Owning a private jet is the ultimate luxury in private aviation. Imagine being able to soar wherever you want, whenever you want and on a moment’s notice. It all begins with a search for private jets for sale. 

But how does one buy a private aircraft? Here are four of the best places to find a private jet for sale. 

1. Through an Aircraft Dealer

Whether you’re buying your first or your fifth aircraft, it’s important to work with a dealer that you trust. The International Aircraft Dealers Association is a great place to start.

The only aircraft dealer accreditation program in the world, the IADA has a long list of reputable dealers. While most of the accredited dealers are based in the United States, the IADA also has dealers in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, South Africa, Mexico, Hong Kong and more.

The IADA’s global reach makes it easy to find a reputable dealer in your area.

2. At an Online Marketplace or Auction

Just as people sell vehicles and homes over the Internet, online marketplaces for private aircraft have rapidly grown in popularity. There are countless marketplaces on the web where dealers and private sellers list their aircraft for sale, including:

While virtual marketplaces have become the standard, there are still aircraft auctions for those looking for private jets for sale. While there are private sector auctions, there are also government-run auctions.

These include:

  • General Service Administration (GSA) auctions are a great place to find government-owned aircraft and parts and military equipment
  • U.S. Treasury auctions for aircraft forfeited by owners in violation of Treasury law
  • U.S. Marshals Service auctions for aircraft seized by the Department of Justice or other federal agencies

However, we recommend using online marketplaces for private jets and auctions only for those with a wealth of aviation knowledge and experience.

3. With Your Broker

Your jet broker likely does more than just offer on-demand jet charter services.

Before you start the search for a private jet for sale, reach out to your preferred broker for suggestions and lean on their experience and network. Depending on your broker, they may be able to connect you with a reputable dealer. Some brokers, like us at Stratos, even offer aircraft sales and acquisition services.

So, where is the best place to buy a private jet?

With so many auctions, websites and marketplaces to choose from, it can be difficult and time-consuming to find the right private jets for sale at the right prices. That’s where we come in. 

Since we opened our doors in 2006, we’ve worked with the best aircraft carriers and operators in the business. Our vast network built on strong relationships with industry leaders puts us in the perfect position to help you purchase a private jet.

Whether you’re selling an aircraft and need help reaching a vast pool of potential buyers or are looking to reap the benefits of owning your own aircraft, our team is here to help ensure a seamless transaction.

A private jet sits on the tarmac with the doors open against a backdrop of a beautiful summer sunset.

Luxury Private Jets for Sale: FAQs

Is it smart to buy a private jet?

It depends on you and your needs. Most private travelers will be better served by on-demand jet charters.

For businesses and individuals who fly often and need to have access to an aircraft on a moment’s notice, purchasing a private jet can be a wise decision.

According to Investopedia, the cost to purchase and maintain a private plane ranges from around $2 million to over $100 million, with maintenance and operating costs of up to $1 million every year. Due to the high costs associated with ownership, only those who make frequent use of private aviation should consider purchasing a private jet. 

Before you invest in a private jet, ask yourself how you will use it. Do you often fly alone or with a colleague within your state or region? Then you may be able to find small private jets for sale that meet your needs. If you fly across the country or the ocean, expect to spend more on long-range jets and your operating costs.

Regardless of the aircraft you choose to purchase, we can help you offset the cost of ownership by using your jet for charter flights. 

What is the cheapest private jet for sale?

If you’re hunting for a new private jet for sale, the Cirrus Vision Jet is one of the most affordable private jets on the market.

Selling for just over $2.5 million on average, the Vision Jet is a beautifully designed single-engine aircraft. A very light jet, it is capable of flying seven passengers just over 1,000 nautical miles—roughly the distance from New York City to Miami. This combination of comfort and performance makes the Cirrus Vision Jet a great option for businesses with frequent domestic flights.

If you’re looking for used private jets for sale, you may be able to find business jets from the 1970s for around $300,000. If you’re shopping used, do your due diligence and ensure all the aircraft has been well maintained. 

Is it easy to buy a private jet?

Like any major purchase, buying a private jet is often a lesson in patience. From understanding FAA regulations to studying the terminology and researching maintenance and operating costs, purchasing an aircraft is not a decision that is made lightly. 

When you are ready to search for a private jet for sale, reach out to our team to learn more about the aircraft acquisition process. We love putting our aviation experience to work to help you find the right aircraft for your needs and your budget.

Want to learn more about buying an aircraft or on-demand jet charters? Give us a call at (888)593-9066 to get started.