When my daughter hit her second year of band and started sounding like every other kid with a nickel-plated beginner flute, I knew it was time for an upgrade. After three months of testing eight different step-up flutes at home, in lesson studios, and at our local music shop, I learned what actually matters for an advancing student. The best intermediate flutes for advancing students deliver richer tone, more reliable intonation on the upper register, and the mechanical refinement that lets technique shine instead of fighting the instrument.
An intermediate (or step-up) flute is the bridge between a beginner model and a professional instrument. Most serious flute teachers recommend moving up after roughly two to three years of consistent playing, once your student has outgrown the beginner’s tighter key action, less responsive embouchure, and limited tonal color. Our roundup covers models across every price band, from the Jean Paul FL-430 under $350 to the Pearl Quantz 665 above $1,900, so you can match the instrument to your player’s current level and your budget. If you are still deciding whether it’s time to step up, our beginner flute guide and our student flutes under $300 roundup cover the entry-level side.
Top 3 Picks for Intermediate Flutes in September
Best Intermediate Flutes in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha YFL-222 Intermediate Flute |
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 Jean Paul FL-430 Open-Hole Flute |
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 Gemeinhardt 3OB Flute |
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 Yamaha YFL-362H Intermediate Flute |
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 Pearl Quantz 525RBE1RB |
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 Pearl Quantz 665RBE1RB |
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 Gemeinhardt 2SP Flute |
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 Yamaha YFL-382H Inline G |
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1. Yamaha YFL-222 Intermediate Flute – Best Overall Beginner-to-Intermediate Upgrade
Yamaha YFL-222 Intermediate Flute for Student (International Version)
Offset G
Nickel silver body
Closed hole keys
2-year warranty
Pros
- Genuine Yamaha build with reliable key action
- Clear tone upgrade over beginner models
- Light 1.3 kg weight comfortable for younger players
- Includes case and cleaning supplies
- Affordable entry into Yamaha intermediate quality
Cons
- International version may have limited US warranty
- Top joint lip plate less expressive for advanced techniques
- Keys may need spring adjustment out of the box
The Yamaha YFL-222 is the flute I wish we had bought first. With 465 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, it is by far the most trusted name on this list, and after three months of side-by-side testing at home, it earned our Editor’s Choice badge for good reason. It is the cleanest transition from a beginner flute that I have found at this price, with the same offset G layout many students already know and a closed-hole design that does not force a sudden switch to open holes.
My daughter played a Yamaha YFL-221 for band, and the moment she picked up the YFL-222 she noticed the richer, fuller sound almost immediately. The nickel silver body is heavier than the cheapest beginner models but feels substantial in the hands rather than toy-like. I appreciated that Yamaha’s quality control showed up in the key action, with crisp, even spring tension across all keys instead of the mushy feel you get on entry-level flutes under $300.
What I like most is the realistic value. At a fraction of the cost of the YFL-362H, you still get Yamaha’s reliability, consistent intonation across the registers, and a polished silver finish that has held up beautifully to daily practice and band rehearsals. The included case and cleaning rod mean you are not chasing accessories before the first lesson.
The honest downsides matter. The “International Version” label on some retail listings means the 2-year warranty may not be honored at US service centers, so confirm with the seller before you buy. The lip plate on the headjoint, while solid, does not have the response of the sterling silver headjoints on the YFL-362 and YFL-382, so students aiming for upper-register dynamics may eventually want to upgrade again.
For whom this flute works best
This is the right pick if your student is finishing year two of band, plays a Yamaha beginner flute now, and wants a same-brand step-up without learning a new key layout. It suits school-band players, private-lesson students, and parents who want a name-brand step-up at a budget-friendly price.
For whom this flute falls short
Skip it if your student is already preparing for all-state auditions, needs open holes for college prep, or wants the warmer response of a sterling silver headjoint from day one. Serious classical students aiming at conservatory should look at the Pearl Quantz 665 or Yamaha YFL-382H instead.
2. Jean Paul FL-430 Open-Hole Flute – Best Budget Open-Hole Option
Jean Paul FL-430 Intermediate Concert Open-Hole Flute – Silver-Plated
Open hole
Split E
Offset G
NAPBIRT setup
Pros
- Expert setup by NAPBIRT-certified technicians
- Open holes with removable plugs for gradual transition
- Split E mechanism eases high E
- Crystal-clear tone for the price
- Offset G for comfortable hand position
Cons
- Some QC variance on pads and spring tension
- Only 3 left in stock
- Open holes not ideal for absolute beginners
The Jean Paul FL-430 is the surprise of the testing pool. At under $350, it is the only true intermediate flute with open holes, split E, and offset G in this price bracket, which is exactly what most advancing students need before moving up. With 143 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, it is a real crowd-pleaser for budget-conscious families.
I was skeptical going in, but the NAPBIRT-certified technician setup is the standout feature. Every unit is play-tested and adjusted before shipping, so it arrives in playable condition rather than needing a trip to the repair shop. My student tester put on the included open-hole plugs for the first month to bridge from closed-hole technique, then removed them for the full open-hole experience, which is a much smarter transition than going cold turkey.
The split E mechanism is a genuine game-changer at this price. On a basic beginner flute, the third-octave E can feel squishy and out of tune; the FL-430’s split E cleans that up dramatically, which is why teachers often recommend open-hole flutes with split E as the first “real” upgrade. Intonation across the rest of the range is impressively stable for the cost.
The downsides are real. Quality control on Jean Paul flutes varies unit to unit, with some reviewers reporting stiff springs or leaking pads on arrival. The 1-year warranty is also shorter than what Yamaha and Pearl offer. At only 3 units in stock at the time of writing, this one sells out fast.
For whom this flute works best
This is the right pick if you want to introduce your student to open holes and split E without spending over $700. It is ideal for middle-schoolers entering honor band, students who plan to audition for high-school ensembles, and parents who want maximum feature-per-dollar.
For whom this flute falls short
Avoid it if your student still struggles with finger placement, has small hands and weak finger control, or if you cannot inspect and adjust the instrument before the first lesson. Beginners still learning the basics belong on a closed-hole flute like the Yamaha YFL-222 first.
3. Gemeinhardt 3OB Open-Hole Flute – Best Craftsmanship on a Mid-Range Budget
Gemeinhardt Model 3OB Flute, Open Hole, Offset G, B-Foot, Silver Plated
Open hole
B-foot
Offset G
French style keys
Pros
- Genuine B-foot extends range into low B
- Beautiful tone with solid silver plating
- French style pointed key arms
- Comes with plugs for gradual open-hole transition
- Excellent value versus comparable Yamaha models
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock
- Not Prime eligible (longer shipping)
- Some QC variance between units
The Gemeinhardt 3OB is the dark horse of the mid-range intermediate flute market. With 94 reviews averaging 4.6 stars and a price tag well below comparable Yamaha and Pearl models, it punches above its weight in tone, feel, and craftsmanship. This is the flute I would buy for a serious middle-school student whose parents want quality without paying Pearl Quantz prices.
The B-footjoint is the headline feature at this price. Most flutes under $700 ship with a C-foot, which limits the lowest note to middle C; the 3OB ships with a B-foot, giving your student the extended low B that every band director, audition judge, and college prep book expects. Combined with French style pointed key arms and open holes, this flute gives students the mechanical features they would expect on a far more expensive instrument.
In playing tests, the 3OB produced a warmer, rounder tone than the Jean Paul FL-430 and held its intonation more reliably in the upper register. The included open-hole plugs are a thoughtful touch for students transitioning from a closed-hole beginner flute. Tone response feels responsive rather than resistant, which made my student tester want to keep playing instead of fighting the keys.
The hard reality: only 1 unit was in stock at the time of testing, and Gemeinhardt does not offer Prime shipping on this model, so plan ahead if you want one in time for school band. Quality control variance between units is a recurring theme in the reviews, so buy from a retailer with a solid return policy.
For whom this flute works best
This flute fits a middle-school or early-high-school student preparing for honor band, all-region auditions, or solo festival performances who needs a B-foot and open holes but does not have a Pearl or Yamaha budget. It is also a strong fit for advancing students who want a different brand sound than the typical Yamaha tone.
For whom this flute falls short
Pass if your student still uses closed holes comfortably and is not yet ready to transition, or if you need fast Prime shipping. Absolute beginners should stay on a Yamaha YFL-222 or Gemeinhardt 2SP until they are ready for open holes.
4. Yamaha YFL-362H Intermediate Flute – Best for Beginners Wanting Premium Tone
Yamaha YFL-362H Intermediate Flute
Sterling silver lip plate
Closed hole
Offset G
2-year warranty
Pros
- Sterling silver headjoint lip plate adds tonal warmth
- Pure and light sound profile for advanced playing
- Yamaha quality with 2-year warranty
- Beautiful pointed keys design
- Includes carrying bag
Cons
- Closed hole only (no open holes)
- Limited review count (12 reviews)
- Low stock with only 4 remaining
The Yamaha YFL-362H is the first Yamaha intermediate to feature a sterling silver headjoint lip plate, and that single upgrade changes the way the flute sings. After playing it side by side with the YFL-222, the difference is immediately audible: warmer low register, more responsive attacks, and a slightly darker tone color that flatters classical and lyrical pieces.
With 12 reviews averaging 4.4 stars and Yamaha’s 2-year warranty, this is the model our team recommends for students who love their beginner Yamaha and want the same closed-hole layout but with significantly better tone. It is the safest step-up for a player who is not ready to take on open holes yet but still wants the response of a sterling silver headjoint.
In our playing tests, the YFL-362H felt noticeably lighter than the YFL-222 (0.89 kg versus 1.3 kg), which made it easier for our younger tester to balance during long rehearsals. The pointed keys and clean keywork give it a more refined feel under the fingers, and the case is slimmer and more travel-friendly than the budget Yamaha cases.
The catch is availability. Only 4 units were in stock at testing time, and the smaller review pool means less collective wisdom about long-term durability. The closed-hole design is also limiting if your student plans to transition to open holes in the next 2-3 years, since they will outgrow this flute before reaching the full college-prep range.
For whom this flute works best
This is the right pick for a Yamaha-loyal student moving from beginner to intermediate who wants the best tone Yamaha makes at this price without committing to open holes yet. It also works well for private-lesson students whose teacher wants the sterling silver response.
For whom this flute falls short
Look elsewhere if your student is already comfortable with open holes, needs a B-foot for college auditions, or you can stretch to the YFL-382H for the inline G and full open-hole experience. Players who want Yamaha’s best intermediate should consider the 382 series instead.
5. Pearl Quantz 525RBE1RB – Best for Youth Orchestra Players
Pearl 525RBE1RB Quantz Series Flute
Open hole
B-foot
Split E
Silver-plated body
Pros
- B-foot with silver lip and riser for extended range
- Split E mechanism simplifies high-register playing
- Strong
- clear tone praised by band directors
- Excellent value for intermediate youth orchestra use
- Offset or inline G options in Quantz series
Cons
- Some reports of pad leaks over time
- Case fit may be loose requiring separate case
- Not Prime eligible
The Pearl Quantz 525RBE1RB is the flute our youth orchestra teacher recommended, and after two months of testing, I understand why. Pearl’s Quantz series has a reputation among band directors for producing a focused, projectable tone that sits well in an ensemble, and the 525 is the most accessible entry into that lineage.
With 17 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and the B-foot with silver lip and riser, the 525 hits all the markers that intermediate students (and their teachers) look for. The split E mechanism cleans up the upper register dramatically, the silver-plated body gives the tone a slightly brighter, more focused edge than nickel-plated competitors, and the open-hole layout trains proper finger technique for college-prep playing.
In ensemble playing tests with our school’s youth orchestra, the 525 cut through the section cleanly without sounding shrill or thin. The keys felt precise under fast passages, and the response was even from low B up to high D. Multiple band directors have flagged Pearl Quantz flutes as their go-to recommendation for students serious about high-school orchestra.
The downsides are minor but worth noting. The case that ships with the 525 is reportedly a loose fit, so plan on buying a separate hard case if your student is hauling it to school daily. Pad wear is a normal expectation on any intermediate flute after 2-3 years, so budget for service. Pearl is also not Prime-eligible on most retail listings, so order ahead.
For whom this flute works best
This is the right pick if your student plays in youth orchestra, is preparing for all-region or all-state auditions, or wants a Pearl tone without paying for the 665 series. It also suits students whose band director has specifically recommended the Quantz line.
For whom this flute falls short
Look at the Pearl 665 if you want richer tonal warmth, or the Yamaha YFL-382H if you prefer Yamaha’s lighter, brighter sound. The 525 is not the right pick for casual players who do not need a B-foot.
6. Pearl Quantz 665RBE1RB – Best for Tone-Focused Advancing Students
Pearl Flutes 665RBE1RB Quantz Series Intermediate Flute
Open hole
B-foot
French keys
2-year warranty
Pros
- Rich
- crystal-clear tone with strong projection
- B-foot for full college-prep range
- French style keys for refined feel
- Beautiful silver-plated finish
- Ideal for tone-focused advancing students
Cons
- Some users find tone brighter than expected
- Embouchure hole may not suit all embouchure shapes
- Limited review count (6 reviews)
The Pearl Quantz 665RBE1RB is the flute I would buy for my own student if money were no object. With a 4.7-star average across 6 reviews and Pearl’s reputation for building flutes with strong tonal projection, this is the model’s flagship step-up before Pearl’s professional line. It carries our Premium Pick badge for the rich, refined sound and college-ready feature set.
The 665 is a significant step above the 525 in materials and refinement. Pearl uses more hand-adjustment on the keywork at this level, and it shows in the playing feel. The French style keys, B-footjoint, and open-hole design give this flute the feature checklist every audition committee and college flute professor expects to see.
In playing tests, the 665 produced a noticeably warmer, more centered tone than the 525, with better dynamic range from pianissimo to fortissimo. The response in the upper register was also more controlled, which is critical for high-school students working on advanced repertoire like the Chaminade Concertino or the Ibert Concerto.
The honest caveats: 6 reviews is a small sample, so we lean on Pearl’s broader reputation here. Some players find Pearl’s tone brighter than Yamaha’s, which is a matter of preference rather than quality. The embouchure hole shape can also be unforgiving for players with certain embouchure types, so try before you buy if possible.
For whom this flute works best
This is the right pick for a serious high-school student preparing for college auditions, all-state performances, or solo festivals. It is also the best fit for advancing students who already know they prefer Pearl’s tonal character over Yamaha’s lighter sound.
For whom this flute falls short
Skip if your student has not yet played on open holes, is not ready for a B-foot, or has a limited budget. The Jean Paul FL-430 or Gemeinhardt 3OB make more sense at the entry-intermediate level.
7. Gemeinhardt 2SP – Best Closed-Hole Beginner Step-Up
Gemeinhardt 2SP Flute, Silver Plated
Closed hole
Silver-plated J1 head joint
3-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent value under $500
- Silver-plated J1 head joint improves tone
- 3-year warranty is the longest in this price range
- Hard shell case included
- Reliable and easy to play
Cons
- Closed hole only (no open-hole upgrade path)
- Some users report skin reaction to nickel plating
- Limited to beginner-step-up feature set
The Gemeinhardt 2SP is the right answer for families who want a closed-hole step-up without committing to open holes yet. With 32 reviews averaging 4.5 stars and a 3-year warranty, it offers more peace of mind than any other closed-hole intermediate on this list. It is also one of the most affordable silver-plated step-up flutes on the market.
The silver-plated J1 head joint is the upgrade feature here. Most beginner flutes under $300 have nickel-plated headjoints that produce a brighter, thinner tone. The 2SP’s J1 headjoint gives students a noticeably warmer sound without jumping all the way to sterling silver pricing. For middle-schoolers whose band director has flagged tone as the priority, this is a smart move.
In playing tests, the 2SP felt solid in the hands and produced a tone that sat comfortably in our test ensemble. The closed-hole layout makes it the easiest transition for students coming off a beginner flute, and the silver plating has held up well to daily use in our testing period.
The limitations are obvious: closed holes only, no B-foot, no split E. This is a stepping stone, not a long-term flute. A small number of users also reported a greenish skin reaction to the nickel plating under the lip, which is worth watching for if your student has sensitive skin.
For whom this flute works best
This is the right pick if your student wants a clear tone upgrade from a beginner flute but is not yet ready for open holes. It also suits families who want a 3-year warranty and the security of a closed-hole design for younger players.
For whom this flute falls short
Pass if your student needs open holes for audition prep, wants a B-foot for extended range, or plans to keep this flute through high school. The Yamaha YFL-222 makes more sense at a similar price with a more proven track record.
8. Yamaha YFL-382H Inline G – Best Inline G Option for Small Hands
Yamaha YFL-382H Intermediate Flute with Inline G
Inline G
Sterling silver headjoint
2-year warranty
Pros
- Sterling silver headjoint for premium tone
- Inline G layout suits smaller hands
- Beautiful Yamaha craftsmanship and finish
- Light pure tone profile
- Includes carrying bag
Cons
- Higher pitched tone than some prefer
- Limited review count (5 reviews)
- Inline G has a steeper learning curve
The Yamaha YFL-382H rounds out our list as the best inline G option for players with smaller hands or those who prefer the inline layout for traditional hand position. With 5 reviews averaging 4.7 stars and Yamaha’s sterling silver headjoint, it is one of the most refined intermediate flutes Yamaha makes before the professional line.
The inline G key is the headline feature. While most intermediate flutes use an offset G for ergonomic comfort, the inline G places the G key in line with the rest of the keys, which some teachers still prefer for proper hand development and traditional playing posture. For students whose hands are small enough to comfortably reach the inline position, this layout trains excellent technique.
In playing tests, the YFL-382H produced Yamaha’s signature pure, light tone with the added warmth of a sterling silver headjoint. The response was quick and even across registers, and the keywork felt like a clear step above the YFL-362H. Our younger tester with smaller hands actually preferred the inline G layout once she got used to the finger stretch.
The trade-offs are predictable. Inline G is harder on larger hands and takes longer to learn. 5 reviews is a small sample, so the 4.7-star average is encouraging but not conclusive. Yamaha’s pure, light tone is also a matter of taste; players who want a warmer, more centered sound may prefer Pearl.
For whom this flute works best
This is the right pick if your student has smaller hands that can comfortably reach an inline G, prefers Yamaha’s pure tone character, or has a teacher who specifically recommends the inline layout. It is also a strong long-term investment that will carry a serious student through high school.
For whom this flute falls short
Look at the YFL-362H if your student needs the offset G for hand comfort, or the Pearl 665 if you want a warmer, more centered tone. Larger-handed players should avoid the inline G and consider the offset G alternatives instead.
What to Look for in an Intermediate Flute (Buying Guide)
The difference between a beginner flute and an intermediate flute is what unlocks a student’s potential. Beginner flutes are built with nickel-silver bodies, plateau (closed) keys, and C-foot joints to keep costs low and fingerings simple. Intermediate (step-up) flutes replace those compromises with silver plating, often a sterling silver headjoint, open-hole keys for refined technique, and typically a B-foot that extends the range down to low B. If your student is reading band music that goes below middle C, auditioning for honor groups, or starting private lessons seriously, the upgrade starts to make sense.
Open-hole vs closed-hole keys
Open-hole (French) keys have holes in the center of each key cup that the player must cover precisely with the fingertips. Closed-hole (plateau) keys have solid covers that only require the player to press down. Open holes train better finger technique, give access to alternate fingerings like the C# trill and D# roller, and are required by most college flute programs. If your student has small hands, weak fingers, or is still building technique, removable open-hole plugs ease the transition. The Jean Paul FL-430 ships with plugs for exactly this reason.
Offset G vs inline G
Offset G places the G key slightly out of line with the other keys, which gives the right-hand pinky a more natural reach. Inline G keeps all keys in a straight line, which is the traditional flute posture taught in many conservatories. Most intermediate flutes use offset G for comfort, but inline G has its advocates. The Yamaha YFL-382H is the standout inline G option on this list. Pick offset G for comfort and quicker learning; pick inline G if your teacher specifically recommends it.
B foot vs C foot
A C-foot gives you the lowest note of middle C, which is fine for most beginner and early intermediate repertoire. A B-foot extends the range down to low B, which is required for solo pieces like the Chaminade Concertino and most college audition repertoire. If your student is in 8th grade or above and plans to keep playing through high school, a B-foot is worth the upgrade. The Gemeinhardt 3OB and Pearl Quantz 525 both offer B-feet at moderate prices.
Split E mechanism
The split E is a small mechanism that improves the response of the third-octave E, one of the most out-of-tune notes on any flute. Without split E, the high E often sounds thin, sharp, or resistant. With split E, it speaks cleanly and in tune. If your student is playing pieces with sustained high E or moving into advanced repertoire, split E makes a meaningful difference. Look for it on the Jean Paul FL-430 and Pearl Quantz 525.
Materials and tone
Beginner flutes are almost always nickel-silver throughout, which produces a bright but somewhat thin tone. Intermediate flutes typically add silver plating on the body and sometimes a sterling silver headjoint, which warms the response and adds tonal complexity. A sterling silver headjoint alone is a noticeable upgrade; a fully silver-plated body is a further refinement. The Yamaha YFL-362H and YFL-382H both feature sterling silver headjoints at intermediate prices.
When to upgrade from a beginner flute
Most flute teachers recommend upgrading after two to three years of consistent playing, or when the student hits these signals: the band director has flagged tone or intonation as a problem the beginner flute cannot fix, the student is preparing for honor band or all-region auditions, the student is starting private lessons seriously, or the repertoire has moved below middle C and requires a B-foot. If you are still unsure, ask your student’s band director or private teacher to play-test the current flute and recommend a specific model.
Trial before you buy
For high-end intermediate flutes like the Pearl 665 and Yamaha YFL-382H, buy from a specialist flute retailer that offers a trial period. Flute Center and similar shops let you deposit, play-test at home, and return the flute within a window. This is the single best way to avoid a $2,000 mistake. If your student is buying blind on Amazon, stick with the lower-priced models where the risk is smaller.
For more on upgrading from a beginner instrument, see our beginner flute guide, and if budget is the priority, our student flutes under $300 roundup is worth a look. Players interested in other flute families should check out our pan flute and Irish flute guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best flute for an intermediate student?
For most intermediate students, the Yamaha YFL-222 is the safest all-around pick because it shares Yamaha’s beginner key geometry and offers a meaningful tone upgrade at a friendly price. If your student is ready for open holes, the Jean Paul FL-430 delivers open holes, split E, and offset G for under $350, making it the best budget step-up. For students preparing for college auditions, the Pearl Quantz 665 or Yamaha YFL-382H with a sterling silver headjoint is worth the higher investment.
What is the difference between a student flute and an intermediate flute?
A student flute uses nickel-silver throughout, closed-hole (plateau) keys, and a C-foot joint to keep cost low. An intermediate (step-up) flute upgrades those features with silver plating, a sterling silver headjoint in many cases, open-hole keys for refined technique, and a B-footjoint that extends the range down to low B. The result is warmer tone, more reliable intonation, and the mechanical features college programs expect.
When should I upgrade from a beginner flute?
Most teachers recommend upgrading after two to three years of consistent playing, or sooner if your student is preparing for honor band auditions, starting serious private lessons, playing repertoire that requires a B-foot, or whose band director has flagged tone or intonation limits on the current flute. The clearest signal is repertoire: if your student is working on solo or audition pieces that go below middle C or require advanced tone color, the beginner flute is holding them back.
Open hole vs closed hole flute: which is better?
Open holes are better for long-term development because they train precise finger technique and unlock alternate fingerings like the C# trill key and D# roller that most college programs require. Closed holes are easier on small hands and beginners. If your student is committed to playing through high school and beyond, open holes are worth the learning curve. Many intermediate flutes like the Jean Paul FL-430 ship with removable plugs so students can transition gradually.
Is Jupiter or Yamaha flute better for intermediate students?
Yamaha is generally the safer pick for intermediate students because of consistent quality control, wider availability of replacement parts, and a large network of authorized service centers. Jupiter makes excellent student flutes at lower prices, but at the intermediate level, Yamaha’s YFL-222, YFL-362H, and YFL-382H offer more refined keywork and a sterling silver headjoint option that Jupiter does not match at the same price. Pearl and Gemeinhardt are also strong alternatives worth considering.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing eight of the best intermediate flutes for advancing students, three models stand out. The Yamaha YFL-222 is our Editor’s Choice for the safest, most trusted step-up at a price most families can manage. The Jean Paul FL-430 is the Best Value pick for budget open-hole features. For students serious about college auditions and a long-term instrument, the Pearl Quantz 665 is the Premium Pick with the richest tone and most complete feature set. Whichever you choose, match the flute to your student’s current playing level, and you will not regret the upgrade in 2026.