Buyers & Sellers

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Opportunities for Buyers

Balanced inventory and a growing OEM pipeline create opportunities for strategic buyers in 2026.

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Midsize and super midsize aircraft can offer an attractive balance of value, capability and market liquidity.
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Select five- to eight-year-old aircraft may present attractive pricing opportunities when condition and maintenance history are strong.
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Monitoring OEM delivery timelines can provide useful context when negotiating for comparable pre-owned aircraft.
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Expanding global inventory can give buyers access to a wider range of aircraft in selected categories.
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Opportunities for Sellers

Market conditions remain favorable for well-maintained, in-demand aircraft.

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Midsize, super midsize and ultra-long-range jets continue to attract strong buyer interest.
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Limited inventory in selected categories can support stronger pricing for competitively positioned aircraft.
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Owners considering a sale should evaluate current market conditions, aircraft condition and comparable inventory before choosing a timing strategy.
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Complete maintenance records, recent upgrades and strong aircraft presentation can improve buyer confidence and support value.
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Plan With Confidence. Decide With Insight.

Market trends can influence aircraft values, acquisition timing and ownership strategy. Our aviation advisors can help you interpret current conditions and evaluate how the market may affect your next move.

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real time market data

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independent, unbiased advice

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global aviation experts

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Confidential. No obligation.