The past 60 days have been a whirlwind of chaos. Who is making money now in aviation?
- Tariffs disrupting international trade.
- DOGE and crypto markets swinging wildly.
- Layoffs hitting government employees.
- Ukraine tensions rattling economies.
For many, it feels like the world is on the brink of disaster. Panic spreads. Headlines scream calamity. Markets tumble.
But amid the chaos, some people thrive—those who understand that volatility creates opportunity.
Winners in Uncertainty: Stock Traders & Aviation Investors
Stock options traders are raking in profits right now. They see the fear of panic sellers and recognize opportunity when others cut and run.
But this mindset isn’t just for Wall Street. In aviation and aerospace, similar opportunities exist.
Where Aviation Leaders Are Making Money
- Private Aviation Boom
- With commercial airline uncertainty, private jet demand is skyrocketing. High-net-worth individuals and corporations are investing in charter services, jet management, and aircraft acquisitions.
- Companies like NetJets, VistaJet, and Flexjet are expanding aggressively.
- MRO & Aftermarket Services
- Airlines may slow new aircraft purchases, but they must keep existing fleets flying.
- Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) firms are thriving as demand for aircraft servicing remains high.
- Defense & Aerospace Growth
- Rising geopolitical tensions = more government defense spending.
- Military contracts for aircraft, drones, and technology are booming—benefiting companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman.
- http://www.vsecorp.comSupply Chain & Aircraft Parts
- Supply chain disruptions create big opportunities for alternative suppliers and agile manufacturers in the aerospace industry.
- Parts suppliers and logistics companies filling the gaps are cashing in.
Lessons from the Pros
Great investors and industry leaders don’t panic—they double down when others retreat.
They see the pessimists leaving money on the table and step in to seize the opportunity.
- Turn off the noise.
- Ignore the fear.
- Find your niche in the chaos.
Because in aviation, as in investing, those who adapt, profit.
About Craig Picken
Craig Picken is the Managing Partner of Craig Picken Executive Search, a retained search firm focused on elevating leadership in aviation and aerospace. Since 2008, he has completed more than 400 senior-level searches across MRO, manufacturing, and services, partnering with premier OEMs, operators, financial organizations, and private equity sponsors.
A former Naval Flight Officer with over 100 combat missions and 325 carrier landings, Craig brings a unique perspective as the only executive recruiter in the industry who has flown, sold, and led P&L in aviation. Beyond recruiting, he is a speaker, executive coach, and host of The Aerospace Executive Podcast, where he highlights leadership insights from across the industry.
