The next generation takes flight: Jetcraft sees younger buyer demand almost double in the last decade

Once the preserve of seasoned executives, buying a business aircraft is now being driven by a generation of entrepreneurs and new tech billionaires who view private jets as a strategic business asset.

Demand for more

Jetcraft’s Ever Forward, Pre-Owned Business Aviation Report, reveals the share of buyers under 45 has nearly doubled in the last decade, reaching 29% in 2024. The growth in younger ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) is being further fueled by the ‘Great Wealth Transfer,’ as inheritors of family wealth enter the market earlier than previous generations. These UHNWIs, who built their success in entertainment, technology and finance, are making smart investments by purchasing aircraft to enhance efficiency, security, and privacy.

With speed and connectivity at the core of their business dealings, this group of buyers require aircraft that support a fast-paced lifestyle. In a world where business leaders must be in multiple locations within hours, private aviation is the only way to maintain a competitive edge as the real value of ownership is convenience and time saved.

Buyers with big ambitions

The growing preference for larger jets, now comprising 20% of total deals, is a testament to how the industry is adapting. Business leaders want to easily travel between destinations, remaining productive on the move. Large cabin jets like the Gulfstream G650 and Bombardier Global 7500 are leading the charge for these buyers by offering cross-continental capabilities, state-of-the-art connectivity and fully equipped interiors designed to serve as mobile offices and personal sanctuaries. With fine dining capabilities, private suites and advanced entertainment systems, these aircraft reflect the lifestyle of their owners, whether they’re closing a deal or unwinding at 40,000 feet.

Confidence in the corporate buyer

For now, the Americas remain a business aviation powerhouse, accounting for 79% of Jetcraft’s global transactions since 2020. Corporate buyers still make up 60% of all sales and with the current administration favoring corporate America, business leaders continue to see private jets as indispensable business tools.

While the industry is in a much-awaited period of market stability, shifts in economic policy and geopolitical uncertainty are influencing purchasing trends and the outlook remains strong. The uncertainty surrounding tariffs presents a temporary challenge. It’s difficult to predict long-term impact on the pre-owned aviation market, but in the short term, US buyers are likely to favor domestically registered and manufactured aircraft. While demand may see an initial dip, history suggests a potential return to COVID-era supply constraints, which could push prices upward as US buyers look for domestically registered and based aircraft to avoid tariffs.

Looking ahead

Jetcraft forecast’s 11,202 pre-owned aircraft transactions valued at $73.9 billion over the next five years signaling sustained industry confidence. The narrative unfolding in the business aviation sector is one of opportunity. The rise of younger buyers is more than a passing trend, it is a gradual change in how business aviation is perceived and utilized. For today’s business leaders, the message is clear: time is a valuable asset and owning the right aircraft is the ultimate way to save it.

To download Ever Forward, 2025’s Pre-Owned Business Jet Market Forecast and explore the findings in full, visit https://www.jetcraft.com/market-report-2025/. 

—Chad Anderson, CEO, Jetcraft