Q4 Cirrus Market Update

Dear Fellow Cirrus Pilots,

In our last update, we raised a question: was the inventory build we were seeing in the spring a temporary lull, or the early stages of a broader softening? A quarter later, the transaction data gives us a reasonably clear answer. Demand held up.

Aerista closed 93 aircraft transactions in Q3 2026, up 12% from Q2 and our busiest quarter of the year so far. Year to date, we’ve closed more than 250 transactions, an 11% increase over the same period in 2025. Activity has continued to build through the first weeks of October.

That’s not to say the headwinds have gone away. Fuel prices remain elevated, financing costs are higher than many buyers would like, and there is a general sense of uncertainty in the broader economy. But so far, these pressures appear to be making buyers more careful rather than keeping them out of the market.

The Fourth Quarter Pattern

Q4 is reliably the busiest period of the year for aircraft transactions, and 2026 looks to be following that pattern. Last year, we closed 128 aircraft in the fourth quarter, nearly 40% more than any other quarter. Looking back over the past two and a half years, that seasonal pattern has held up regardless of broader market conditions.

Our partners in aviation lending, insurance, and escrow are seeing the same thing. Escrow companies are already asking brokers to help pace closings through the end of the year, which is a strong indicator of a busy market.

Pricing and Buyer Behavior

The core dynamic hasn’t changed: correctly priced airplanes sell, and mispriced airplanes sit. Buyers remain well informed and disciplined, and the aircraft moving most efficiently are those priced at fair market value and presented well, with complete logs and clean squawk lists.

Timing Matters

If you’re planning to buy or sell before December 31, it’s worth starting soon. Pre-buy inspections, logbook reviews, financing, and escrow all take time, and shop schedules tend to fill up quickly in November and December. As of this writing, there are roughly 39 FAA business days left in 2026, which goes by quickly once Thanksgiving and the holidays are factored in. (As always, check with your tax advisor about how year-end timing applies to your situation.)

Looking Ahead

The pre-owned Cirrus market continues to show resilience. Transaction activity is healthy, buyers are engaged, and the seasonal tailwind of Q4 is beginning to show. As always, the market rewards realistic pricing, strong presentation, and sellers who are prepared to move efficiently.

If you’re considering buying or selling a Cirrus this year, or simply want a current read on what your aircraft is worth, we’d welcome the chance to talk through your specific situation.

Best Regards,

Liz DeStaffany

Director of Citation and Phenom Sales

Cirrus SR Specialist