2022 was a record year for the number of aircraft transactions successfully completed by the Newcastle upon Tyne, UK-based aviation business Moon Jet Group (MJG).

Founder James Moon says: “This is a great achievement for Moon Jet Group and for all those involved in our business. 2022 has been challenging to operate in given the overall market conditions for the aircraft sales sector, so to achieve a record year in such an environment is absolutely fantastic.

"Any aircraft type priced correctly and of good quality is receiving multiple offers very quickly still. We have dozens of great quality buyers looking for aircraft opportunities, so it is no surprise that when an aircraft is listed, the days on market for an aircraft are so low. There is a lot of talk about softening aircraft values, however I am yet to see it across the board. It is still very much a strong sellers market as inventory levels are extremely low and until that changes, the market conditions are remaining the same."

The aircraft trading company is also celebrating the fact that it is now the number one aircraft dealer in the UK with the greatest number of aircraft currently listed available for sale. The majority of its aircraft trading is with buyers and sellers across North America, followed closely by Asia.

Looking ahead to 2023, Moon is optimistic about what it holds: “It will be interesting to see what impact a recession might have on the number of buyers looking to buy an aircraft in 2023. I do expect aircraft values to soften and the current inflated asking prices to reduce slightly to a more normal level of pricing.

"We have seen success due to the high level of engagement that we strive to achieve with each aircraft owner and active buyer that we work with worldwide. Whether you are selling a $50m Gulfstream or helping a buyer purchase a King Air, no two transactions are ever the same and require unique expertise throughout. We have found that our clients just want someone who 'says it as it is' to them, and who can get the deal completed without any issues. Given our diverse experience, from turboprops to Boeing Business Jets, we have found that clients like dealing with our company because we do not just focus on, say, large jets for example. Our transactional volume allows us to gain vital aircraft trading experience across a wide variety of aircraft types, meaning we are suitably qualified to ensure a successful transaction."

Moon Jet Group was founded by serial aviation entrepreneur and pilot James Moon, to challenge and improve the way that aircraft were purchased and sold globally. Since it took off in 2015, the company has established relationships with over 600 private aircraft owners worldwide, working on aircraft transactions from light jets to BBJs, as well as providing aircraft type and fleet advisory solutions to aircraft operators and regional airlines.