Rich investors are reselling brand-new private jets for millions of dollars shortly after delivery, capitalizing on surging demand and supply chain delays. Industry experts say strong appetite for private air travel, combined with production backlogs, has created a thriving secondary market where original buyers quickly flip aircraft for profit.
"Anyone taking delivery of a new heavy jet is likely to find a ready resale market," said Oliver Tebbit, a partner at law firm HFW. Demand is especially high among tech-sector wealth creators, while manufacturers struggle with shortages of castings, forgings and labor. A new Gulfstream G700, typically priced around $80mn before customization, can sell for 10% above cost.
Tax incentives from US President Donald Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed in 2025, have also driven demand by allowing full cost offsets in the first year. Previously, buyers flipped purchase agreements before delivery, but manufacturers clamped down. Now, sales occur on or soon after delivery, with one jet bought for $77mn resold for $84mn and later offered in the mid-$90mn range.
Advisers note that buyers seeking quick profits are turning to fractional ownership models via companies like Net Jets.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing