New Airbus commissioned reports highlight heightened role for business jets

Business aviation’s annual contribution to the US economy is expected to climb by over $50b within five years bringing the industry’s annual input to $183b. This is according to a study – one of two published on the eve of NBAA BACE – of US-based private jet financiers and brokers commissioned by Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ). With fewer than 500 of the 5,000 public-use airports in the USA currently served by commercial airlines, business aviation has become a key and often indispensable component of the country’s transportation system. Some 85% of survey respondents believe the significance of this role will continue to grow over the next five years. The ACJ study also reveals over 60% of financiers and brokers expect the sale of large business jets to increase over the next five years driven by a desire to upgrade from older to new-generation models – particularly high-end, large-cabin and midsize business jets. Airbus says these sectors “are increasing at a faster rate than other categories due to their range and capacity, and because OEMs are driving interest with the introduction of new models”. Between now and 2027, 84% of those surveyed believe the focus on top-end and midsize jets will increase. The second study from ACJ reveals 90% of senior executives at large corporations expect widespread availability and take-up of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will lead to an increase in US companies using private jets. Similarly, 90% of respondents expect SAF affordability will lead to an overall increase in the sale of business aircraft.<br/>