ACJ: Strong Large-aircraft Market Growth Ahead in Asia

Business aviation industry professionals across Asia anticipate a growing demand for large business jets through 2030, with 30% believing that the increase will be dramatic, according to new research commissioned by Airbus Corporate Jets.

Researcher Pureprofile surveyed 60 business aviation financiers and brokers in Asia who work for companies that either own or use business aircraft. The survey revealed growing confidence in the Asian business aviation market, Airbus Corporate Jets said, noting that 85% of respondents expect purchases of large business jets to increase through the remainder of the decade.

In addition, 62% of the respondents estimated that new business jet spending between 2025 and 2034 will be concentrated on large and long-range aircraft, results that Airbus Corporate Jets said point to a significant shift. 

As further evidence of that shift, more than half of the respondents (56%) reported that at least a quarter of the aircraft they are involved in either selling or financing are upgrades into larger aircraft; they expect the 56% figure to climb to 89% by 2030.

As for reasons behind purchase decisions, 45% of respondents said that buyers place equal importance on range and larger cabin space, and 28% pointed to cabin comfort, passenger capacity, and aircraft customization. Additionally, 27% called range and mission flexibility a primary purchase driver.

Other factors involve charter revenue opportunities and residual value, along with operating costs. About two-thirds (67%) said financing for large business jets will become easier compared with smaller aircraft in coming years, and 75% believe fleet modernization will accelerate.

“The business aviation market in Asia continues to demonstrate remarkable confidence, and the actual increase of ACJs in service in Asia is a testimony of this growth,” said Airbus Corporate Jets president Chadi Saade. “Buyers are increasingly looking for aircraft that deliver long-range capability, greater flexibility, and a premium onboard experience, while also offering strong long-term economic performance.”