Pre-Owned, Twin-Engine Heli Sales Dip In H1 2023, Aero Asset Says

Bell 429

A Canadian Coast Guard Bell 429 Helicopter.

Credit: Sabena Jane Blackbird / Alamy Stock Photo

During the first half (H1) of 2023, retail transactions of pre-owned, twin-engine helicopters totaled 76, down 15% compared to the same period a year ago, while inventories were up 18%, according to Aero Asset’s 2023 half-year helicopter trends report. 

Retail sales volumes declined in North America and Europe for the H1 of 2023 but increased in other regions. North America and Europe, however, accounted for 75% of the total transactions during the first six months of the year. 

Average prices for light twin helicopters remained strong during the period, except for the Bell 429 and EC/H145 markets, Aero Asset says. In the medium-size segment, Sikorsky S76C+/C++ average prices were up year-over-year, while in the heavy segment, Sikorsky S92A pricing was stable, the report says.

The best performing twin helicopter during the first six months of 2023 was the Leonardo A109E Power, followed by the Bell 429 and the Sikorsky S92A. 

Molly McMillin

Molly McMillin, a 25-year aviation journalist, is managing editor of business aviation for the Aviation Week Network and editor-in-chief of The Weekly of Business Aviation, an Aviation Week market intelligence report.