Selling a private jet usually takes about three months once it is priced correctly: JETNET’s mid-2026 market report put average days on market at 98 for business jets, with late-model aircraft (0–5 years old) selling in about 54 days and jets older than 25 years taking 128 days or more. What separates a quick, full-value sale from a long one is rarely the market itself — it is how well the aircraft’s records, inspection status and price are prepared before it is listed.
This guide walks through valuation, remarketing and timing from the owner’s side, including the costs sellers often forget and the questions to ask before signing a listing agreement.
The pre-owned market has stayed relatively tight for sellers. According to JETNET’s JIQ Market Barometer (published July 29, 2026), 6.6% of the business jet fleet was listed for sale in the first half of 2026, down from 7.3% in 2025. Industry analysts generally treat 8–10% as a balanced market, so sub-7% inventory still favors well-presented aircraft.
The picture is not uniform, though. JETNET reported trailing-twelve-month average asking prices of $3.21 million for small jets (−1.6% year over year), $5.27 million for medium jets (−5.2%) and $12.63 million for large jets (−15.7%). Days on market rose 5.6% year over year, and for 21–25-year-old aircraft by nearly 30%. Meanwhile, the International Aircraft Dealers Association (IADA) reported 746 pre-owned transactions by its members in H1 2026, up 21% from H1 2025, as summarized by AeroCorner on July 30, 2026.
What that means for a seller. Demand exists, but buyers are price-sensitive on older and large-cabin aircraft. Pricing to the market on day one matters more than it did in 2022.
There is no single “book price.” A credible valuation starts from recent comparable transactions and current listings for the same model, then adjusts for the specific aircraft. The adjustments that move value most:
A practical approach: commission an independent appraisal and a records review before choosing an asking price, rather than relying on the highest number a broker offers to win the listing.
| Item | Why buyers care | Owner action |
|---|---|---|
| Complete, scanned logbooks | Missing records drive discounts or kill deals | Audit and digitize before listing |
| Next major inspection date | Buyers price in the cost of upcoming inspections | Get a quote; decide whether to complete or credit |
| Engine/APU program status | Transferable coverage reduces buyer risk | Confirm transferability and paid-up status |
| Damage history file | Undisclosed damage surfaces at pre-buy | Assemble repair documentation up front |
| Liens and registration | Title must be clean at closing | Order a title search early |
| Charter history (if Part 135) | Shows use pattern and maintenance discipline | Request records from your operator |
| Cosmetic condition | First impression at viewing | Detail; repair obvious wear only |
Before or after a major inspection? Selling just after a major calendar inspection usually supports a stronger price and a shorter pre-buy, because the buyer’s biggest near-term cost is gone. Selling just before one means the buyer will discount the expected cost, often by more than the actual invoice. Get a quote either way so the number in negotiation is real, not guessed.
Age matters more than season. JETNET’s data shows days on market more than doubling between the newest and oldest aircraft. If an aircraft is approaching an age bracket where buyer interest thins, or a mandated upgrade is coming, selling earlier can preserve value.
Tax timing. Depreciation recapture, state sales/use tax and the timing of a replacement purchase can change the net result substantially. Coordinate with an aviation tax advisor before signing an LOI.
Keep it flying. An aircraft that remains in service, with current maintenance and crew familiarity, is generally easier to show and inspect than one parked for months.
Many sales go faster when the aircraft has been professionally managed: maintenance tracking, records and inspection planning are already organized. Silver Air is an FAA Part 135 operator founded in 2008 that manages aircraft from the Pilatus PC-12 to the Gulfstream G550 and Global Express. For owners whose aircraft is on our certificate, we can help assemble maintenance and charter records, plan inspection timing around a sale, and keep the aircraft flying and earning while it is listed. [NEEDS CONFIRMATION FROM OPS: Silver Air’s role in brokerage/remarketing and fee structure.] Owners who are selling to move to charter or a different aircraft can also talk to us about charter or aircraft management for the next aircraft.
How long does it take to sell a private jet in 2026?
JETNET reported an average of 98 days on market (June 2026 trailing twelve months). Late-model jets averaged about 54 days; aircraft over 25 years old averaged 128 days. Add several weeks for the LOI, pre-buy inspection and closing.
How do I find out what my jet is worth?
Get an independent appraisal based on recent comparable sales and current listings for your model, adjusted for total time, engine program coverage, inspection status, damage history and avionics.
Should I sell my jet to a dealer or use a broker?
A dealer purchase is fastest and simplest but typically at a lower price. A broker markets the aircraft to end buyers for a commission and usually achieves more, but takes longer. Compare net proceeds, not headline price.
Should I complete a major inspection before selling?
Often yes, if the inspection is close: buyers tend to discount an upcoming inspection by more than it costs. Get a firm quote to decide.
Can I sell a jet that is on a Part 135 charter certificate?
Yes. The aircraft can usually keep flying charter while listed; the operator removes it from the certificate at closing. Charter records can reassure buyers about maintenance discipline.
What happens at a pre-buy inspection?
The buyer’s chosen facility inspects the aircraft and records. Discrepancies are negotiated: the seller fixes them, credits the buyer, or the buyer accepts them. The LOI should define scope and who pays.
What paperwork is needed to close?
A purchase agreement, bill of sale, warranty of title, lien releases, FAA registration filings and escrow instructions, plus delivery of all aircraft records.
Questions about selling an aircraft we manage, or planning what comes next? Contact Silver Air.
Sources: JETNET, JIQ Market Barometer, Edition 5 (July 29, 2026); IADA second-quarter 2026 market report as summarized by AeroCorner (July 30, 2026).
Reviewed October 28, 2026 by the Silver Air team.
