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Is an economic slump the right time to buy a plane?

On Behalf of | Jun 5, 2025 | Aviation Law |

Purchasing a plane is a major investment. Businesses may rely on airplanes to provide services to their clients and customers. Individuals may use airplanes for personal recreation or a small business.

Regardless of whether the acquisition is for pleasure or profit, prospective airplane buyers often wait and gauge the market carefully before making an offer. Those who wish to acquire airplanes may believe that times of economic uncertainty are not an ideal time to make a major financial decision. They may worry about fluctuations in their income in the near future.

Despite the potential drawbacks that people and business leaders should consider carefully, times of economic fluctuations often provide ideal opportunities for airplane purchases. What factors make economic downturns a good time to invest in airplanes?

A reduction in demand

Many people let negativity or uncertainty deter them from making big financial moves. The same factors that leave one buyer anxious about making an investment may inspire numerous others to delay large transactions. As a result, demand for used airplanes may decline significantly. Sellers may have to make price adjustments and more concessions to buyers because of reduced demand.

The professionals working at lending institutions may also feel highly incentivized to work with those in need of credit for large purchases, as an organization may have seen a drop in new loans recently. Many financial professionals receive a base salary and then additional compensation based on the number of loans they assist customers with and the size of those loans. Buyers can sometimes negotiate competitive prices and affordable financing because of decreased market demand.

An increase in supply

Economic uncertainty doesn’t just prompt people to hold off on big financial decisions. It can also trigger the liquidation of unnecessary assets. Struggling businesses and people who experience a drop in income may attempt to sell assets to generate revenue or decrease ongoing financial obligations.

Buyers may find that there are more airplanes for sale because of the current economic conditions and that sellers are eager to close as quickly as possible. They might even become more flexible about the final price because of their desire to eliminate payments or obtain the proceeds from the sale.

Keeping a close eye on the market and having support on hand when an opportunity arises are important for those trying to navigate an airplane purchase. With the right timing, support and approach to the process, acquiring an airplane can be an achievable goal even during times of economic contraction.