Used Jet Aircraft Prices Stabilize After Prior Decline, Insights Emerged

Used Jet Aircraft Prices Stabilize After Prior Decline

In September, reports from Sandhills Global shed light on the shifting landscape of used jet aircraft prices, signaling a change from downward trends observed in the previous months. The analysis, which encompasses data from various platforms including Controller.com, reveals that after experiencing a downturn in August with a 1.42% drop month-over-month (M/M) and a 3.76% decline year-over-year (YOY), the market has entered a sideways trend in September. This month, asking prices have slightly increased by 0.98%, while still reflecting a 2.61% decrease compared to the same period last year.

Detailed Market Insights

U.S. and Canada Used Piston-Single Aircraft

In the category of used piston-single aircraft, inventory levels have seen a modest decrease of 0.68% M/M and 14.81% YOY in September. This trend indicates a stabilization within the market despite the fluctuating values. The asking prices for these aircraft remain relatively unchanged, showcasing a slight decrease of 0.55% M/M but an increase of 0.7% YOY. This indicates a cautious optimism in this sector as potential buyers and sellers navigate the current economic landscape.

Global Used Turboprops

The used turboprop segment painted a different picture, with inventory levels rising by 0.62% M/M but significantly down 18.9% YOY. Interestingly, asking prices have surged this month by 3.71% M/M and 4.6% YOY, indicating a robust upward trend that contrasts with the overall performance of other aircraft categories.

Global Used Robinson Piston Helicopters

The market for global used Robinson piston helicopters continues its downward trajectory, with a notable 2.6% M/M decrease in inventory and a substantial 45.26% drop YOY. However, a remarkable shift was noted in asking prices, which jumped by 8.13% M/M and 1.8% YOY, suggesting that demand may be revitalizing in this niche sector.

Used Jets Market Analysis

Turning back to the used jets, inventory levels rose by 4.26% M/M while showing a decrease of 10.03% YOY in September. This mixed data highlights the nuanced dynamics of the market. The used light jet category experienced the most significant M/M increase at 9.06%, while the used super mid-jet category saw the largest YOY decline at 19.19%. As for pricing, used jets overall reflected a 0.98% increase M/M despite the 2.61% YOY decline, showcasing a complex interplay of demand and pricing pressures.

The Role of Sandhills Equipment Value Index

The Sandhills Equipment Value Index (EVI) serves as a fundamental benchmark for understanding these trends. Buyers and sellers leverage this index to make informed decisions regarding asset acquisition and liquidation. The EVI encompasses a comprehensive array of data, encompassing auction and retail market values, as well as model-year equipment actively in use.

The reports emphasize the importance of tracking these shifts in the aviation market, especially for stakeholders aiming to maximize their investment returns amidst changing market conditions. The Sandhills Global EVI not only provides insight into current market standings but also helps predict future trends, making it an essential tool for anyone involved in aircraft transactions.

Future Outlook

As we look towards the remainder of 2025 and beyond, the dynamics within the aviation sector will continue to evolve. Stakeholders will need to stay informed about these trends, balancing inventory levels with market prices. For those engaged in aircraft trading or investment, keeping an eye on the Sandhills reports will be crucial for navigating this complex market landscape.

In conclusion, the pivot from a declining trend to a more stable outlook indicates a slight recovery for the used jet aircraft market. However, continuous monitoring and adaptation will be key for all participants in the aviation industry as they approach their future transactions and business strategies.