Private Jet Charter Cost Calculator

A private jet flight is billed by the hour, so the overall cost will be the hours of flight multiplied by the cost per hour. For example, if you have a 3-hour flight at $3,500 per hour, the base fare for the flight will be $10,500. In addition to the base fee, for most flights you will also have to pay miscelaneous fees such as car rental, catering, landing fees, taxes, and other fees which will make the overall cost higher.

Primarily, there are four main factors that go into how private jet charter prices are calculated:

Before you start getting quotes on a private jet charter flight, let's look at the factors that influence the overall cost of a private jet charter. These factors include the type of aircraft, flight distance, time of travel, and additional services requested. 

There are various types of private jets to choose from, each with their own specifications and price range. The cost of your charter flight largely depends on the size and level of luxury you prefer. Turboprops or smaller jets, such as Very Light Jets (VLJs), offer a more economical option, whereas larger, more luxurious jets, like Heavy Jets, can cost significantly more. For instance, if you are to charter a Pilatus PC-12 it would cost less per hour than the Gulfstream G650.

When considering the cost of a private jet charter, the number of people on board significantly affects the overall price. As the number of passengers increases, the size and type of aircraft required also changes, leading to a higher cost.

Flight distance and time also play a significant role in determining the cost of your private jet charter. Longer flights typically require larger aircraft with higher fuel capacities, increasing the overall cost. Since you pay by the hour, you have to sometimes optimize for speed traveled or economics. A good charter broker will help you make an informed decision.

The time of your travel can also affect the cost of your private jet charter. Peak travel seasons and holidays may result in higher demand, leading to increased prices. Most private jet charter operators will help you avoid the dates that are peak season, so its best to have flexible travel plans by a day or two to help lower the cost of your trip.

In addition to the cost of the pilots and the aircraft cost, some private jet companies offer additional services to enhance the experience. Some, like a flight attendant, may be federally regulated based on the size of the aircraft. Others, like in flight catering, can be optional but enhance the experience greatly and compared to the flight time, are a small portion of the overall cost.

Some of the additional costs include:

When it comes to private jet charters, the term "cheap" is relative. While it's true that private jets are generally more expensive than commercial flights, there are ways to find more affordable options. The key is knowing where to look and how to calculate the costs.

An empty leg charter flight is a term used in the private jet industry to describe a one-way flight that has no passengers on board. This happens when a private jet has been chartered for a one-way trip and needs to return to its home base or another destination without any passengers. The term "empty leg" refers to the fact that the aircraft is flying without any paying passengers, making it an "empty" flight.

 Empty leg charter flights can be a cost-effective way to fly on a private jet, as the operator may offer the flight at a discounted rate in order to offset some of the costs of the empty leg. This can be a win-win situation for both the operator and the customer, as the operator is able to generate some revenue on an otherwise empty flight, and the customer is able to fly on a private jet at a lower cost than they would normally pay.

However, it's important to note that empty leg charter flights are not always available, as they are dependent on the specific travel plans of other customers. In addition, the timing and routing of an empty leg flight may not always align with a customer's travel needs, so it's important to be flexible and open to different options when considering an empty leg charter flight.

When you look at your invoice, the following charges may be itemized on your final invoice to show how much each part costs.

When it comes to chartering a private business jet, there are various types available, each offering unique features and capabilities to cater to different travel needs. Here are the main categories of business jets commonly available for charter, along with a data table showcasing examples of popular aircraft within each category, along with their estimated hourly charter costs:

Very light jets, are compact aircraft designed for shorter trips. They typically accommodate four to seven passengers and are ideal for regional travel or quick business trips. VLJs are known for their agility, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to operate from shorter runways, providing access to a wider range of airports. Some examples include:

Light jets offer a step up in size, range, and performance compared to VLJs. They can accommodate six to nine passengers and provide increased comfort and amenities. Light jets are suitable for both short and medium-haul flights, offering enhanced speed and range capabilities. They are often chosen for business travel, combining efficiency with a luxurious travel experience. Some examples include:

Midsize jets provide a balance between cabin space and range capabilities. With seating capacities ranging from seven to nine passengers, these jets offer greater interior comfort and amenities. Midsize jets are well-suited for longer flights, providing sufficient range to reach various destinations. Some examples include:

Super midsize jets offer an enhanced range and larger cabin space compared to midsize jets. With seating capacities ranging from eight to ten passengers, they provide increased comfort, extended range, and additional amenities. Some examples include:

Large cabin jets are designed to offer spacious and luxurious interiors for long-range travel. With seating capacities ranging from nine to sixteen passengers, these jets provide ample room for passengers to work, relax, and enjoy their journey. Some examples include:

Long-range jets offer excellent range capabilities, allowing for nonstop travel on intercontinental routes. These jets typically have spacious cabins and luxurious amenities to ensure a comfortable and productive journey. With seating capacities ranging from ten to sixteen passengers, long-range jets provide the flexibility to reach various global destinations. Some examples include

Ultra-long-range jets are at the top end of the business jet spectrum, offering the utmost in luxury, range, and performance. These jets can carry passengers on nonstop flights over vast distances, including transoceanic routes. With seating capacities typically ranging from ten to nineteen passengers, ultra-long-range jets provide luxurious amenities, spacious cabins, and often feature state-of-the-art technology. Some of the examples include: