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
Flying private is the ultimate travel luxury, but owning a private jet outright isn’t practical for everyone. Fractional jet ownership is a popular option for those who want the benefits of private aviation without the full responsibility and cost of owning a private jet.
It’s a shared ownership model that balances access, affordability, and convenience. This guide will break down the advantages of fractional jet ownership, how it works, and why it’s a smart choice for many.
Fractional jet ownership means buying a share in an aircraft instead of owning the entire aircraft. Each fractional owner purchases a percentage of the jet, which comes with a set number of flight hours annually. This ownership model is often part of a fractional jet ownership program managed by fractional providers.
For example:
You share operational costs, including aircraft maintenance, with other owners, and a management agreement ensures smooth operations like scheduling, crew management, and ongoing maintenance.
Fractional jet ownership offers a perfect balance of luxury, flexibility, and cost-efficiency, making private aviation more accessible without the full commitment of owning an entire aircraft.
Fractional jet ownership offers private jet access at a fraction of the cost of full aircraft ownership. Instead of bearing the upfront cost of owning a private jet, you pay only for the percentage you need. This reduces both the initial investment and ongoing operational costs like fuel, insurance, and crew salaries.
You enjoy the benefits of private jet ownership, such as comfort, convenience, and privacy, without the hassle of managing the entire aircraft. Fractional ownership programs handle everything from maintenance to staffing.
With most fractional jet shares, you’re guaranteed a set number of flight hours annually. This ensures that you always have access to a jet when needed, even during peak travel times.
Fractional owners can often choose from multiple jet models within their program. This flexibility means you can select a smaller jet for short trips or a larger aircraft for long-haul flights. You’re not limited to one particular jet.
Fractional providers manage all aspects of your jet, including:
Costs are transparent and predictable, making it easier to plan your travel budget. Typical expenses include:
Fractional jet ownership can sometimes qualify as a business expense, depending on usage. Owners may also benefit from depreciation deductions on their share of the aircraft.
Flying privately means skipping commercial air travel hassles like long security lines, delays, and crowded terminals. You save time by departing from private terminals and flying on your schedule.
Ownership is shared among multiple owners, so you’re not solely responsible for the jet’s upkeep. This reduces the burden compared to full jet ownership.
At the end of your ownership term, you can resell your fractional share. The resale value depends on the aircraft’s condition and market demand, but it’s a tangible asset compared to jet card programs or charters.
You start by purchasing a share of a particular jet through a fractional ownership program. This includes signing a purchase agreement that outlines your share size, flight hours, and costs.
A management agreement ensures that the provider handles all operational details, including scheduling flights, hiring crew, and maintaining the jet.
You use the aircraft for your allocated flight hours. Most fractional providers offer flexible scheduling and guaranteed availability, even during busy travel periods.
When your ownership term ends, you can renew your agreement or sell your share. Some providers assist with the resale process to ensure a smooth transition.
Fractional jet ownership isn’t ideal for everyone. It works best for:
| Factor | Fractional Ownership | Full Aircraft Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower, shared among owners | High, covers entire aircraft |
| Operational Costs | Shared, with fixed and variable costs | Sole responsibility |
| Management | Handled by fractional providers | Requires hiring and oversight |
| Flexibility | Access to multiple aircraft types | Limited to one aircraft |
| Resale | Resell your share | Resell the entire aircraft |
| Ideal For | Flyers with moderate usage | High-volume flyers |
| Factor | Fractional Ownership | Jet Card Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Own a share of a jet | Prepay for flight hours |
| Costs | Includes equity and operating costs | No ownership, just flight costs |
| Flexibility | Higher, with guaranteed hours | Depends on provider terms |
| Ideal For | Frequent flyers with equity interest | Occasional flyers needing flexibility |
While there are many benefits of fractional jet ownership, it’s essential to consider the drawbacks:
Fractional jet ownership combines the best of private aviation with shared costs and professional management.
It’s perfect for frequent flyers, businesses, and individuals seeking the luxury of private jet travel without the complexities of full aircraft ownership.
By choosing a reputable fractional ownership program, you can enjoy the flexibility, convenience, and exclusivity of flying privately—all at a fraction of the cost of owning a private jet outright.
