Stats from above #18

New month, 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.

This edition takes a deep dive into February’s travel patterns. From the busiest hubs to the most in-demand aircraft, we’ve got the numbers that matter. Want to see how things compared to January? Checkout our January Stats from Above for a month-to-month analysis.

Stats from Above

Let’s zoom in on the data provided by our partners at the EBAA for February. The year is just getting started—slow at first, but gradually picking up speed, much like a jet taxiing before takeoff. Despite being the shortest month, February saw 971 airports handle 47,580 arriving flights.This isn’t surprising as the year gains momentum, with people still enjoying ski trips and business activities ramping up after the post-holiday lull.

In February, the number of active airplanes reached 4,128. Turboprops led the way with 12,496 arriving flights, followed by Light Jets with 8,342, and Super Light Jets in third place with 6,165 arrivals. The lingering winter season contributed to this moderate pace.

Busiest airports and routes

In February, Paris Le Bourget retained the top spot with 1,899 arriving flights, followed by Geneva Cointrin International Airport with 1,195 arrivals. London Luton Airport secured third place with 987 arrivals, replacing Zurich Airport from the previous month.

This steady flow of air traffic marks the beginning of a more active business travel season. After a slowerJanuary, often impacted by the holiday period, February signals the return of bustling business routes.

Corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals who prefer private jets or chartered flights resumed their busy schedules. The post-holiday rush brought increased operations and meetings, especially in major hubs like Paris, Geneva, and London.

Though no extraordinary events drove the rise of these airports in February, the consistent return of business-related flights played a key role. This trend highlights the importance of these airports in connecting vital financial and political centers and reflects the steady growth in corporate travel as the year gains momentum.

Helicopter of the Month – Bell 429

This month, we’re doing something a little different. Instead of our usual Jet of the Month, we’re excited to feature the Helicopter of the Month—the Bell 429.

This shift highlights the incredible versatility and performance of the Bell 429, a twin-engine helicopter designed for a range of missions—from executive transport to emergency medical services. With its impressive speed, range, and cutting-edge features, the Bell 429 sets the standard for modern rotorcraft. Stay tuned as we explore what makes this helicopter a top choice for operators seeking both performance and luxury in the skies.

Inside, the spacious and quiet cabin comfortably seats 6 to 8 passengers, offering luxurious seating and customizable interiors. The Bell 429 is designed for a smooth and stable ride, ensuring a relaxing experience, whether you're conducting business or enjoying breathtaking aerial views. Advanced avionics and top-tier safety features provide reliability and confidence for operators in any situation.

With its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility, the Bell 429 is the perfect choice for those seeking a high-performing helicopter capable of handling a variety of missions. Pre-owned Bell 429s are available at various price points, but its outstanding performance, reliability, and adaptability make it a smart investment for operators in need of a versatile, luxury rotorcraft.

Looking for a Bell 429? We currently have a 2012 model available for sale! Check it out here: 2012 Bell 429 for Sale.