Jetcraft optimistic about 2011 pre-owned business jet trading

Jetcraft Corporation, the aircraft broker, says it is optimistic that pre-owned business jet trading will continue to strengthen despite economic uncertainty.

At the EBACE convention the Jetcraft said it had sold 19 aircraft, worth $378 million, in the first four and a half months of the year. At the convention it forecast that 2011 would be its best year for sales.

“Fundamentally, Jetcraft’s market outlook remains unchanged – despite recent financial uncertainties in Europe and the US,” said Chad Anderson, president, Jetcraft Corporation. “

Anderson said that large cabin prices have stabilised with demand strong in Asia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and South America. He also said that demand is returning in North America, from both public companies and high-net-worth individuals.

“We believe that confidence in the business jet market is holding because the volume of transactions has remained quite stable,” said Jahid Fazal-Karim, co-owner and board member, Jetcraft Corporation. “Business jet purchasers are generally acquiring aircraft based on anticipated lift requirements six to 18 months from today. This trend illustrates continued confidence as globalization of business continues. The need for long range business jets – particularly in emerging markets – is here to stay. Furthermore, access to credit and financing has not been noticeably impacted by recent macroeconomic events.”