SmartJets sees growth in business aircraft market originating at the top

Leading business aircraft dealer-broker, SmartJets, has announced its outlook for a strong Q4 2026.

The business jet market is in full growth, characterized by high transaction volumes and large manufacturer backlogs. A community of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and corporate flight departments are principally driving this trend. In response to buyer demand for maximum range and optimal cabin capacity, the long-range business jet market segment is expected to see the fastest growth.

Gulfstream G550 acquired by SmartJets in February 2026.

Long wait times for new aircraft deliveries are causing some buyers to look more favorably at pre-owned long-range business aircraft and transactions are up 7% YTD (H1 2026 over H1 2025), according to AMSTAT. The combination of immediate availability and price discount (relative to new aircraft) is creating scarcity of select models while simultaneously driving up prices.

Another key factor for US-based buyers is bonus depreciation, a tax incentive that allows businesses to deduct 100% of the cost of an aircraft in the year it is purchased. Bonus depreciation typically drives Q4 sales for aircraft buyers wishing to file expenses before year end.

Bombardier Global 7500 acquired by SmartJets in May 2026.

“The business jet market is growing and expected to keep on track for the foreseeable future,” says Ben Shirazi, President, SmartJets. “What’s remarkable is that growth is being driven by the pinnacle of the market. The demand for new, long-range business aircraft is high and backlogs are significant. The result is that many buyers are looking at top tier pre-owned business aircraft as alternatives.”

Dassault Falcon 8X acquired by SmartJets in July 2026.

“For example, we sold or acquired several Bombardier Globals - including a 7500, Gulfstream G550s and Dassault Falcons - including an 8X, in the last year. These are fabulous long-range business aircraft only a generation or two older than models currently rolling out of OEM factories. The discounts can be very significant and the value of these aircraft is excellent but the challenge is finding one!

"We do not see a reversal of the current trends of decreasing supply and rising prices. Add bonus depreciation - which as of September 15th is also a driver for Canadian buyers - as we head into Q4 and the reasons are even more compelling for clients to buy now,” he concludes.

BlueSky Business Aviation News | 1st October 2026 | Issue #860