Preowned Jet Market Stabilizes into Fourth Quarter

The preowned business aircraft market is entering the fourth quarter in healthier condition than during the post-pandemic surge, according to the latest market forecast from the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA). 

IADA credits two policy shifts with shaping demand in the U.S. market. First, the reinstated 100% bonus depreciation—now permanent—for qualifying new or preowned aircraft placed in service on or after Jan. 20, 2025. According to IADA, this has “pulled forward demand, sharpened year-end closing urgency, and improved net affordability for U.S. buyers.” Second, a July provisional deal between the U.S. and EU preserved tariff-free trade in aircraft, engines, and parts, reducing a major uncertainty for cross-border transactions.

“Momentum is firming after a cyclical cool-down from the 2021 to 2023 peak,” the report says, noting that buyers are once again prioritizing nonstop intercontinental capability. Inventory levels have normalized, pricing is more rational, and demand is supported by resilient corporate travel in North America, increasing wealth in the Middle East, and a notable rebound in large-cabin activity.

Jetcraft’s parallel 2025 forecast projects more than 11,200 preowned business aircraft sales worth approximately $73.9 billion over five years. Demand for long-range jets as corporate flight departments focus on maximizing productive time and international reach is driving this demand, according to IADA.

Regional conditions remain mixed but generally supportive. In North America, IADA vice chair John Odegard of 5x5 Trading said, “With 100% expensing back, year-end is shaping up to be busy, especially in super-midsize and large-cabin jets. Sellers with turnkey, market-ready aircraft stand to benefit the most.

In Europe, tariff stability is helping to restore buyer confidence. However, IADA member Hans Doll of Atlas Air Service cautioned, “What really drives quick sales is having maintenance-ready aircraft that have passed inspection and are equipped with current avionics stacks.”

Tariff clarity has also aided the UK market. “We see a consistent supply and demand balance that makes the transaction environment much more conducive to the crazy Covid period,” said Steve Varsano of The Jet Business in London.

In South America, stability has fueled larger-cabin jet acquisitions, though new U.S. tariffs on Brazilian-built aircraft create export headwinds for Embraer models. In the Middle East, Allan Stanton of Stanton & Partners Aviation, said hubs “are reinforcing their role as natural global centers for commerce and connectivity.” Separate IADA analysis notes that Dubai and Doha remain strong.

Sustainability pressures are adding another dimension to market activity. IADA’s forecast cited global mandates for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and corporate reporting requirements as factors influencing retrofit schedules and upgrade decisions. “Buyers are starting to ask whether the aircraft they acquire can practically uplift SAF where they fly and how that interacts with their corporate sustainability reporting,” the report observes.

Supply-chain and MRO constraints persist but are improving. Preowned aircraft that are “ready now” with up-to-date connectivity, fresh inspections, and completed major maintenance events continue to command premiums. Financing also plays a significant role, with many buyers opting for leases or structured financing as interest rates stabilize.

Looking ahead to the next 12 months, IADA forecasts steady to firm transaction volumes, with large-cabin and super-midsize jets expected to lead demand. Light jets and high-time turboprops could face softer pricing where major maintenance is due. Global policy risk remains, but with normalized pricing, stable tariffs, and decisive U.S. tax incentives, IADA anticipates a busy close this year and a solid start to 2026.