selling an aircraft

NAFA member Kyle O'Donnell, Aviation Sales Executive at Elevex Capital, shares his latest article about why older business aircraft can be good assets despite banks’ age restrictions on financing them.

For owners and for the professionals who sell to them, the operating rule is simple: if the decline was really about the calendar, the problem was never the aircraft. It was the wrong lender.

The average business jet in the U.S. fleet is roughly 18 years old — JETNET and Airbus Corporate Jets have both put the figure in that band. Sit with that number for a second, because it is the single most consequential fact in business aviation finance, and it's poised to become more consequential.

Almost all lenders prefer newer aircraft. Most bank aviation programs cap airframe age at 15 years at loan maturity. Plenty prefer 10 at funding. That leaves a huge gap in the market: Secured Research analysis of the U.S. registry puts more than 60% of active business jets — call it 9,000-plus tails — outside the standard bank credit box on age alone. Before anyone pulls credit, before anyone reads a logbook.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Elevex Capital on September 28, 2026. 

NAFA member Adam Hahn, CEO and Founder of Arcadia Jets, shares his article on why to use a private jet broker.

The Difference Between Shopping and Buying

Most aircraft buyers begin their search online. Within minutes, they can compare performance specifications, cabin dimensions, range capabilities, and asking prices across multiple aircraft models. While access to information has never been greater, information alone rarely leads to a successful acquisition. The challenge is not finding aircraft. The challenge is determining which opportunities deserve serious consideration.

A private jet broker helps buyers move beyond listings and marketing materials. Rather than focusing exclusively on what an aircraft can do, a broker evaluates whether it aligns with the buyer’s mission, budget, ownership objectives, and long-term plans. This perspective helps buyers avoid costly mistakes while creating a more efficient acquisition process. At Arcadia Jets, we often remind clients that the right aircraft is not necessarily the most expensive or most capable option. It is the aircraft that best supports the owner’s goals.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Arcadia Jets on September 22, 2026.

NAFA member Tripp Thurston, CFO and Group President of Firecrown Media and COO of FLYING Finance, shares part one in his three-part article series.

There is more to the latest GAMA report than the top-line number shows.

GAMA’s second-quarter 2026 shipment report landed September 3, and the headline number is fine: 1,458 airplanes shipped through the first half of the year, up modestly from 2025’s pace, with piston deliveries alone running at 786 units year-to-date.

But the unit count is the least interesting thing in this report. The more useful question is what buyers are actually choosing once they show up with a checkbook, and the data is plain on that point: the market is moving upmarket, and it’s moving faster than most people building financing products for it have adjusted to.

Beechcraft Just Told You Where This Is Going

In November 2025, Textron Aviation announced it would end production of the Beechcraft Bonanza G36 and Baron G58, two of the longest-running nameplates in general aviation, with more than 24,000 combined deliveries since launch. The official reason was a sustained sales decline and a decision to redirect resources toward the Beechcraft Denali, the single-engine turboprop that’s been in development since 2016 and is now sliding toward first deliveries this year following the GE Catalyst engine’s February 2025 certification.

The GAMA numbers make the case better than the press release did. Bonanza and Baron shipments combined for exactly two units in Q1 2026 and two more in Q2, four airplanes, worldwide, across a full six months, for a platform that once anchored Beechcraft’s piston lineup. That’s not a soft quarter. That’s a company that has already, functionally, stopped building these airplanes and is running out remaining orders while it waits for Denali certification to clear.

The trade being made is stark by price alone. A Bonanza or Baron new-build sold somewhere in the neighborhood of $1 million to $1.3 million depending on configuration. The Denali is expected to list around $6.4 million to $6.6 million, call it five times the price, for a buyer moving from piston to single-engine turboprop performance. Textron isn’t just retiring two old airframes; it’s reallocating its entire piston-adjacent product investment toward a buyer who can write a much bigger check. That’s premiumization in one company’s product roadmap, and it’s not unique to Beechcraft. It’s the same logic playing out across nearly every OEM’s shipment mix this quarter.

Where This Actually Started, And Why It Isn’t Reversing

It’s worth asking whether this is a genuinely new phenomenon or the continuation of something that’s been building for a while, because the answer changes how you should underwrite around it. Our read: premiumization is largely a COVID-era pivot that never unwound, and the clearest way to see that is to look at what happened in adjacent industries facing the identical supply-and-demand math at the identical moment.

Start with the mechanism. Through 2020 and into 2021, general aviation, like automotive and marine, saw a genuine surge in demand for personal, private transportation as buyers sought alternatives to shared and commercial travel, arriving right as global supply chains for engines, avionics, semiconductors, and raw materials seized up. That combination forced every manufacturer with capacity-constrained production into the same decision: when you can only build a fixed number of units regardless of demand, you build the ones that carry the best margin per constrained production slot. Selling a $6 million turboprop instead of a $1.2 million piston single, out of the same limited factory capacity, isn’t a discretionary choice at that point. It is a strategic business decision to maximize yield.

The automotive industry ran this exact playbook in the open, and it’s well documented. During the 2021 to 2022 chip shortage, automakers explicitly prioritized truck and SUV production over sedans, because those larger vehicles carry meaningfully better margins for only marginally higher production cost, loaded with technology and premium options that cost little extra to build but support real pricing power.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by FLYING Finance on September 10, 2026.

NAFA member Western Aviation shares their latest article about what to look for in an aircraft appraisal company.

Determining an aircraft's true value requires specialized knowledge that goes far beyond a simple estimate. Buyers, sellers, and lenders all depend on accurate valuations before making significant financial decisions. Choosing the right provider for this important task can make a meaningful difference in the outcome. The following factors explain what to look for when selecting a partner for this work. Understanding these considerations ahead of time can help you avoid a costly, uninformed decision.

Verifying Proper Certifications And Accreditations

Proper credentials play a critical role in ensuring an appraisal meets recognized industry standards. An aircraft appraisal company holding ASA Senior Accredited Appraiser status and USPAP certification demonstrates a strong commitment to accuracy. These certifications reflect specialized training and adherence to established valuation methods and ethical guidelines. Recognized industry bodies typically require ongoing education to maintain this level of accreditation. Verifying these credentials upfront helps buyers and sellers feel confident in the reliability of the final report. This confidence often matters most when large sums of money are involved. This kind of accreditation often distinguishes a truly qualified provider from less experienced alternatives. Clients should never hesitate to ask directly about a provider's specific certifications and credentials.

Choosing Between Onsite And Desktop Appraisals

Different situations call for different types of appraisal reports depending on time and inspection needs. An aircraft appraisal company offering both onsite and desktop appraisals provides flexibility for varying client circumstances. Onsite reports include physical inspection, logbook review, and photography for a thorough, detailed assessment. This hands-on approach often uncovers details that remote review alone might miss. Desktop appraisals offer a quicker option when time is limited or a physical inspection is not required. This option often suits preliminary evaluations or situations requiring a faster turnaround. Understanding which option fits your specific situation helps ensure you receive the most appropriate valuation. Discussing your timeline and needs upfront helps a provider recommend the right type of report.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Western Aviation on August 21, 2026.

NAFA member Adam Hahn, CEO and Founder of Arcadia Jets, shares his latest article on how to sell your aircraft faster.

Why Some Aircraft Sell Quickly While Others Sit

Aircraft owners often begin the sales process with a simple goal: sell my aircraft as quickly as possible while achieving a fair market value. Unfortunately, speed and value do not always go hand in hand. Some aircraft generate buyer interest almost immediately, while others remain on the market for months with little activity. The difference is rarely the aircraft alone. More often, it is the strategy behind the sale.

Successful aircraft sales begin long before a listing is published. Buyers evaluate aircraft based on value, condition, maintenance history, market positioning, and perceived risk. Sellers who understand these factors are typically better positioned to attract qualified buyers and move transactions forward efficiently. At Arcadia Jets, we often find that preparation plays a greater role in transaction speed than many owners initially realize.

Preparing Your Aircraft for the Market

One of the most effective ways to accelerate a sale is to prepare the aircraft before it reaches the marketplace. Buyers want confidence, and confidence often begins with documentation. Maintenance records, logbooks, inspection status, equipment lists, and ownership information should be organized and readily available.

Presentation also matters. An aircraft that appears well-maintained and professionally represented generally creates a stronger first impression than one with incomplete information or outdated marketing materials. Buyers are investing significant resources, and they often view preparation as a reflection of how the aircraft has been cared for throughout its ownership history.

The more questions that can be answered early, the easier it becomes for buyers to move forward confidently.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Arcadia Jets on September 8, 2026.

NAFA member Amanda Applegate, Partner at Soar Aviation Law, shares her latest article about how to avoid costly mistakes when selling an aircraft.

When an aircraft owner decides to sell their aircraft, timing and precision are critical. Failing to execute key preparatory steps at the appropriate stage of the transaction can lead to significant financial costs, delays, or legal defaults. This article outlines ten essential actions required to ensure a smooth and successful aircraft sale.

1. Aircraft Specification Sheet (Marketing Materials) When marketing the aircraft for sale, the specification sheet must be 100% accurate. Advertising an aircraft with certain options or equipment only to discover a misrepresentation during the sale process can lead to serious legal and financial implications, including seller default.

2. Loose Equipment List  Establishing a definitive loose equipment list early in the process is vital. This equipment has value, and inventorying it in advance reduces the time required to finalize the sale agreement. Often, the loose equipment list is an exhibit to the sale agreement and failure to prepare it in advance can cause significant signing delays.

3. Aircraft Registration Number  Many aircraft owners have aircraft registration numbers that are important and personal to them and want the registration number excluded from the aircraft sale. The best way to make sure a seller does not lose control of their registration number is to change it prior to closing. A seller can submit the request to change the registration number with the FAA, although it is important to keep in mind that it is currently taking over three months for the FAA registry to issue 8050-64 forms. Once the 8050-64 form is issued, the owner of the aircraft has up to 12 months to make the registration number change. The 8050-64 form can be obtained in advance of listing the aircraft for sale and the aircraft registration number can be changed during the inspection of the aircraft and/or during the repair of discrepancies. This allows sellers to maintain control of the registration number that is important to them. Failure to follow this process means that a seller must negotiate with the buyer to get the registration number back after the aircraft is sold, which sometimes can result in delays or even the loss of the registration number.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Soar Aviation Law on August 18, 2026.

Aircraft owners must address a range of factors to maximize the sale price of their asset. From maintenance readiness to the negotiation process itself, industry experts share their sellers’ tips with Gerrard Cowan.

At the most basic level, aircraft readiness plays a key role in terms of aircraft sellers maximizing the value of a transaction to them.

According to Todd Jackson, Senior Vice President of Sales at Elliott Jets, aircraft that are current, well-presented and in turnkey condition tend to move through the process more efficiently and with less pricing pressure. “From the seller’s perspective, many of the costs are tied to how the aircraft is perceived before and during the transaction,” he notes.

Deferred maintenance and overall presentation have a direct impact on value, he warns. “Worn interiors, outdated avionics, or inconsistent records can influence buyer perception early, and create hesitation before the aircraft even reaches inspection.”

It is not uncommon for sellers to receive offers significantly below their asking price for failing to optimize presentation of their aircraft's interior and paint.

“Cosmetic deficiencies such as worn interiors, outdated paint, or malfunctioning cabin systems” all have an adverse impact for the aircraft seller, adds Aurelie Millet, Vice President of Sales at Opus Aero.

She highlights the potential impact of outstanding liens, or expired subscriptions or databases for avionics and connectivity systems as being a problem area. “Even relatively minor issues can reduce buyer confidence and lead to significant price reductions.”

The financial impact of failing to address these areas can be substantial, she says. A cosmetic refurbishment costing tens of thousands of dollars could preserve a much larger amount of value by improving first impressions and reducing buyer objections.

And Millet notes the danger of failing to position the aircraft in a marketable condition due to such factors as overdue inspections or unresolved discrepancies.

A stale listing can be particularly expensive, she says. “When an aircraft remains unsold for months, buyers may perceive it as problematic and become more aggressive in negotiations.”

Read full article here

This article was originally published by AvBuyer on August 3, 2026.

NAFA member Arcadia Jets shares their latest article on how brokerage services simplify aircraft sales.

Selling an aircraft sounds simple until the process begins. Owners often assume the most difficult part will be finding a buyer, but experienced aircraft owners know that locating a prospective buyer is only one step in a much larger transaction. Pricing strategy, aircraft presentation, maintenance records, market conditions, inspections, negotiations, documentation, escrow, financing, and closing all influence whether a sale succeeds or falls apart.

This complexity is exactly why aircraft brokerage services continue to play an important role throughout the general aviation marketplace. A professional broker helps sellers navigate a process that can quickly become overwhelming while helping buyers evaluate opportunities with greater confidence. At Arcadia Jets, we view brokerage as much more than marketing aircraft. We view it as guiding clients through a transaction that involves significant financial decisions and long-term ownership considerations.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Arcadia Jets on July 7, 2026.

NAFA member CFS Jets shares part two of their latest article on when to replace a business jet.

Determining the right time to replace a business aircraft requires balancing operational risks against financial considerations. This article examines how aging jets accumulate downtime and maintenance risks while exploring whether to keep an older aircraft, purchase a newer pre-owned jet, or invest in a factory-new replacement. Through detailed financial modeling and real-world case studies, discover how net operating costs and NPV analysis can guide strategic aircraft replacement decisions.

Previously, we established that a business aircraft should be replaced when its risk profile begins to outweigh the benefit. This inflection point is rarely driven by a single cost, but by the combined effect of rising downtime risk, the growing likelihood of major maintenance events, fuel inefficiency, and growing regulatory and compliance burdens.

As aircraft age, operational volatility grows. More AOG days, longer MRO shop visits, parts constraints, and higher exposure to unplanned disruptions all increase.

When the expected cost of these risks – particularly aircraft downtime that directly impacts the business – approaches or exceeds the capital and financing cost of a replacement aircraft, replacement becomes economically justified.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by CFS Jets on June 10, 2026.

NAFA member Arcadia Jets shares their latest article about aircraft brokers and what they do. 

Ask someone outside the aviation industry what an aircraft broker does and the answer is usually simple: a broker helps buy and sell airplanes. While technically accurate, that explanation barely scratches the surface of the role a professional aircraft broker plays in a successful transaction.

Aircraft ownership represents a significant financial commitment, and unlike many other assets, every airplane carries a unique history. Two aircraft of the same make, model, and year can have dramatically different values and ownership experiences. Maintenance practices, operational history, avionics upgrades, inspection status, engine programs, and recordkeeping all influence not only what an aircraft is worth today, but also what it may cost to own tomorrow.

This is where an experienced aircraft broker creates value. Rather than focusing solely on the transaction itself, a broker helps buyers and sellers understand the broader picture. The objective is not simply to complete a sale. The objective is to help clients make informed decisions that support their long-term aviation goals.

At Arcadia Jets, we often tell clients that the airplane is only one piece of the transaction. Understanding the aircraft, the market, and the strategy behind the acquisition or sale is what ultimately determines success.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Arcadia Jets on June 30, 2026.

NAFA member SOLJETS shares their latest article on steps to take before selling or upgrading your aircraft.

Selling or upgrading a private jet is a major financial decision, and for many owners, it is also a highly personal one. Whether your aircraft no longer fits your mission profile, your travel needs have changed, or you are ready to move into a newer platform, the process requires careful preparation. The most successful transactions rarely happen by chance. They happen when owners take the right steps before bringing their aircraft to market.‍

Before listing your jet or beginning the search for an upgrade, here are several important steps every aircraft owner should consider.

‍Understand Your Current Mission Needs

‍Before deciding what comes next, take a close look at how you use your aircraft today. Has your typical passenger count changed? Are you flying longer routes? Do you need better runway performance, more cabin space, upgraded avionics, or improved operating efficiency?

‍Many owners begin the upgrade process with a specific aircraft in mind, but the better starting point is your mission profile. A jet that made perfect sense five years ago may no longer be the best fit. By clearly defining your travel patterns, budget, range requirements, and cabin expectations, you can make a more confident decision about whether to sell, upgrade, or hold.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by SOLJETS on July 5, 2026.

NAFA member Shawn Holstein, President of Holstein Aviation, shares his recent blog about fractional rebound in the market.

Following the unprecedented demand for full aircraft ownership during and immediately after the pandemic, the fractional aircraft ownership market is experiencing a strong resurgence. For those in the market for business aircraft sales, this shift is more than just a market trend—it’s a major indicator of evolving buyer behavior and a potential pathway to full ownership. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for both sellers and first-time buyers weighing their options.

WHAT’S DRIVING THE FRACTIONAL REBOUND?

Several key factors are fueling the renewed interest in fractional ownership, which offers a cost-effective alternative to owning an entire aircraft.

• Renewed Market Stability: After a period of record-high demand and tight supply, the private aviation market has normalized. Fractional providers have been able to replenish their fleets, improving availability and giving buyers confidence in their ability to meet demand.

• The Appeal of Flexibility: Fractional ownership allows buyers to access a fleet of aircraft without the full financial and operational commitment of sole ownership. It provides a more flexible solution for those with predictable flight patterns or a fluctuating need for private travel.

• A “Step-Up” from Jet Cards: Many users who first experienced private travel through jet cards during the pandemic are now looking for a more committed, cost-effective solution. Fractional ownership provides the next logical step, offering higher priority access and more stable pricing.

• Lower Initial Investment: The initial capital outlay for a fractional share is significantly less than for a full aircraft acquisition. This makes it an attractive entry point into private aviation for a broader demographic of affluent individuals and companies.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Holstein Aviation on June 12, 2026.

How can you tell why an owner is selling their aircraft, and the level of offer they will accept for it? Getting those answers might be easier than you think, as Chris Kjelgaard discovers...

Buying a pre-owned business aircraft isn’t just a matter of paying the sticker price listed in an advertisement by the seller’s agent and walking away with the aircraft’s title documents.

Contacting the seller’s agent – or, more likely, having a broker do so as your representative – is just the first step in a complex and sometimes lengthy process of communication, negotiation, compromise, physical inspection, and (occasionally) modification of the asset in question.

But at the root of all purchases of pre-owned business aircraft are three important questions to which the buyer needs to learn the answers if they’re to know that the aircraft they are pursuing is worth buying.

• What’s the seller’s motivation for selling the aircraft?
• What level – below the asking price or otherwise – will the seller agree to sell the aircraft for?
• Is the aircraft worth buying for that price – or for any price?

Research the Aircraft Seller’s Background 

Knowing something of a seller’s background and why that seller is motivated to sell their aircraft provides the first important clues the buyer needs in understanding the complete picture of the transaction. 

Luckily for the buyer, says Forrest Owens, Principal of Aviation Legal Counsel, “The [stories sellers] tell are usually apparent: they usually come to light pretty quickly. Based on the price of the deal and how urgent they are, you usually can figure out why someone is selling.” Indeed, the reasons are varied across the board. 

Read full article here

This article was originally published by AvBuyer on June 10, 2026.

NAFA member Western Aviation shares their latest article on Aircraft Appraisals.

The appraisal of an aircraft is a nuanced process requiring expertise, precision, and a deep understanding of the aviation market. Every valuation reflects a combination of physical condition, operational history, technological integration, and market trends. Buyers and sellers alike benefit from professional insight into how these factors influence an aircraft's current and future value. This article outlines the critical components that impact an aircraft appraisal, offering actionable guidance for stakeholders seeking reliable assessments.

1. Evaluate the Condition of the Aircraft

1.1 Inspect Exterior and Interior Thoroughly

The physical condition of an aircraft is a primary determinant of its market value. Detailed inspections of both exterior and interior components reveal wear, cosmetic issues, and potential underlying problems that may affect safety and longevity. Even minor imperfections, such as scratches or paint chipping, may signal the need for deeper evaluation. Using advanced inspection tools and methodologies ensures a precise assessment, aligning findings with industry standards.

Interior condition also directly impacts passenger comfort, operational safety, and market perception. Evaluations include seating, cabin layout, lighting, galley systems, and overall aesthetics. Upgrades and refurbishments that enhance passenger experience often increase appraisal value. Integrating specialized aviation consulting support is essential to interpret these findings effectively, especially as approximately 50% of air traffic management projects now rely on digital and automated systems, which influence the operational relevance of the aircraft.

1.2 Review Maintenance Records

Comprehensive maintenance documentation is essential in validating an aircraft's operational reliability. Records detail routine maintenance, major overhauls, and compliance with service bulletins. Consistent and well-maintained logs positively influence aircraft appraisal outcomes, while gaps or inconsistencies can raise concerns. Appraisers closely examine adherence to mandatory schedules and regulatory compliance, which ensures airworthiness and operational predictability.

Engine and component histories are also critical. Proper documentation demonstrates foresight in managing wear and replacement schedules, contributing to the aircraft's credibility and long-term value. This review process ensures that prospective buyers and investors have confidence in the aircraft's condition.

1.3 Assess Engine and Component Health

Engine performance and the condition of major components are core factors in determining aircraft value. Appraisers analyze metrics such as fuel efficiency, power output, and reliability, considering both historical data and projected operational longevity. Well-maintained engines and components indicate readiness and safety, which directly impact market appeal. In contrast, signs of repeated repairs or declining performance can reduce appraisal values.

The availability of replacement parts and potential upgrades also informs valuations. Scarcity of parts in older models can increase operational costs, while modern systems with accessible components enhance the aircraft's usability and attractiveness. Continuous monitoring and specialized diagnostics provide data-driven insight into engine and component health, forming a robust basis for accurate aircraft appraisal.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by Western Aviation on May 11, 2026.

NAFA member David G. Mayer, Partner at Shackelford, McKinley & Norton, LLP, shares his latest article on aircraft refinancing.

Cash is king, but using other people's money could be more advantageous.

A subtle shift toward refinancing business aircraft appears to be underway. Although an estimated 70% of aircraft buyers pay cash, these figures do not reflect financing trends I have noticed in loan and lease activity since 2025 amid robust demand for business aircraft. Perhaps this preference for paying cash is softening as buyers conclude that it results in lost financial opportunities, a counterproductive allocation of capital, and a diminution in accumulated wealth.

Two Categories of Refinancing  

At a high level, aircraft refinancings fall into two broad categories: secured loans and sale-leasebacks. A refinancing here refers to a loan or lease (financing) completed after the aircraft purchase date. 

In a secured loan, a lender disburses funds to an owner/borrower in one or more advances, including new aircraft progress payments. The lender secures repayment by obtaining a security interest in the purchase agreement, the aircraft and related assets under a security agreement/ mortgage.

A true sale-leaseback occurs when an owner sells the aircraft to a buyer/lessor at 100 percent of the agreed-upon sale or market value and then leases it back to the selling owner. A lease of a business aircraft under the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) generally means a transfer by a lessor to a lessee of the right to possess and use the aircraft for a term in return for consideration, such as hourly, fixed, or variable rents. Lessors also fund progress payments and convert them into a lease.

Read full article here

This article was originally published by AINsight on May 8, 2026.