Used Bizjet Market Soars: Deals Up 20% Amid Tight Inventory, IADA Says

Healthy business aircraft utilization, 100% bonus depreciation, acceptable financing conditions, long delivery lead times for new aircraft and the appeal of private travel are keeping buyers of used aircraft active, according to a survey and forecast of the market by the International Aircraft Dealers Association.

During the second quarter of 2026, demand held up well and inventory is tight. In fact, respondents—aircraft dealers, brokers, financiers, lease and insurance providers and others in the industry surveyed by the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA)—describe the current environment as the leanest they have seen outside of the pandemic—especially inventory of clean, late-model business jets.

At the same time, buyers, sellers and operators continue to navigate through geopolitical uncertainties, changing trade policies, higher operating and fuel costs, maintenance limitations and lingering supply chain constraints.

Despite the issues, long - and ultra-long-range business jet asking prices increased during the quarter and deal volume is up more than 20% compared with a year ago, IADA notes.

During the second quarter of 2026, IADA dealers signed 334 acquisition agreements, up from 270 in the same period a year ago. They lowered the price in 67 cases during the quarter, compared with 76 a year ago, and closed 746 deals, compared with 616.

Looking ahead over the next six months to one year, the mood is optimistic, says Lou Seno, IADA executive director.

The current U.S. tariff environment remains generally favorable for used business aircraft, “while potential restrictions affecting new aircraft imports could further strengthen demand for available pre-owned aircraft,” the report says.

While demand remains strong, it is also increasingly selective, Seno says. “High-quality aircraft with the right pedigree, maintenance status and equipment remain in short supply, making preparation, timing and experienced representation more important than ever for both buyers and sellers,” Seno says.

For the rest of 2026, “Expect a busy fourth-quarter tax push, more transactions and a drift toward more balanced conditions as OEM deliveries pick up—with more meaningful softening likely arriving in early 2027,” Seno says.