Signs Of Life

It’s been a rough few years for private aviation. The advent of GPS, moving map displays and so-called plastic airplanes in the 1990s brought with them renewed growth and interest. Much of that persisted, despite best efforts from national agencies concerned with security above all else, during the following decade. By 2007, signs of economic upheaval put a damper on flying activity. By the time 2008 and its sky-high aviation fuel prices rolled through, used personal aircraft were being sold at unheard-of low prices. Both trends flattened out in the years since, but fuel remains a significant operational expense and many used airframes aren’t worth what they were 15 years ago.

Key Takeaways:

• The private aviation sector has experienced significant challenges since 2007-2008, primarily due to economic downturns, high fuel prices, and a decrease in used aircraft values.
• Despite past difficulties, there are emerging signs of a recovery and innovation, including new diesel aircraft models, growth in the light-sport market, advancements in avionics, and AOPA's new pilot community program.
• The industry is expected to transform, moving towards more innovative, fuel-efficient, and carbon-conscious airframes and operating patterns, with electric aircraft and shorter recreational trips becoming more prominent.

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