The View from the Top
Amanda Applegate is a highly respected lawyer in a field most people rarely think about: private aircraft transactions. As a co-founder of Soar Aviation Law, she specializes in the dizzyingly complex process of buying and selling private jets. Her career
has seen her at the pinnacle of the industry, including a partnership at Aerlex Law Group and leadership roles at NetJets, the company that pioneered fractional jet ownership. Recently, Applegate noted a significant trend. Her firm's business surged by 25% in the first part of 2026, a direct ripple effect from massive liquidity events in the tech world. This isn't just about more clients; it's about a new type of client whose digital fortunes are translating into physical, high-flying assets.
From Tech IPOs to Taxiing Jets
The primary driver behind this boom is the immense wealth being generated by the tech sector, particularly from artificial intelligence and landmark Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). Events like SpaceX's massive IPO have created a new class of super-wealthy individuals—founders, early employees, and venture capitalists—with money to spend. For many, a private jet is one of the first and most significant purchases. The appeal is a powerful combination of efficiency, privacy, and control, allowing them to bypass the frustrations and delays of commercial travel. This influx of first-generation wealth from tech is reshaping the customer base, which is trending younger and more focused on the practical time-saving benefits of private aviation.
Why You Need a Lawyer to Buy a Plane
Buying a private jet is nothing like buying a car. The process is a legal and logistical minefield, which is why specialists like Applegate are in such high demand. A single transaction involves navigating international registration laws, complex tax implications that vary by state and country, FAA compliance, and arrangements for crewing, maintenance, and operation. A poorly structured deal can lead to millions in unexpected tax liabilities or regulatory penalties. Applegate and her team guide clients through this maze, handling everything from purchase agreements to ownership structures designed to maximize benefits and ensure compliance. This specialized expertise is crucial, especially for new buyers unfamiliar with the aviation world.
A Booming Market with High Stakes
The trend Applegate is seeing is backed by broader market data. The first half of 2026 has shown record-breaking activity in private aviation, particularly in the U.S. market, which dominates global traffic. Flights on shared-ownership programs and by private owners have seen double-digit growth compared to the previous year. This demand is creating a seller's market, with inventory for new and desirable pre-owned jets becoming scarce, driving up prices. While some might see a contradiction in this luxury boom amid news of tech layoffs, the reality is that the wealth driving the jet market is concentrated at the very top—the founders and key investors who are more insulated from economic headwinds than the general workforce.
