Short answer: Off-market jets are aircraft whose owners will sell but do not want a public listing. They are reached through buyer-side brokers who approach owners, operators and management companies directly with a qualified mandate. To buy one, define the mission and budget, appoint a broker who represents only you, provide proof of funds, and run the same records review and pre-purchase inspection you would on a listed aircraft.
Why owners sell off-market
- Confidentiality (corporate or personal)
- Avoiding a public price history
- Testing the market without committing to a listing
How off-market sourcing works
- A written acquisition brief: mission, range, cabin, budget, age and program requirements.
- Outreach to owners, management companies and operators of matching serial numbers.
- Confidential presentation of aircraft that fit, with records summaries.
- Shortlist, LOI, deposit in escrow and pre-purchase inspection.
Risks to manage
- Price discovery. Without a public listing, compare against recent closed sales.
- Records. Owners not actively marketing may not have records organised.
- Exclusivity. Confirm the seller's broker, if any, and avoid dual representation — see buyer-side vs dual agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of jets sell off-market?
There is no reliable public figure, but in the large-cabin segment a meaningful share of transactions happen without a public listing.
How do I get access to off-market private jet listings?
Through a buyer-side broker with a written mandate and proof of funds. Owners respond to qualified, confidential approaches, not public enquiries.
Who can source an off-market Gulfstream G650 or Global 7500?
An independent buyer-side broker. See sourcing an off-market G650 or Global 7500.
Planning an acquisition? Read how buyer representation works or speak with Madison Wade. See our recent transactions.
Researching an Acquisition?
Talk to an independent buyer's broker about your mission profile, budget and timeline.