
Owning an aircraft in 2026 involves significant costs beyond the initial purchase price, including ongoing expenses such as hangar fees, insurance, fuel, and maintenance, which can total 15-25% of the aircraft's value annually. Fixed costs are incurred regardless of usage, while variable costs depend on flight hours, making ownership financially viable primarily for those flying over 200-250 hours per year for turboprops and jets, and 100-150 hours for piston aircraft. For those flying less frequently, chartering through platforms like Jettly often proves more economical, eliminating fixed ownership costs and offering access to a wide range of aircraft. A thorough understanding of all cost layers—acquisition, fixed, variable, and long-term expenses—is essential for prospective buyers to make informed decisions about aircraft ownership versus charter options.


View all
Flexjet and NetJets are the two leading companies in fractional jet ownership, each catering to different customer profiles with distinct fleet sizes, service styles, and costs. NetJets operates a larger fleet of over 800 aircraft, offering a standardized experience ideal for corporate clients, while Flexjet focuses on a boutique approach with around 300 aircraft, emphasizing personalized service and customization. For occasional flyers or those with variable schedules, on-demand charter services like Jettly provide a flexible alternative with no long-term commitments or upfront capital, allowing users to pay per trip and choose from a vast inventory of over 20,000 aircraft. Ultimately, the choice between fractional ownership and on-demand charter hinges on flying frequency, budget, and the need for flexibility.
View all
NetJets offers competitive pilot compensation, with first officers earning between $129,000 and $210,000 and captains making $250,000 to over $400,000 depending on experience and schedule. The company emphasizes quality of life through flexible rotation schedules, extensive home base options, and strong benefits, including a 401(k) with a 64% employer match and fully paid health insurance. NetJets is seen as a long-term career destination rather than a stepping stone, attracting pilots with its unique flying missions and financial stability backed by Berkshire Hathaway. Overall, the compensation and benefits package positions NetJets pilots favorably within the private aviation market, enhancing safety and service quality for travelers.
View all
NetJets is a leading private aviation operator, not a commercial airline, offering fractional ownership, leasing, and jet card programs with a fleet of over 800 private jets. It caters primarily to frequent flyers and corporate executives, providing guaranteed access and reliability, while platforms like Jettly focus on on-demand charter services with flexible booking and no long-term commitments. NetJets' structured programs are ideal for those flying 100+ hours annually, whereas Jettly appeals to occasional travelers seeking instant quotes and broader aircraft options. Ultimately, the choice between NetJets and Jettly depends on individual travel patterns, budget, and desired flexibility.
View all
The Piper Aerostar is a high-performance piston twin-engine aircraft known for its impressive speed, with cruise speeds ranging from 220 to 285 knots depending on the model. Designed by Ted Smith in the 1960s, it set multiple speed records and remains a respected option for fast cross-country flights, although its demanding handling characteristics require skilled piloting. While the Aerostar excels in speed, modern travelers often prefer chartering turboprops or jets that offer greater cabin comfort and operational simplicity, as these aircraft can match or exceed the Aerostar's performance. Understanding the Aerostar's capabilities provides valuable context for evaluating private aviation options today.
View all
The Piper Cheyenne PA-31T is a versatile turboprop aircraft, ideal for private charter travel, offering a balance of speed, range, and cost-effectiveness. It typically seats 6-8 passengers and is powered by reliable Pratt & Whitney PT6A engines, making it suitable for regional business trips, family travel, and medical transport. Charter rates for the Cheyenne are generally lower than those for light jets, especially for flights between 300-700 nautical miles. Jettly's platform allows users to easily compare Cheyenne options with other aircraft, providing transparent pricing and access to vetted operators for a seamless booking experience.
View all
The Piper PA-31 Navajo is a versatile family of twin-engine piston aircraft widely used for regional private and charter flights since the late 1960s, offering various models like the PA-31-310, PA-31-325, and PA-31-350 Chieftain. These aircraft accommodate 6 to 10 passengers and are known for their cost-effectiveness, lower operating costs compared to jets, and ability to access shorter runways. Jettly provides a platform for travelers to compare and book these aircraft, highlighting their strong performance for short-haul missions and flexibility for diverse travel needs. Overall, the PA-31 remains a reliable choice for business trips and family travel, balancing affordability with comfort and accessibility.
Explore our latest articles and updates.
5 minutes
min read
Large Private Jets: Models, Cost & Ownership Guide
Large private jets offer unmatched luxury, comfort, and convenience, making them the preferred choice for high-net-worth individuals and business executives. With the ability to access smaller airports and avoid the hassles of commercial travel, these aircraft save valuable time and maximize efficiency. Despite the significant investment, the benefits of privacy, flexibility, and superior performance make them an enticing option. Ultimately, large private jets redefine air travel, offering a truly exceptional and personalized flying experience.
Read More.avif)
5 minutes
min read
Luxe Fall Getaways: Unveiling Top Luxury Travel Destinations and Trends
This fall, private jet travelers are favoring luxury destinations that offer a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences, with top spots including Aspen, Napa Valley, Paris, and Kyoto. Jettly's booking data reveals a growing interest in unique, wellness-oriented experiences, particularly in destinations like the Canadian Rockies and Japan. Solo travelers account for 20% of bookings, while families and small groups make up 55%, with 35% of trips being last-minute bookings. The average trip lasts 4.5 days, and there's an increasing demand for multi-destination and wellness-focused travel.
Read MoreJoin our community and receive the latest blog updates directly in your inbox.
MEMBERSHIPS AND ASSOCIATIONS