Q1 2026 Cirrus Market Update
Dear Fellow Cirrus Pilots,
As we kick off 2026, the Cirrus market is showing a level of strength and nuance that’s worth a closer look. Last year closed exactly as many expected, busy, competitive, and tax-driven, and the early indicators from Q1 suggest that momentum has carried forward more aggressively than some had anticipated.
Looking Back: A Busy Finish to 2025
Q4 2025 was exceptionally active across most Cirrus segments, largely driven by the return of 100% bonus depreciation. As we’ve seen historically, tax-motivated buyers re-entered the market decisively, absorbing inventory that had built through the middle of the year. Importantly, that demand was not limited to distressed or aggressively priced airplanes, well-equipped, desirable aircraft transacted quickly and with minimal discounting.
Segment Spotlight: A Tale of Two G6 Markets
The G6 Turbo market is now firmly supply-constrained. With fewer than 70 airplanes currently available, inventory sits at a historically low level. This tight supply is most pronounced among late-model, well-optioned aircraft, and it is providing real pricing support at the top end of the used market. Buyers are finding fewer substitutes, and sellers with premium airplanes are once again in a position of strength.
By contrast, the G6 SR20 segment remains challenged. Approximately 40 airplanes are currently on the market, representing roughly six months of supply at the current sales pace. Transaction velocity has been modest, and pricing remains under pressure. This is a segment where accurate pricing and thoughtful presentation are critical; optimistic sellers are finding themselves sidelined.
2026: A Strong Start, Not a Hangover
One of the more encouraging developments is what we haven’t seen so far in 2026. Despite the tax-driven surge in Q4, there has been no meaningful “bonus depreciation hangover.” Buyer engagement remains high, contracts are being written, and deal flow feels organic rather than artificially pulled forward.
At Aerista, our own activity supports this view. Our sales pipeline through the first two months of the year is trending nearly 2× higher than at this point last year, a signal that demand remains deep and broad-based across multiple Cirrus segments.
New Aircraft Stability and the Trickle-Down Effect
Cirrus’ modest feature and pricing changes for the 2026 model year (+$31k for an SR22T) should help stabilize values at the top of the market. In our experience, fewer model year changes on the new-aircraft side tends to reduce volatility in late-model used pricing, which in turn supports the broader pre-owned fleet. This dynamic should be a net positive for sellers throughout 2026.
External Factors: A More Supportive Backdrop
Looking ahead, several macro factors could further stimulate activity:
- Interest Rates: While aviation lending rates remain elevated relative to historical norms, expectations for gradual rate reductions persist. Even modest declines could re-activate financed buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines, or paying cash reluctantly.
- Insurance: New entrants into the Cirrus insurance market, including a direct insurer, has increased competition, resulting in downward pressure on insurance rates.
- Confidence: The aircraft market generally seems more tolerant of external volatility than in recent years, thus buyers appear increasingly comfortable making long-term ownership decisions.
Bottom Line
The Cirrus market entering 2026 feels healthier than it has in some time. Tight supply in desirable segments, steady demand, and a supportive macro backdrop point toward a year of opportunity for buyers who act decisively and sellers who price realistically.
As always, broad market trends only tell part of the story. Individual airplanes, configurations, and seller strategies matter as much as ever. If you’re considering buying or selling in 2026, we’d welcome the opportunity to discuss how these dynamics apply to your specific situation.
Warm regards,
Chris Eichman
Steve Schwartz