Current Aircraft Market Trends
Where prices are headed across piston, turboprop, and light jet segments.
The used aircraft market has cooled from the 2021–2023 frenzy, but inventory remains tight by historical standards and quality airplanes still trade quickly. Here is how the segments look right now and what it means for buyers and sellers.
Piston singles
Supply has improved and days-on-market have lengthened, especially for aircraft with dated avionics or run-out engines. Clean, low-time airframes with modern glass and fresh paint and interior still command premium pricing and often sell before they are publicly listed.
Light twins
The softest segment. Operating costs and insurance requirements keep the buyer pool small. Buyers with the training and budget can find genuine value here, but resale takes patience.
Turboprops
Still the strongest part of the market. Single-engine turboprops in particular remain supply-constrained, with well-maintained examples trading near ask. Long lead times on new deliveries continue to push demand into the used market.
Light jets
Pricing has normalized from the peak but has not collapsed. Buyers are far more sensitive to maintenance program status, engine program enrollment, and upcoming inspection events than they were two years ago.
What is driving prices
- Maintenance and parts costs have risen sharply, and that is priced into every deal.
- Insurance underwriting remains disciplined, which limits some buyer pools.
- Avionics upgrades are expensive and slow, so already-upgraded aircraft carry a real premium.
- Financing costs matter again, which has taken some speculative buyers out of the market.
Advice for buyers
Be ready to move on the right airplane: financing pre-approved, inspection shop lined up, escrow ready. Good aircraft are still competitive. Overpriced average aircraft are not — do not let a hot headline push you into a bad deal.
Advice for sellers
The market rewards preparation. Fresh annual, complete logbooks, professional photography, and honest disclosure will do more for your net proceeds than holding out for last year's peak price.
Want current comparable sales for your specific make and model? Call and we will pull the data together.
Questions? Talk to Joe directly.
Honest guidance from an active pilot and Aircraft Broker.
