Stats from above #17

New year, new Stats from Above! In this series, we break down the latest business aviation trends—top destinations, busiest routes, leading airports, and the most popular jets.

First, a quick apology—we know it’s been awhile (August, to be exact). Let’s just say life happens, but we’re back and ready to dive into the numbers again!

This edition looks at travel trends from January. If you’re curious about what was happening last summer, check out our August Stats from Above for a trip down memory lane.

Stats from Above

Let’s zoom in on the statistics provided by our partners at the EBAA for January. The year is just getting started—slow at first, but picking up momentum, like a jet taxiing before takeoff. A total of 949 airports handled 47,954 arriving flights, which isn’t too surprising for the start of the year as things gradually take off again.

The beginning of the year saw as lower pace in air travel, with the number of active airplanes reaching 4,269 in January. Turboprops led with 11,916 arriving flights, followed by Light Jets with 8,243, and Super Light Jets in third place with 6,117 arrivals. The winter season contributed to this quieter start.

Busiest airports and routes

In January, we saw a shift in the standings for the busiest airports. Paris Le Bourget took the top spot with 1,998 arriving flights, followed closely by Geneva Cointrin International airport with 1,326 arrivals. Zurich Airport made a strong appearance in third place with 1,121 arriving flights, replacing Farnborough, London from the end of 2024.

Paris Le Bourget and Geneva Cointrin are usually among the busiest airports, but Zurich saw a notable rise in January, securing third place for arrivals. The city, known for its stunning alpine views, luxury accommodations, and excellent shopping, is a favorite destination for both leisure and business travelers.

What contributed to Zurich’s jump in the rankings this January? One major factor is its proximity to Davos, where the annual World Economic Forum takes place. Held every January, this high-profile event attracts global leaders from the worlds of politics, business, and culture, significantly increasing air traffic to Zurich as attendees fly in and out of the city.

Zurich’s rise in the rankings reflects the significant impact of such influential events, drawing a substantial number of travelers during this time of year.

Jet of the Month – Dassault Falcon 2000S

Previously, we featured the Falcon 7X, and this time, we’re turning our attention to another exceptional Dassault aircraft—the Falcon 2000S. This model is a refined version of theFalcon 2000 series, designed to offer enhanced efficiency and performance. With its optimized wing design, improved engines, and advanced avionics, the Falcon 2000S delivers impressive range and fuel efficiency, making it a compelling choice for operators seeking a cost-effective yet capable large-cabin jet.

Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW308C engines, the Falcon 2000S reaches a top cruise speed of Mach 0.86 with a range of 3,350 nautical miles (6,200 km)—perfect for routes like Vienna to Dubai. Its advanced aerodynamics allow access to shorter runways, increasing its flexibility.

Inside, the spacious and quiet cabin typically seats 8 to 10 passengers in plush club seating and conference-style arrangements. Designed for maximum comfort, it features high-end finishes, advanced soundproofing, and state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring a luxurious travel experience.

For those seeking a balance of performance and value, pre-owned Falcon 2000S jets present an attractive opportunity, with current asking prices ranging from approximately $15–20 million. Combining fuel efficiency, reliability, and the comfort of a large-cabin jet, the 2000S remains a smart investment for buyers looking to enter the world of Dassault aviation with style and confidence.

Looking for a Dassault Falcon 2000S? We currently have a 2014 model available for sale! Check it out here: 2014 Dassault Falcon 2000S for Sale.