In business aviation, inventory levels are one of the most important indicators of market health. They influence pricing power, buyer leverage, days on market, and even how transactions are structured. After hitting historic lows in 2022 — when less than 3% of the world’s fleet was available for sale — pre-owned inventory has been gradually climbing. By 2025, buyers have more options, while sellers face a more competitive landscape.

Understanding where inventory stands, and what it means for your specific aircraft category, is critical whether you’re preparing to buy or sell.

THE EVOLUTION OF INVENTORY

During the 2020–2022 period, pandemic-era demand and limited new aircraft production created unprecedented scarcity. Sellers could command record premiums, and buyers often competed in multiple-offer scenarios. That environment has shifted.

• Current Levels: Inventory is now closer to 5–6% of the global fleet — still below them 10–12% that many analysts consider “balanced,” but notably higher than the lows of recent years.

• Segment Differences: Light and midsize aircrafts are seeing the most inventory growth, as owners upgrade or cycle out of older aircraft. Large-cabin and ultra-long-range aircrafts remain tighter, though supply is gradually improving as OEMs increase production.

• Geographic Variations: North America continues to hold the majority of pre-owned inventory, but more aircraft are being offered out of Europe and Asia, broadening buyer options.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR BUYERS

For buyers, the increase in inventory creates opportunities:

• More Selection: Instead of choosing between two or three acceptable aircraft, buyers may now have ten or more options in each category. This makes it easier to find the right fit in terms of pedigree, programs, and cabin configuration.

• Negotiation Leverage: With sellers competing for attention, buyers can push for stronger terms — from price adjustments to seller-paid inspection findings.

• Time to Evaluate: Gone are the days of making an offer within hours to avoid losing out. Buyers now have more breathing room to conduct due diligence, compare options, and negotiate from a position of strength.

• Still Act Decisively on the Best Aircraft: High-pedigree examples — U.S.-based, low-time, fully on programs, with clean records — still move quickly. Buyers should not hesitate when a best-in-class aircraft surfaces.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR SELLERS

For sellers, rising inventory means increased competition:

• Stronger Marketing Required: Listings need professional photography, detailed specifications, and comprehensive digital records. Presentation matters more than ever.

• Pricing Discipline: Overpricing in a competitive environment only prolongs days on market and risks eventual price cuts. Smart sellers position their aircraft attractively from the outset.

• Differentiation is Key: Aircraft with updated avionics, fresh paint, or Wi-Fi upgrades stand out and command stronger offers. Highlighting pedigree is critical.

• Flexibility Wins Transactions: Willingness to negotiate, cover certain inspection findings, or accommodate international buyers’ requirements can set your aircraft apart from similar listings.

A BALANCED MARKET EMERGING

Rising inventory doesn’t mean a collapse in values. Instead, it signals the market is returning to balance. Buyers have more choice, but not unlimited leverage. Sellers can still achieve strong outcomes, particularly with well-positioned aircraft, but they must be realistic and proactive.

LOOKING FORWARD

If current trends continue, inventory may continue its slow climb toward historic averages. For buyers, this means continued opportunity. For sellers, it means sharper focus on positioning, presentation, and pricing. The message is clear: strategy matters more in 2025 than it did in the frenzied years of limited supply.

Inventory levels are one of the clearest indicators of how the market is shifting. For buyers, more choice means stronger negotiating power and a better chance of finding the perfect aircraft. For sellers, higher inventory means sharper strategy and professional representation are essential to stand out.

At Holstein Aviation, our IADA-certified professionals monitor inventory data daily, giving clients the most current picture of the market. Whether you’re buying or selling, we use this intelligence to position you for success, ensuring your transaction reflects both today’s realities and tomorrow’s opportunities.