Emerging Markets in Private Aviation

The United States is responsible for close to 65% of all private jet flights. Americans choose private jets due to their luxury and enhanced privacy, and a growing wealthy class comes with enhanced purchasing power. 

Those same factors are encouraging private jet adoption in other countries. In fact, China, India, and other countries are experiencing rapid economic development and a growing wealthy class. These people demand personalized travel solutions.

Quick Look: Top 5 Emerging Markets at a Glance

This table highlights some of the fastest-growing markets in the world right now, along with some reasons for their expansion:

region / country	primary driver	key hubs	2026 growth outlook
Southeast Asia	Tech & Manufacturing	Singapore (SIN), Bangkok (DMK)	High (Driven by intra-regional business)
Middle East	Government Investment (Vision 2030)	Dubai (DWC), Riyadh (RUH)	Very High (+9% flight activity YOY)
Latin America	Agribusiness & Oil	São Paulo (GRU), Mexico City (TLC)	Moderate/Stable (Fleet modernization focus)
India	Ultra-High-Net-Worth Growth	Mumbai (BOM), Delhi (DEL)	High (Infrastructure boom)
Africa	Resource Extraction & Tourism	Lagos (LOS), Nairobi (NBO)	Emerging (Long-range connectivity is key)

Key Emerging Markets & What’s Driving Growth 

While North America remains a dominant player in the private aviation market, several other regions are experiencing rapid growth. Understanding these markets, including their opportunities and challenges, can help you make a smart investment in your future. 

Southeast Asia: A Rising Hub of Business Aviation 

Southeast Asia is a diverse region that includes countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Brunei. Of all aviation markets, this one is demonstrating the most rapid growth and transformation. 

Operators say they experienced a 30% increase in flights between China and Vietnam between 2023 and 2024, and Malaysia and Thailand recorded 15% annual increases during this same time period. 

Growth factors include the following:

• Increasing corporate expansion across regions 
• Growing wealth 
• Uneven commercial airline services

A demand for luxury and convenience among the wealthy class spurs growth, but challenges can hamper progress. Infrastructure remains a challenge, and the regulatory environment makes building difficult.

Middle East: Luxury, Business & Strategic Positioning

This market was valued at $1.4 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow significantly during the next few years. 

Growth factors include the following:

• Concentration of high-net-worth individuals 
• High demand for business travel 
• Strategic position as a hub for intercontinental travel 
• High infrastructure investment

This environment is driving an increased acceptance of charter services, but potential hurdles like airport congestion, political volatility, and high competition could hamper growth. 

Latin America: Strong Growth Trajectory & Expanding Charter Market 

Experts say the Latin America market is expected to record the fastest regional growth in demand over the coming years. 

Growth factors include the following:

• Growth of the business class 
• Growing demand for corporate travel solutions 
• Poor connectivity between large airports 
• Demand for trips to far-flung locations

High-net-worth individuals demand comfort and convenience, and they often need to go to locations that aren’t serviced by standard airlines.

A growing interest in fractional ownership, jet cards, and charter services is meeting that demand. However, economic volatility, airport infrastructure challenges, and potential security concerns could limit growth.

India: Rapid Expansion, Corporate Demand & Growing Fleet 

India’s private jet fleet has grown significantly since 2019, and that growth is expected to continue in the years ahead. 

Growth factors include the following:

• Rapid economic development 
• Rise in demand for corporate travel to locations poorly served by airlines
• Increasing number of high-net-worth individuals

The demand for flexibility and time savings in a large, diverse country is leading to widespread adoption of private jet travel. Growth could be limited by similar factors. Building airports to serve such a large and rugged terrain could be challenging. 

With rising demand from both corporate and leisure travelers, India could become a major private aviation market, which could mean great opportunities for charter operators, brokers, and investors. 

Africa: Emerging Demand, Infrastructure Growth & Untapped Potential 

The Middle East and Africa business jet market size was $1.42 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $2.14 billion by 2030. 

Growth factors include the following:

• Increasing business activity 
• Resource and development sectors requiring flexible travel 
• Growing wealthy and upper-middle class populations
• Underserved aviation infrastructure in some areas

Private jets can offer flexibility, including flights across the country and to remote areas, bridging connectivity gaps that aren’t served by traditional airlines. High-net-worth individuals and corporate executives need help that jets can deliver. 

Growth could be limited by uneven infrastructure quality, regulatory complexities across countries, and safety concerns in some regions. 

What This Means for Charter Operators, Brokers & Investors

With global markets on the rise, charter brokers, operators, and investors could consider fleet expansions, opening regional hubs, and investing in infrastructure. Backed up by a solid marketing plan, these shifts could come with a big payoff. 

However, all markets come with risks, including regulatory uncertainties, infrastructure challenges, political instability, and more. It’s crucial for investors to work with a local research team and get to know the market intimately before taking the plunge. 

Growth in new markets isn’t uniform or certain. Success depends on local conditions, compliance, and understanding. Operators must approach their investments carefully, leaning on research and local expertise to guide them. A copy-paste model from mature markets just won’t work. 

Data Trends & Market Forecasts: Global Context & Emerging Market Share

North America is a major player in the business jet market, with growth depending on a corporate culture that rewards efficient time management. We expect this dominance to persist, but emerging markets provide excellent opportunities for savvy investors. 

Asia Pacific is expected to record the fastest CAGR, pushed ahead by rapid economic growth and an increasingly wealthy population.

But South America could have the fastest growth due to airport upgrades and economic diversification. And Singapore is experiencing steep growth in high-net-worth families, making this country a good bet for jets. 

Risks, Challenges & What to Watch 

Not all regions grow equally. As we’ve mentioned, every country on our list faces unique risks and growth challenges. They all may also experience unpredictable demand, especially if local conditions change. 

Private aviation growth potential must be viewed realistically. Not every country will produce high demand. High upfront and ongoing costs could hinder profits, and limited local expertise could make launches difficult. 

How Element Aviation Can Help You Explore Emerging Markets 

Element Aviation is your ideal global private-aviation partner for emerging markets. We can help you understand the conditions, handle the risks, and protect your safety. 

We offer market evaluations, charter logistics, operator network access, advisory services, and local support. Whether you’ve been in the business for decades or are just starting out, we can help. Contact us to find out more.