
Private aircraft travel offers luxury and convenience but comes with significant costs that vary widely based on factors such as aircraft type, flight duration, and additional fees. Chartering a jet typically ranges from $2,000 to $14,000 per flight hour, making it a more accessible option compared to purchasing a private jet, which can cost between $2 million and $100 million. Key cost considerations include fuel surcharges, landing fees, crew expenses, and potential hidden charges, all of which can substantially impact the total price. For frequent travelers, options like jet cards or fractional ownership may provide better value, while being flexible with booking times can lead to significant savings.


View all
In 2026, purchasing a private jet ranges from approximately $2 million for older very light jets to over $100 million for ultra-long-range models, with annual operating costs typically between $500,000 and $2 million. Buyers must consider not only the acquisition cost but also ongoing expenses such as crew salaries, maintenance, and insurance, which can significantly impact total ownership costs. For those flying less than 200 hours annually, chartering through platforms like Jettly may be more cost-effective than ownership, while frequent flyers may benefit from full or fractional ownership. Understanding the various costs and options available is crucial for making informed decisions about private jet travel.
View all
NetJets boasts a long-standing safety record, operating over 792 aircraft without a passenger fatality for more than five decades until a recent incident in June 2026. The company emphasizes safety through rigorous training, a structured Safety Management System, and certifications like ARGUS Platinum and IS-BAO Stage III, alongside a culture that encourages reporting safety concerns. However, recent disputes with the NetJets Association of Shared Aircraft Pilots have raised questions about maintenance documentation and fatigue management, highlighting the importance of maintaining a transparent safety culture. Travelers can also consider alternatives like Jettly, which connects clients with vetted operators that meet similar safety standards while offering flexibility and cost transparency.
View all
Executive Jet Management (EJM) and NetJets provide comprehensive management and operational support for privately owned aircraft, focusing on services like crew hiring, maintenance, and regulatory compliance, while also offering fractional ownership options. EJM operates over 230 aircraft globally and conducts more than 41,500 flights annually, allowing owners to offset costs by chartering their jets when not in use. In contrast, Jettly offers a flexible on-demand charter service with access to over 20,000 aircraft worldwide, catering to travelers who prefer not to commit to ownership. The choice between these options depends on flight frequency, budget, and specific travel needs, with Jettly often being more cost-effective for those flying fewer than 150 hours per year.
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.
Explore our latest articles and updates.

5
min read
Entry Level Private Jet: Smart Ways to Start Flying Private with Jettly
Entry-level private jets, particularly very light jets (VLJs), provide an accessible option for travelers seeking the benefits of private aviation, such as time savings, flexibility, and privacy, without the high costs associated with larger jets or ownership. Jettly offers a digital marketplace for chartering these jets, allowing users to compare options, access smaller airports, and enjoy lower hourly rates, typically starting in the low four figures. Popular models include the Embraer Phenom 100, Cessna Citation Mustang, and Cirrus Vision Jet, each catering to different passenger needs and trip lengths. With no long-term commitments required, Jettly simplifies the booking process, making private flying more attainable for business and leisure travelers alike.
Read More
5
min read
Luxury Private Jets for Sale: Aircraft, Costs, and Smarter Alternatives with Jettly
Demand for luxury private jets has increased significantly since 2020, driven by health-conscious travelers seeking privacy and executives prioritizing time efficiency. Prices for jets range from $2.4 million for smaller models to over $400 million for fully customized aircraft, with ownership typically making sense for those flying 200-400+ hours annually. Many buyers are now considering charter options through platforms like Jettly, which offer access to a wide range of jets without the capital investment of ownership. Key considerations for potential buyers include aircraft type, operating costs, and the benefits of chartering versus owning.
Read MoreJoin our community and receive the latest blog updates directly in your inbox.
MEMBERSHIPS AND ASSOCIATIONS