Q1 2026 Diamond Aircraft Market Update
Now that we are a solid distance from the holiday season, we have a chance to step back and look at what the Diamond pre-owned aircraft market is actually doing; not just what listings suggest, but what we’re seeing play out in real conversations with buyers and sellers, during pre-buys, and at the negotiation table.
The short version: the market has cooled from the post-pandemic surge, but it isn’t weak. It’s become more balanced, more rational, and more predictable, and that’s not a bad thing.
Inventory is higher than it was a few years ago, buyers are more selective, and Diamond singles and light twins are taking longer to sell than they did in 2021–2022. That said, demand is still there. The difference is that buyers are no longer rushing.
A More Measured Market
Throughout the back half of 2025 and into early 2026, general aviation has clearly shifted into a more normalized environment. The days of immediate offers and bidding wars are well behind us. Instead, buyers are taking their time, doing deeper due diligence, and expecting pricing to reflect today’s realities.
From our perspective at Aerista, the pre-owned Diamond market reflects this shift almost perfectly:
- Listings are staying active longer
- Buyers want clean logs, fresh annuals, and realistic pricing
- Aircraft that are well-equipped and well-presented still move, just not overnight
New Aircraft Activity Still Supports the Brand
One important thing we continue to see is strong momentum on the new-aircraft side, particularly with DA40 NGs and DA42s going to flight schools and training organizations. Multi-aircraft orders are still happening, and that matters more than most people realize.
Healthy OEM activity keeps the Diamond brand relevant, reinforces confidence in long-term support, and helps stabilize resale values across the used fleet. Even as the used market slows, factory demand puts a floor under values.
Pre-owned Market Dynamics We’re Seeing Firsthand
Inventory & Time on Market
Diamond listings are spending more time on the market than they did a few years ago. That’s not due to lack of interest, it’s a function of more inventory and more cautious buyers. What we’re seeing consistently is that sellers who price realistically and present their aircraft well still get deals done. Those who hold onto peak-market expectations tend to sit.
Current Asking Ranges (General Market View)
Based on active listings and recent transactions we’ve been involved with, here’s where the market broadly sits entering 2026:
Where a specific aircraft lands within these ranges depends heavily on engine status, avionics, maintenance recency, and overall pedigree. The airplanes that perform best are consistently the ones with fresh annuals, modern panels, and complete log histories.
DA40
The DA40 remains one of the most respected modern trainers and owner-flown aircraft available. That said, buyer expectations are high. Aircraft priced correctly still move, but those with deferred maintenance or dated avionics tend to linger.
DA42
Demand remains steady, largely driven by training organizations and multi-engine operators. Buyers are careful here, pre-buys are thorough, and engine planning is a central part of every negotiation.
DA50 RG
These remain relatively scarce, which continues to support pricing. Most buyers compare used DA50s directly against factory delivery timelines, helping keep values firm when the aircraft is clean and well-positioned.
DA62
The DA62 continues to attract private owners, business operators, and special-mission users. Clean, low-time examples hold their value well, even though time on market has increased compared to recent years.
Overall Sentiment Entering 2026
From where we sit, the Diamond market feels stable and predictable. It’s no longer overheated, but it’s far from soft. Buyers appreciate the clarity, and sellers who align with current market conditions are still achieving strong results.
Takeaways for Sellers
- Longer listing times are normal in today’s market
- Pricing needs to reflect current data, not 2021 peaks
- Presentation matters more than ever – cosmetics, logs, and maintenance timing directly affect value
- Buyers are informed and thorough; expect detailed due diligence
Takeaways for Buyers
- A balanced market means more choice and less urgency
- Pricing stability makes this a strategic time to buy
- Well-maintained aircraft still move quickly, especially late-model DA42s and DA62s
Final Thoughts
Early 2026 finds the Diamond Aircraft market in a healthy, mature place. While the pace has slowed, long-term demand, particularly from training organizations and high-utilization operators, remains strong. With realistic pricing and proper preparation, sellers can still achieve solid outcomes, and buyers are benefiting from one of the most balanced Diamond markets we’ve seen in years.
Warm Regards,