The number of used business jets on the market continues to decline but older aircraft remain a tough sell, according to a report from JetNet released this week. The market analysis company said its figures show the total number of business jets available dropped from 11.8 percent of the fleet to 11.2 percent in the first six months of 2015. It’s the lowest percentage of used jets on the market since the recession began in 2008 but there were still more than 2,200 aircraft up for sale. The number of used aircraft on the market has a direct bearing on the new-aircraft market and the glut of used planes from 2009 to 2014 was a big factor in the decline of new aircraft sales. With sales increasing, so are prices, but not for all used business jets. Older aircraft are staying on the market longer, the report said.
The first half of 2015 also marked a shift in the turboprop market. That sector was strong through the recession but that appears to be over. Sales of used turboprops dropped by 10.8 percent and the average asking price was 16.9 percent lower. Turbine helicopter sales also dropped by 12.2 percent while piston helicopters surged 14.4 percent in sales. Overall, almost 4,000 used jets, turboprops and helicopters sold in the first six months of the year.
