Business Aviation
Used Jet Aircraft Market Stabilizes as Prices Shift to Sideways Trend
Used business jet prices rose 0.98% in Sept 2025, marking stabilization amid tight inventory and shifting market dynamics.
Used Jet Aircraft Market Shows Stabilization as Pricing Trends Shift from Decline to Sideways Movement
The used business jet aircraft market has experienced a notable transformation in September 2025, with asking prices shifting from a downward trajectory to a sideways trend, marking a potential inflection point in the post-pandemic aviation recovery. According to the latest Sandhills Global aviation market reports released in October 2025, used jet aircraft asking prices demonstrated a modest monthly increase of 0.98% in September, representing a significant departure from the declining trend observed in August when prices fell 1.42% month-over-month and 3.76% year-over-year. This market stabilization occurs amid a complex landscape of supply chain challenges, evolving buyer preferences, and shifting economic conditions that continue to reshape the global business aviation sector.
The significance of this shift extends beyond a simple change in price direction. It signals a possible stabilization after several years of volatility, as the market responds to both persistent inventory constraints and changing demand patterns. With industry stakeholders closely watching these developments, the sideways trend in used jet prices could mark the beginning of a new equilibrium in the business aviation sector.
Background and Market Foundation
The used business jet aircraft market serves as a critical barometer for economic health and reflects the evolving travel needs of high-net-worth individuals and corporations. Sandhills Global, a Nebraska-based information processing company, is a recognized authority in aviation market analysis, leveraging its extensive data collection across platforms such as Controller.com and other specialized aviation marketplaces. Their Sandhills Equipment Value Index (EVI) is widely referenced for tracking asset values and trends across aviation, construction, agriculture, and transportation sectors.
The roots of the current market dynamics can be traced to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused severe disruptions in aircraft values and inventory. Early in the pandemic, used aircraft inventory dropped to historic lows due to travel restrictions and economic uncertainty, sharply reducing both supply and demand. As the world began to recover, business aviation usage surged as travelers sought alternatives to commercial airlines, leading to persistent tight inventory and rising prices through 2022 and 2023.
Sandhills Global’s reporting relies on robust data from multiple platforms, offering month-over-month and year-over-year comparisons. Their aviation ecosystem includes Controller, Controller EMEA, Executive Controller, Charter Hub, Aviation Trader, Aircraft Cost Calculator, and AircraftEvaluator. This comprehensive approach allows for the identification of subtle market shifts that might be missed in less detailed analyses.
“The transition from declining to sideways price trends suggests that the market may be approaching a new equilibrium point, where supply and demand factors are becoming more balanced.”, Sandhills Global, October 2025
Current Market Data and Pricing Trends
The September 2025 Sandhills Global report presents a nuanced portrait of the market. Used jet aircraft asking prices, after a 1.42% decline in August, reversed course with a 0.98% monthly increase in September. Despite this improvement, year-over-year prices are still down 2.61%, indicating that the market, while stabilizing, remains below last year’s levels.
Inventory trends provide additional context. Used jet inventory increased by 4.26% month-over-month in September, but is still down 10.03% compared to a year prior. This pattern suggests that while more aircraft are appearing on the market, overall supply remains tight, helping to prevent further price drops but also capping potential gains.
Within the used jet market, performance varies by segment. Light jets saw the largest monthly inventory increase (9.06%) and the strongest price rise (1.53%). Conversely, super mid jets posted the steepest year-over-year inventory drop (19.19%) and the largest price decline (5.67%). Other aircraft types, such as piston-singles and turboprops, show their own distinct trends, piston-singles moved from upward to sideways trends, while turboprops continued to climb, with asking prices up 3.71% month-over-month and 4.6% year-over-year. The Robinson piston helicopter market saw an 8.13% monthly price surge despite shrinking inventory.
“These varied trends across aircraft categories suggest that market forces are affecting different segments distinctly, with factors such as operational costs, mission requirements, and buyer preferences creating divergent demand patterns.”, Sandhills Global, October 2025
Industry Analysis and Market Context
The stabilization in used jet pricing is part of a broader industry adjustment. The business aviation sector, after explosive growth in the immediate post-pandemic period, is now on a more sustainable trajectory. Usage remains well above pre-2020 levels, but the pace of growth has moderated. This normalization is reflected in the sideways pricing trend for used jets.
The International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) describes the current market as “more balanced and disciplined,” with normalized inventory and rationalized prices. According to Lou Seno, IADA’s executive director, “The 2025 market is both disciplined and resilient. Buyers and sellers are operating in a more balanced environment, but timing, asset readiness and proactive planning remain decisive factors.” This aligns with Sandhills Global’s findings and indicates a widespread industry consensus on market stabilization.
Flight activity data supports this narrative. Global business jet activity rose about 3% year-over-year in early 2025, led by the U.S. market. Although this is down from the dramatic surges of 2021 and 2022, demand is still robust. Inventory of pre-owned jets increased modestly (by about 1.3% from January to June 2025), but remains below pre-pandemic averages, supporting price stability. The average age of for-sale aircraft reached 22 years, with newer models selling faster and at stronger prices, highlighting a bifurcated market.
“Buyers and sellers are operating in a more balanced environment, but timing, asset readiness and proactive planning remain decisive factors.”, Lou Seno, IADA
Economic Factors and Regional Dynamics
Macroeconomic factors play a significant role in the aviation market’s stabilization. Central bank interest rate hikes, implemented to combat inflation, have raised aircraft financing costs from historical norms of 3–4% to 6–8% or higher. This dampens some buyer enthusiasm and encourages sellers to hold firm on prices to offset higher carrying costs.
Regional trends also matter. The United States leads global business aviation, accounting for over two-thirds of all outbound flights, with California and Texas as hotspots. Meanwhile, international markets are mixed, Europe is recovering but faces regulatory and economic headwinds, while Asia and the Middle East are seeing increased demand for pre-owned aircraft.
Economic inequality influences demand, as business aviation is concentrated among high-net-worth individuals and corporations. Their spending patterns are less sensitive to broader economic swings, providing some insulation for the market. However, shifts in confidence among this group can still have outsized effects.
Technology and Innovation Impact
Technological advancements are reshaping the value proposition of used aircraft. Owners increasingly invest in avionics upgrades, connectivity, and safety enhancements to maintain competitive positioning and value retention. Aircraft with modern systems command higher prices, while older, unmodified models face more pressure.
Sustainability is an emerging priority. Aircraft with superior fuel efficiency and lower emissions are increasingly sought after, and retrofitting for environmental compliance is becoming more common. This is driving a split in the market, with premium, efficient aircraft maintaining value while older, less efficient models may struggle.
Digital platforms are transforming transactions, offering buyers access to global inventory and greater transparency. Virtual tours, blockchain transactions, and AI-driven analytics are streamlining the process and improving market efficiency, potentially contributing to price stability by reducing information gaps and transaction costs.
Future Market Outlook and Implications
The sideways trend in used jet aircraft prices suggests the market may be entering a phase of stability after years of volatility. Projections for the remainder of 2025 indicate moderate growth and continued stable pricing, provided there are no major economic or geopolitical shocks. Normalizing inventory and pricing patterns could provide a more predictable environment for buyers and sellers.
Longer-term forecasts are optimistic. The global used aircraft market is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 7.6% through 2029, reflecting sustained demand for cost-effective aviation, extended lead times for new aircraft, and the appeal of upgraded used models. Demographic shifts, such as younger entrepreneurs entering the market and expanding demand in emerging economies, may further support growth and stability.
Regulatory and sustainability trends will continue to shape the market, favoring newer and more efficient aircraft. As supply chain issues resolve and new aircraft deliveries increase, the balance between new and used inventory will remain a key factor in pricing dynamics.
Conclusion
The stabilization of used jet aircraft asking prices in September 2025 marks a significant milestone in the post-pandemic recovery of business aviation. A modest 0.98% monthly price increase, following a decline in August, suggests the market is finding its footing after years of volatility. This occurs amid persistent inventory constraints, shifting buyer preferences, and ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty.
As the industry transitions to a more balanced and disciplined phase, market participants who understand these dynamics will be best positioned to capitalize on future opportunities. The sideways pricing trend may serve as a foundation for sustained growth, reflecting a new equilibrium in the evolving aviation landscape.
FAQ
Q: What caused the shift from declining to sideways trends in used jet aircraft prices?
A: The shift is attributed to stabilizing inventory levels, ongoing demand, and a more balanced market environment, as reported by Sandhills Global and industry experts.
Q: Are all segments of the used aircraft market experiencing the same trends?
A: No, different segments show varying trends. For example, light jets have seen strong inventory and price increases, while super mid jets have experienced declines.
Q: How do economic factors like interest rates impact the used aircraft market?
A: Rising interest rates increase the cost of aircraft financing, which can dampen buyer demand and influence pricing strategies among sellers.
Q: What role does technology play in the used aircraft market?
A: Technology upgrades, such as modern avionics and connectivity, enhance aircraft value and marketability, while digital platforms improve transaction efficiency.
Q: What is the outlook for the used jet aircraft market in the coming years?
A: Industry forecasts anticipate moderate growth and stable pricing, with long-term expansion driven by demographic shifts, technology adoption, and global demand.
Sources: Sandhills Global
Photo Credit: AI Generated
Business Aviation
HALO-Flight Orders Bell 407GXi to Expand IFR Fleet to Seven
South Texas nonprofit HALO-Flight ordered an additional Bell 407GXi at AMTC 2026, growing its IFR-capable fleet to seven aircraft.
South Texas air medical provider HALO-Flight has placed a purchase order for an additional Bell 407GXi Helicopters, expanding its instrument flight rules (IFR) capable fleet to seven aircraft. The agreement was announced on October 27, 2026, at the Air Medical Transport Conference (AMTC) in Fort Worth, Texas.
The acquisition supports the nonprofit organization’s emergency scene response and interfacility transport missions across a 24,000-square-mile service area. In a press release issued by Bell Textron Inc., the manufacturer noted the aircraft will soon join HALO-Flight’s operations as the operator enters its 40th year of service.
Fleet expansion and operational capabilities
“HALO-Flight’s work across North America calls for reliable, high-performing aircraft,” said Lane Evans, Managing Director, North America for Bell. “The Bell 407GXi provides the power and safety that air medical crews count on every day.”
Travis Patterson, CEO of HALO-Flight, highlighted the decades-long relationship with the manufacturer as the operator scales to meet regional needs.
The Bell 407GXi is powered by a Rolls-Royce 250-C47E/4 dual-channel FADEC turbine engine. It delivers a maximum cruise speed of 133 knots and a range of 337 nautical miles. Designed for Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS), the aircraft is equipped with the Garmin G1000H NXi integrated flight deck. This system enables IFR operations, providing advanced navigation and enhanced situational awareness in varied weather conditions.
Modernization of South Texas air medical infrastructure
Established in 1987, HALO-Flight serves 23 counties and over one million residents from bases in Corpus Christi, Alice, and Beeville, Texas. The operator provides life-saving transport regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.
The organization has steadily modernized its infrastructure and fleet over the past two years. In October 2025, Bell delivered what was then described as the fifth and final Bell 407GXi of an initial fleet renewal program. The latest order brings the total to seven, indicating continued growth beyond the original renewal scope.
In March 2026, HALO-Flight became the first HEMS operator in the United States to achieve full fleet-wide Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) coverage. The operator outfitted its operational Bell 407GXi helicopters with the GPMS International Foresight MX system to enhance maintenance predictability and safety.
The organization also broke ground on a new headquarters and dispatch center in Corpus Christi in June 2026. The facility is expected to be completed by late 2026 and is designed to modernize aircraft tracking and control across the provider’s extensive service area.
Photo Credit: Bell Textron Inc.
Business Aviation
Life Flight Network Orders Five Airbus H135 Helicopters
Life Flight Network expands its H135 order to eight total aircraft, supporting air medical operations across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
Life Flight Network has expanded its rotary-wing fleet modernization program with an order for five Airbus H135 helicopters, increasing its total commitment for the twin-engine type to eight aircraft. The October 26, 2026, agreement accelerates the not-for-profit air medical provider’s capacity upgrades across the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain West.
Announced by Airbus Helicopters from Fort Worth, Texas, the acquisition builds upon an initial 2025 order for three H135s. The new airframes will support critical care transport operations in regions characterized by challenging terrain and vast rural distances, according to the manufacturer’s press release.
Expanding aeromedical capabilities in the Pacific Northwest
Life Flight Network operates across a diverse geographic footprint that includes the Pacific Northwest, the Intermountain West, and Hawaii. The organization provides 24/7 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) level care and transport, coordinating with hospitals, police, fire departments, and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) agencies.
The addition of five H135s is designed to support clinical teams operating in these demanding environments. Life Flight Network Chief Executive Officer Ben Clayton emphasized the direct impact of the acquisition on patient care, stating that every investment in the fleet is an investment in the communities the organization serves.
Clayton elaborated on the operational requirements driving the purchase:
“Across the Pacific Northwest, Intermountain West, and Hawai’i, our crews serve communities separated by mountain ranges, oceans, and vast rural distances. The H135’s advanced safety features and air medical capabilities are well suited to the demands of serving this diverse region. We’re pleased to continue our partnership with Airbus as we invest in the future of our fleet and strengthen access to critical care for the communities we serve.”
The Airbus H135 in emergency medical services
The Airbus H135 has established a significant presence in the global air ambulance market. The twin-engine rotorcraft features a spacious, climate-controlled cabin designed specifically to accommodate medical equipment and clinical personnel during in-flight patient care.
Safety and operational features of the H135 include a high-set main rotor and Airbus’s signature Fenestron shrouded tail rotor. These design elements are particularly relevant for off-airport landings and scene responses where ground personnel, emergency vehicles, and obstacles may be in close proximity to the aircraft.
Bart Reijnen, Head of the North America region at Airbus Helicopters, highlighted the aircraft’s suitability for the operator’s mission profile.
“The H135 continues to set the standard for air medical services, combining exceptional reliability, advanced safety technologies, and quiet flight performance so that dedicated clinical teams can carry out their lifesaving work safely and efficiently.”
Reijnen added that Airbus is honored by the continued trust Life Flight Network has placed in the manufacturer’s rotorcraft to serve millions of residents across the region.
Fleet modernization and mixed-manufacturer strategy
Life Flight Network is the largest not-for-profit air medical program in the United States. The organization is owned by a consortium of health systems that includes Legacy Health, Oregon Health and Science University, Providence Health and Services, and Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center.
To support this extensive network, the operator maintains a mixed fleet of approximately 60 rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft. The Airbus H135 order is part of a broader, multi-manufacturer fleet modernization strategy.
While expanding its Airbus portfolio, Life Flight Network also operates the largest Bell Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) fleet in the country. The organization currently fields 35 Bell aircraft, including the Bell 429 and the Bell 407GXi. On May 14, 2026, the operator announced an order for three additional Bell 407GXi helicopters.
The rotary-wing investments run parallel to infrastructure and fixed-wing optimizations. In October 2024, Life Flight Network announced the relocation of its fixed-wing aeromedical operations from Port Angeles to Renton, Washington. The move was executed to optimize operational efficiencies and decrease response times for long-distance patient transfers.
Delivery dates for the five newly ordered Airbus H135 helicopters have not been disclosed.
Photo Credit: Airbus
Business Aviation
SyberJet SJ36 Secures 50 Letters of Intent at NBAA 2026
SyberJet Aircraft received 50+ LOIs for its SJ36 light jet after debuting a full-scale mockup at Henderson Executive Airport.
SyberJet Aircraft has secured non-binding letters of intent for more than 50 of its in-development SJ36 light jets following the unveiling of a full-scale mockup at Henderson Executive Airport (HND) in Las Vegas. The manufacturer is positioning the new aircraft to disrupt the business aviation market by promising midsize-jet performance metrics alongside light-jet operating economics.
Announced in an October 21, 2026, press release, the commitments follow a dedicated “SyberJet World” event held on October 19 ahead of the 2026 NBAA Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE). The event marked the first public display of the SJ36 cabin and airframe concept, allowing prospective buyers to evaluate the physical dimensions and interior technologies of the proposed aircraft.
Performance targets and cabin technology
The SJ36 is designed to push the boundaries of the traditional light jet category. SyberJet projects a maximum speed of Mach 0.88 and a maximum range of 3,000 nautical miles. If certified at these specifications, the aircraft would be capable of flying nonstop from Los Angeles to Hawaii or from Teterboro to Los Angeles. The design includes a maximum ceiling of 49,000 feet and is engineered to maintain sea-level cabin pressure up to 41,000 feet.
The cabin will accommodate up to eight passengers and incorporates several novel technologies for the light jet segment. According to reporting by Aviation International News, the SJ36 will feature a zero-emission auxiliary power unit (APU) and a speakerless cabin audio system developed by Bongiovi Aviation. The audio system utilizes transducers mounted on the backside of interior panels to deliver sound throughout the cabin without traditional speaker grilles.
Powering the SJ36 will be two Williams International FJ44-4A engines, a selection SyberJet originally announced on October 15, 2025. The flight deck will be equipped with the manufacturer’s proprietary SyberVision avionics suite.
SyberJet World was the first time our customers could walk up to the SJ36 and see what they have committed to, and the response was incredible.
Market positioning and economic claims
SyberJet claims the SJ36 will reduce charter rates by up to 50 percent compared to midsize jets while offering comparable range and speed. The company also projects that the aircraft will save operators up to two hours each way on coast-to-coast trips compared with existing light jets on the market.
SyberJet Chief Executive Officer Trevor Milton emphasized the dual appeal of the aircraft’s performance and operating costs in the company’s October 21 statement.
More than 50 commitments tells us the market has been waiting for innovation. Light jet buyers have always had to choose between speed, range and cost. The SJ36 lets them have all three. We are only on day one, imagine where we will be in a few months with orders.
The 50 commitments announced by the company are letters of intent (LOIs). These are non-binding indications of interest and do not represent firm purchase agreements or guaranteed deliveries. All performance figures for the SJ36 remain projected design targets based on preliminary data and have not yet been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Reviving the SJ30 legacy
The SJ36 program builds upon the aerodynamic foundation of the Sino Swearingen SJ30, a light jet originally designed in the 1980s and 1990s. While the SJ30-2 eventually earned FAA certification, the program struggled with production and capitalization. Only nine airframes were built and four were delivered to customers, with the final delivery occurring in 2006.
SyberJet was formed in 2011 when Metalcraft Technologies acquired the program’s assets. The company is currently headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, with operations in San Antonio, Texas, and Cedar City, Utah. Milton acquired the program alongside an investment group in 2024, injecting new capital to modernize the aircraft and restart production.
To demonstrate the platform’s underlying capabilities, SyberJet flew an existing SJ30-2 on August 21, 2026, setting an unofficial East-to-West transcontinental speed record for its class. The aircraft flew from Jacksonville, Florida, to San Diego, California, in approximately 4 hours and 7 minutes.
Alongside the SJ36, SyberJet has also opened reservations for the SJ34. The SJ34 is a direct, upgraded version of the FAA-certified SJ30-2, featuring more powerful Williams FJ44-3 or FJ44-4 turbofans, a redesigned interior, and the SyberVision avionics suite.
Certification and delivery timeline
SyberJet has established a staggered timeline for bringing its two aircraft to market. Deliveries for the upgraded SJ34 model are projected to begin in 2029. However, the certification timeline and entry-into-service target for the clean-sheet SJ36 have not yet been announced by the manufacturer.
AirPro News analysis
Securing 50 letters of intent is a strong marketing signal for SyberJet, but the true test for the revived manufacturer will be converting these non-binding commitments into firm, deposit-backed orders. The business aviation market has a long memory regarding the original Sino Swearingen SJ30 program, which promised exceptional performance but ultimately failed to achieve serial production. Milton and his investment group must prove they have the industrial capacity and capital runway to avoid a similar fate.
The performance targets for the SJ36 are highly ambitious. Achieving Mach 0.88 and a 3,000-nautical-mile range in a light jet footprint would indeed pressure midsize operators, but validating those figures through a rigorous FAA certification program will be expensive and time-consuming. Until SyberJet publishes a firm certification schedule for the SJ36, the industry will likely view the aircraft as a compelling concept rather than an immediate market disruptor.
Photo Credit: SyberJet Aircraft
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