By GARETT JERDE, CEO AND FOUNDER OF JETHQ

In private aviation, nothing compares to having the right aircraft, ready when and where you need it. While new jets often steal the spotlight with their latest features, for savvy investors, the true advantage lies in securing the right aircraft, the needed performance, with critical timing. That’s why many of today’s most discerning ultra-high-net-worth and corporate buyers choose pre-owned aircraft, often proving to be a sound investment.

With decades of experience and aircraft acquisitions completed across six continents, JetHQ is quickly becoming a recognised authority in global aircraft sales. Our clients don’t just rely on us to find an aircraft; they trust us to find the right aircraft, anywhere in the world. Here’s why the pre-owned market remains one of the smartest moves you can make.

GLOBAL VALUE, REALISED

New aircraft can depreciate in value by up to 20 per cent of their value in the first year, and as much as 40 per cent within five years, regardless of brand or model. By contrast, a pre-owned jet that has been expertly maintained often comes fully equipped with premium upgrades and program coverage, offering meaningful cost savings with no compromise in capability or prestige.

In rapidly growing aviation markets like India, where over 80 per cent of fixed-wing aircraft imports are pre-owned, buyers are proving that value, not novelty, drives intelligent decision-making.

FASTER TIME TO OPERATION

The wait time for new aircraft deliveries can stretch into years. But in business aviation, time is money. Pre-owned aircraft, especially those sourced through JetHQ’s global network, can be acquired and delivered in weeks, not years.

From first inquiry to final delivery, we manage every stage of the transaction: sourcing, inspections, legal contracting, and international logistics. With offices and partners across key global hubs, we ensure a smooth, expedited process wherever your aircraft is located.

VERIFIED PEDIGREE AND PROVEN PERFORMANCE

Every aircraft has a history, and we believe that history should work in your favor. Our acquisition team performs in-depth technical and operational due diligence, ensuring you have complete transparency into the aircraft’s condition, programme coverage (such as RRCC or ESP Gold), and service records. We know this is an investment and it should perform like one.

TURNKEY LUXURY OR TAILORED UPGRADES

While buying new gives you a blank canvas, many pre-owned jets already feature modern interiors and updated avionics. And if upgrades are desired, our network of world-class MRO and design partners ensures efficient, cost-effective enhancements, often at a fraction of what factory options might cost.

ACCESS TO GLOBAL INVENTORY AND OFF-MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

JetHQ operates on a truly global scale. We have access to hundreds of aircraft at any given time, many of which are exclusive and never reach public listings. Whether you’re looking for a specific range, configuration, or budget window, our international team connects you with exclusive inventory across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa.

When matching demand and supply, timing and relationships matter. We have built relationships in key markets and continue to grow our reach.

TAX AND DEPRECIATION BENEFITS IN STRATEGIC MARKETS

In India, the tax environment is particularly favorable for aviation investors. Aircraft benefit from 40 per cent annual depreciation under the Written Down Value (WDV) method, reducing taxable income and improving return on investment from year one. Combined with the lower capital outlay of a pre-owned aircraft, these incentives make private aviation more financially strategic than ever.

TOP AIRCRAFT IN DEMAND: INDIA AND BEYOND

India’s pre-owned aircraft market is maturing rapidly. Buyers are informed, pragmatic, and increasingly focused on value, support, and long-term ownership economics. Our clients in India prefer models that deliver performance, regional flexibility, and serviceability:

• King Air 200 series: Ideal for regional missions and secondary airports
• Cessna Citation CJ2+: Efficient, capable light jet with low operating costs
• Cessna Citation XLS+: Versatile midsize option with broad appeal
• Embraer Legacy 600/650: Long-range capability with generous cabin space

A STRATEGIC INVESTMENT WITH GLOBAL SUPPORT

Pre-owned aircraft are not compromises; they’re calculated investments. With JetHQ, your acquisition is powered by global expertise, real-time market data, and unmatched transactional support.

With the right advisory team, buying pre-owned means lower upfront investment, faster deployment, proven operational reliability, and tailored luxury, all backed by rigorous market intelligence and transactional expertise. Whether upgrading, building a fleet, or entering private aviation for the first time, our team will guide you locally and globally every step of the way.