Florida and South America Outpace the Global Business Aviation Market

Florida and South America Outpace the Global Business Aviation Market

While global business aviation activity remained flat, two important source markets for Costa Rica recorded strong growth.

According to WINGX, business jet flights increased 14.2% year-over-year in South America and 9.5% in Florida during September 7–13, 2026. North American activity declined 1.5% during the same period.

Florida remains a natural gateway to Costa Rica, with significant private aviation activity at Opa-locka, Fort Lauderdale Executive, Palm Beach and Tampa. South America is also becoming increasingly relevant, particularly through operators based in Brazil and Colombia.

Leading operators by departures

Light jets remain North America’s highest-volume segment, recording 529,889 departures through September 13.

Among light-jet operators:

• NetJets: 74,835 departures, up 19.9% year-over-year.

• Flexjet: 31,340 departures, up 3.6%.

NetJets operated more than twice the light-jet departures of Flexjet, demonstrating the concentration of activity among the largest fractional and managed-fleet operators.

Ultra Long Range and midsize jet activity also increased 10.6% and 8.2%, respectively. These aircraft are particularly suitable for nonstop missions between Costa Rica and Florida, Texas, Colombia, Brazil and other regional markets.

For operators, a successful trip requires more than ramp assistance. Permits, fuel, customs and immigration coordination, passenger services, crew logistics, catering and executive transportation must work as one integrated service.

Aerologística ST provides ground handling and trip support at SJO, LIR and SYQ, coordinated through a single OCC. This nationwide coverage reduces complexity while maintaining consistent service throughout Costa Rica.

Florida and South America are growing faster than the wider market. The commercial opportunity is clear: develop direct relationships with leading operators and convert individual movements into long-term partnerships.