up to 14 Passengers
Global 6000
Global 7500
up to 11 Passengers
Challenger 600
Falcon 900
up to 8 Passengers
Challenger 350
Falcon 50
up to 8 Passengers
Hawker 750
Praetor 500
up to 6 Passengers
Beechjet 400A
Hawker 400XP
up to 60 Passengers
Avanti P180
Pilatus PC-12
January 1, 2025
Private aviation offers unmatched flexibility, comfort, and efficiency. If you’re looking to fly privately on your schedule, you’ve probably come across two main options: fractional jet ownership and full jet ownership.
But which private jet ownership program is right for you? Each ownership model has its benefits and challenges, and the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and travel frequency.
Let’s break down fractional jet ownership vs. full jet ownership by comparing all the essential aspects, so you can make an informed decision.
The initial investment is one of the most significant differences between fractional jet ownership and full jet ownership.
Full aircraft ownership requires buying the entire jet. The prices range from $3 million for light jets to over $70 million for larger aircraft like Gulfstreams or Bombardier Globals. The purchase price is just the start. Add taxes, delivery fees, customization, and legal costs, and the total can skyrocket.
With fractional jet ownership, you buy a fraction of a private jet. The shares usually range from 1/16 to 1/2, and the price is proportional to the share size. For example, a 1/8 share might cost $500,000 for a light jet and over $2 million for a larger aircraft.
The acquisition cost is significantly lower than buying a jet outright, making it a cost-effective option for many frequent flyers.
Beyond the initial purchase, ongoing expenses play a major role in determining which ownership model fits your budget and lifestyle.
Operational costs fall entirely on the fractional owner. These include:
Fractional owners share the costs. You’ll pay a monthly management fee, covering fixed expenses like maintenance, insurance, and administrative costs. An occupied hourly fee is charged for actual flight hours. This rate covers fuel, crew costs, and catering. For example:
How you use and access the jet depends heavily on the flexibility offered by fractional ownership programs versus owning a private jet outright.
Complete control is the standout feature of owning a private jet outright. You decide:
However, you are limited to one jet. If it’s unavailable due to maintenance or already in use, you’ll need to arrange an alternative, like a charter flight.
Most fractional programs offer access to a fleet of private jets, allowing you to choose the jet type that best fits your trip. For instance:
Fractional providers often guarantee access with short notice, ensuring you can always travel. This flexibility is a significant advantage for people who need guaranteed availability.
Your annual flight hours and travel frequency are key factors in deciding between these two private aviation ownership models.
If you fly frequently, owning a private jet may make financial sense. Full owners typically fly over 400 flight hours per year to justify the high costs. This model works best for businesses or individuals who have consistent and high travel demands.
Fractional jet shares come with a set number of flight hours per year. For example:
This model is ideal for private flights under 400 hours annually, making it perfect for frequent flyers who want the benefits of private jet travel without the high costs of full aircraft ownership.
Aircraft ownership comes with depreciation, but how this impacts your financial commitment varies significantly between fractional shares and full ownership.
Jets depreciate over time, losing value due to age, usage, and market conditions. Selling the jet can be time-consuming and depends on market demand. The residual resale value is often lower than expected, especially for older models.
Fractional jet ownership shares also depreciate but at a slower rate since costs and usage are shared. When your contract ends (typically 3–5 years), most fractional programs help sell your share, simplifying the process.
While the resale value may be lower, the overall financial risk is reduced compared to owning a jet outright.
Managing the operational aspects of a private jet differs greatly between these two models, with one offering complete control and the other prioritizing convenience.
With whole aircraft ownership, you are responsible for all operational aspects, including:
While this provides full control, it requires significant time, expertise, and resources.
A management company handles all operations, from crew hiring to maintenance and scheduling.
This hands-off approach allows you to focus on your travel without worrying about the day-to-day management of the jet.
Both models provide potential tax benefits, but the scope and structure of these benefits depend on the type of ownership.
Owners can claim tax benefits on depreciation, operational costs, and business use. These deductions can offset some expenses, especially if the jet is used primarily for business.
Fractional owners may also qualify for tax benefits, but the deductions are proportional to their fractional share. Consult a tax advisor to understand the specific implications for your ownership model.
The length of private jet charter and ease of exiting the ownership arrangement vary between fractional jet ownership and full jet ownership, making this a critical area to compare
Buying a jet is a long-term commitment. If your travel needs change, selling the jet can take months, and resale values vary based on the market.
Most fractional ownership programs have contract terms of 3–5 years. At the end of the term, you can:
This flexibility makes fractional programs a better option for those who want shorter commitments.
Predictability of expenses can be a deciding factor, especially when evaluating hidden costs and ongoing fees in fractional programs versus whole aircraft ownership.
Costs are harder to predict due to unforeseen expenses like major repairs or unexpected downtime.
Costs are more predictable, with clear breakdowns of monthly management fees, occupied hourly fees, and other charges. Be mindful of hidden fees, such as repositioning fees or peak day surcharges, which some fractional providers may charge.
Choose full jet ownership if:
Opt for fractional jet ownership if:
Both fractional jet ownership and full jet ownership offer unique advantages. Your choice depends on your travel frequency, budget, and need for control. By understanding the practical aspects of each model, you can make a decision that aligns with your lifestyle and travel goals.
