Best Time to Buy Aircraft: Complete Seasonal Buying Guide

Understanding seasonal aircraft buying patterns helps buyers save 10-20% through strategic timing. Market demand, inventory levels, and seller motivation vary significantly throughout the year.

Monthly Market Analysis

January-February (Best Deals):

• Prices: Lowest of year (10-15% below peak)
• Inventory: Limited but motivated sellers
• Competition: Minimal buyer activity
• Weather: Difficult for inspections/demo flights
• Strategy: Patient buyers find excellent deals

March-April (Market Wakes):

• Prices: Rising from winter lows
• Inventory: Increasing rapidly
• Competition: Growing buyer interest
• Weather: Improving for inspections
• Strategy: Good balance of inventory and pricing

May-June (Peak Season):

• Prices: Highest of year
• Inventory: Maximum selection
• Competition: Multiple offers common
• Weather: Ideal flying conditions
• Strategy: Best selection but pay premium

July-August (Strong Market):

• Prices: Remain high
• Inventory: Good availability
• Competition: Still competitive
• Regional: Southwest slows (heat)

September-October (Softening):

• Prices: Declining 5-8%
• Inventory: Motivated sellers emerge
• Competition: Reduced significantly
• Strategy: Good negotiating leverage

November-December (Slow):

• Prices: Near yearly lows
• Inventory: Limited listings
• Competition: Very few buyers
• Holidays: Distracted sellers

Best Time to Buy by Aircraft Type

Trainers (172, Cherokee):

• Best: November-February (off-season for schools)
• Worst: March-April (schools restocking)
• Savings: 10-15% winter vs spring

Personal/Family Aircraft:

• Best: October-January (tax planning, year-end)
• Worst: May-June (vacation season)
• Savings: 8-12% seasonal variation

Business Aircraft:

• Best: December (tax year-end pressure)
• Worst: March-April (strong economy)
• Savings: 5-10% timing dependent

Economic Timing Strategies

Buy During Recessions:

• 15-25% below normal market prices
• Desperate sellers, limited buyers
• Financing may be tighter
• Best long-term values

Sell During Booms:

• Premium prices, strong demand
• Quick sales, multiple offers
• Easy financing for buyers

Frequently Asked Questions

When is cheapest time to buy aircraft?

January-February offers lowest prices—10-15% below peak. November-December also excellent (8-12% below peak). Best deals from motivated year-end sellers and minimal buyer competition. Weather challenges offset by significant savings.

Should I wait for winter to buy aircraft?

If not urgent, yes. Winter savings (10-15%) often exceed $10,000-$30,000 on typical aircraft. However, risk losing specific aircraft waiting. Balance timing savings against finding ideal aircraft.

When do most aircraft go on market?

March-April sees maximum new listings as sellers prepare for spring buying season. Peak inventory May-June provides best selection but highest prices. Trade-off between selection (spring) and price (winter).

Is it better to buy aircraft in spring or fall?

Fall (September-October) offers best balance: decent inventory, reduced competition, 5-8% lower prices than spring peak. Spring (March-May) provides maximum selection but highest prices and most competition.

How much can I save buying off-season?

Winter purchases save 10-15% ($10,000-$40,000 on typical aircraft) versus spring peak. Fall purchases save 5-8%. Seasonal timing one of largest controllable cost factors. Motivated sellers negotiate more aggressively during slow periods.