Analysis by Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) shows that nearly half — 32 out of 70 — of the world’s wealthiest female billionaires are based in the US, with a total net worth of more than $514bn.

However, its analysis also revealed that just 14% – or 70 – of the wealthiest 500 billionaires globally are women, and their total wealth accounts for 12% of the $7.72tr held by the top 500 billionaires around the world.

Of the 70 wealthiest female billionaires globally, the 32 based in the US are worth an average of $16.07bn each, compared to $13.52bn for the 38 based elsewhere, the ACJ analysis shows.

Billionaire women globally are most likely to have made their money in either media and telecoms or the food and beverage industry, accounting for 25% of the 70 wealthiest female billionaires. Another 20% are in the industrial and retail sectors. 

ACJ’s analysis shows that between January 1 and April 25, 2022, 38% of the 70 wealthiest billionaires saw their net wealth increase, but the total wealth of this group fell by $60.28bn.

Seven of the 10 wealthiest women worldwide are based in the US, where the business aviation market is experiencing a solid recovery. There were just over 2m business aircraft departures in the first six months of this year, which was 15% higher than the same period in 2019, before the pandemic.

Sean McGeough, vice president, commercial ACJ, North America said: “Female billionaires are increasingly important to the global business aviation market, and many are based in the US. The business aviation market is enjoying strong growth in the US.”

McGeough continued: “For the sectors we are focused on – ultra-long-range and ‘Xtra Large’ business jets – billionaires are a key target. Our lineup of market-leading business aircraft, including the recently launched ACJ TwoTwenty, positions us well to capitalise on growth in these sectors. The ACJ TwoTwenty provides a competitive advantage to those companies seeking the best female entrepreneurs and executives who want their own space.”