IADA sees strong demand and constrained inventory shaping the global preowned aircraft market

The International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) has released its 2026-2027 Current Market Portrait & Forecast, offering an in-depth analysis of the global preowned business aviation market as of September 2026 and providing projections through September 2027. According to the report, the market remains fundamentally strong, driven by sustained buyer demand, historically limited inventories of quality aircraft, and extended delivery backlogs for new-production business jets. During the first half of 2026, IADA-Accredited Dealers completed 746 business aircraft transactions, representing a 21% year-over-year increase compared with the same period in 2025.

Supply constraints continue to influence market dynamics, particularly in the midsize, super-midsize, and large-cabin segments, where younger, well-equipped aircraft remain in short supply. Aircraft with proven ownership histories, up-to-date maintenance records, engine program coverage, advanced avionics, and enhanced connectivity capabilities continue to attract strong buyer interest and, in many cases, command premium valuations.

The forecast highlights several key factors expected to sustain market demand, including the continued benefit of 100% bonus depreciation in the United States, strong business aviation utilization rates, accessible financing conditions, and extended delivery lead times from aircraft manufacturers. However, market participants continue to navigate a complex operating environment shaped by geopolitical uncertainty, evolving trade policies, rising operating and fuel costs, maintenance, repair and overhaul capacity constraints, and ongoing supply chain challenges.

North America remains the dominant force in the global preowned business aircraft market. According to the report, the current U.S. tariff framework remains largely favorable for qualifying preowned business aircraft transactions. Potential restrictions affecting new aircraft imports could further boost demand for available preowned inventory, reinforcing already strong market fundamentals.

Beyond North America, the report evaluates market dynamics across Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, Asia, South America, and Africa. Regional conditions continue to vary, influenced by evolving trade relationships, sustainable aviation fuel regulations, aircraft availability, financing environments, and differing levels of economic growth and business aviation activity.

Rising aviation fuel costs, coupled with the premium associated with sustainable aviation fuel, are playing an increasingly significant role in aircraft acquisition, ownership and operating decisions. As operators place greater emphasis on long-term cost management and sustainability objectives, fuel considerations continue to influence fleet planning strategies.

The forecast also highlights broader macroeconomic concerns, including the potential long-term impact of the United States' historically elevated government debt levels. While these factors warrant close monitoring, the report notes that they have not yet produced any material effect on demand within the preowned business aircraft market.

Lou Seno, Executive Director of IADA commented: “The preowned business aircraft market remains strong, but it is also increasingly selective. 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.”

The Current Market Portrait & Forecast is based on the collective transaction experience and market intelligence of IADA-Accredited Dealers and other IADA members worldwide. The analysis is further supported by data and insights from leading industry organizations and market specialists, including the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), Jetcraft, and Global Jet Capital.

Providing a comprehensive view of market conditions and emerging trends, the report serves as a valuable resource for aircraft owners, operators, buyers, sellers, financiers, and aviation professionals seeking to navigate the evolving preowned business aircraft landscape.

The full report is available to the public through IADA's AircraftExchange market intelligence platform at AircraftExchange Market Report.