What is typically included in a private jet charter price?

Standard charter quotes typically include the aircraft rental (hourly rate), flight crew salaries, basic insurance, and standard landing fees at major airports. However, prices vary by operator. Some include fuel in their hourly rate while others quote it separately. Catering is usually extra unless specified. Always confirm what's included before booking. Additional costs often include overnight crew expenses, de-icing in winter, international overflight fees, and handling charges at certain airports.

What are empty leg flights and how much can I save?

Empty leg flights (also called deadhead or repositioning flights) occur when an aircraft needs to fly without passengers to its next booking or return to its home base. Charter operators offer these flights at 25-75% discounts to recover some costs. The trade-off is reduced flexibility—you must match the operator's schedule and route. Empty legs are ideal for flexible travellers who can adapt their plans. Sign up with multiple charter brokers to receive empty leg alerts for your preferred routes.

How do I choose the right size private jet for my trip?

Consider four factors: passenger count, flight distance, luggage requirements, and cabin comfort needs. Light jets suit 4-6 passengers on European routes under 3 hours with light luggage. Midsize jets offer stand-up cabins for 6-8 passengers on longer routes. Super midsize jets handle transatlantic flights with 8-10 passengers comfortably. Heavy jets provide full amenities for groups of 10-14 on long-haul flights. Ultra-long-range jets are for non-stop intercontinental travel with maximum comfort. Always factor in luggage—golf bags and ski equipment require larger baggage holds.

When is peak season for private jet charter?

Peak pricing typically applies during Christmas/New Year (mid-December to early January), Easter holidays, summer months (June-August for European destinations), major sporting events (Monaco Grand Prix, Wimbledon, major golf tournaments), and school half-terms. Prices can increase 20-40% during these periods, and availability becomes limited. Book 4-8 weeks ahead for peak travel. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) often offer the best combination of good weather and competitive pricing.

What additional costs should I budget for beyond the flight?

Beyond the base charter cost, budget for: catering (£50-£500+ per person depending on service level), ground transportation to/from airports, overnight crew expenses for multi-day trips (£200-£400 per crew member per night), de-icing fees in winter (£500-£2,000 depending on aircraft size), international handling fees at certain airports, customs and immigration fees for international flights, and potential fuel surcharges during high oil price periods. Request an all-inclusive quote from your operator to avoid surprises.

Is chartering a private jet cheaper than first class for groups?

For groups of 4-8 passengers, private jet charter is often comparable to or cheaper than multiple first-class tickets, especially on European routes. A light jet from London to Nice for 6 passengers might cost £8,000-12,000, compared to 6 first-class tickets at £2,000+ each. Beyond price, private charter offers significant time savings (no check-in queues, security lines, or connection delays), access to 5,000+ airports versus 500 for commercial airlines, and complete privacy and flexibility.

How far in advance should I book a private jet?

For optimal choice and pricing, book 2-4 weeks ahead for standard routes. Peak periods (holidays, major events, summer) require 4-8 weeks notice for popular routes. Last-minute bookings are possible—charter brokers regularly arrange flights within 24-48 hours—but you'll have fewer aircraft options and may pay a premium. For complex itineraries involving multiple destinations or specific aircraft requirements, 4-6 weeks provides the best balance of choice and value.

What baggage allowance do private jets have?

Baggage capacity varies significantly by aircraft category. Light jets typically accommodate 45-70 cubic feet (4-6 medium suitcases plus carry-ons). Midsize jets offer 70-100 cubic feet (6-8 large suitcases). Heavy jets provide 150-200 cubic feet—enough for golf bags, ski equipment, and extensive luggage for extended trips. Unlike commercial airlines, there's flexibility, but weight limits still apply. Inform your operator about any oversized items (golf clubs, skis, surfboards) when booking to ensure appropriate aircraft selection.

What safety certifications should I look for in a charter operator?

Reputable charter operators hold certifications from organisations including ARGUS (Platinum, Gold, or Silver ratings), Wyvern Wingman or Wyvern Registered status, IS-BAO (International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations), and relevant national aviation authority approvals (CAA in the UK, FAA in the US, EASA in Europe). Ask operators about their safety record, pilot training requirements, and maintenance protocols. Established brokers like Air Charter Service, PrivateFly, and Victor typically only work with vetted operators meeting strict safety standards.

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Private Jet Cost Calculator

Understand the rough costs of chartering a private jet before requesting quotes. This free estimation tool uses industry-standard hourly rates from the NBAA and EBAA to help you budget for your next flight.

Rates Based on Industry Standards

Understanding Private Jet Cost Calculator Estimates

Private jet charter costs depend on multiple factors: the aircraft category you choose, the distance you're travelling, current fuel prices, seasonal demand, and additional services. Unlike commercial airlines with fixed ticket prices, charter costs are quoted per flight and can vary significantly between operators.

This private jet cost calculator provides rough estimates based on 2026 industry-standard hourly rates. These rates are derived from data published by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA). Use these estimates as a starting point for budgeting, then request formal quotes from charter operators for accurate pricing.

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What's Typically Included in Charter Costs

Understanding what's included helps you compare quotes accurately

Fuel Costs

Aviation fuel (Jet-A1) is typically included in hourly rates, though some operators quote it separately. Fuel costs vary with oil prices and route.

Flight Crew

Pilot and co-pilot salaries, training, and certifications. Crew rest requirements may add costs on long-haul flights requiring overnight stays.

Landing Fees

Airport landing and parking fees at major airports. Smaller private terminals often have lower fees than busy international hubs.

Insurance

Aircraft liability and hull insurance. Reputable operators carry comprehensive coverage meeting regulatory requirements.

Navigation Fees

Air traffic control and overflight charges, especially for international routes crossing multiple airspaces.

Handling Services

Ground handling at departure and arrival airports. Includes baggage handling, aircraft marshalling, and passenger services.

Choosing the Right Aircraft for Your Trip

Match your aircraft to your mission—passenger count, range, and comfort requirements

Aircraft Category	Passengers	Range	Cabin Height	Best For	Hourly Rate
Light Jet Citation CJ3, Phenom 300, Learjet 45	4-6	2,000 nm	1.45m (4'9")	Short European trips, 2-3 hour flights	£2,500-£4,000
Midsize Jet Citation XLS, Hawker 800, Learjet 60	6-8	3,000 nm	1.72m (5'8")	Medium-haul flights, stand-up cabin comfort	£4,000-£6,500
Super Midsize Jet Citation Sovereign, Challenger 350, Gulfstream G280	8-10	4,000 nm	1.83m (6'0")	Transatlantic capable, executive groups	£5,500-£8,000
Heavy Jet Gulfstream G450, Falcon 900, Challenger 604	10-14	5,500 nm	1.88m (6'2")	Long-haul, large groups, full amenities	£7,000-£12,000
Ultra Long Range Gulfstream G650, Global 7500, Falcon 8X	12-16	7,500+ nm	1.91m (6'3")	Ultra-long haul, VIP travel, maximum comfort	£10,000-£15,000

Hourly rates are industry averages and vary by operator, aircraft age, and market conditions.

Baggage Capacity by Aircraft Category

Factor in luggage requirements when selecting your aircraft—especially for golf, ski, or extended trips

Light Jet

Baggage Capacity

45-70 cubic ft

Passengers

4-6

Typical Use

Short European trips, 2-3 hour flights

Midsize Jet

Baggage Capacity

70-100 cubic ft

Passengers

6-8

Typical Use

Medium-haul flights, stand-up cabin comfort

Super Midsize Jet

Baggage Capacity

100-135 cubic ft

Passengers

8-10

Typical Use

Transatlantic capable, executive groups

Heavy Jet

Baggage Capacity

150-200 cubic ft

Passengers

10-14

Typical Use

Long-haul, large groups, full amenities

Ultra Long Range

Baggage Capacity

200+ cubic ft

Passengers

12-16

Typical Use

Ultra-long haul, VIP travel, maximum comfort

Oversized Equipment

Golf bags, ski equipment, surfboards, and musical instruments require advance notice. Inform your charter operator when booking to ensure appropriate aircraft selection and baggage hold configuration.

How to Find Empty Leg Flights

Empty leg flights—also called deadhead or repositioning flights—occur when an aircraft needs to fly without passengers. This happens when returning to base after a one-way charter, or positioning for the next booking.

Charter operators offer these flights at 25-75% discounts to recover some operating costs. The trade-off is flexibility: you must match the operator's schedule and route exactly.

Empty legs are ideal for last-minute travellers who can adapt their plans. For more information on optimising aviation business websites, see our guide on most popular private jet routes.

Tips for Finding Empty Legs

Sign up with multiple charter brokers for empty leg alerts
Be flexible with dates—empty legs are often available at short notice
Popular routes (London-Nice, NYC-Miami) have more availability
One-way empty legs are more common than return flights
Book quickly—good deals are snapped up within hours
Check broker websites and apps regularly for new listings

Peak Season Pricing & Additional Costs

Budget beyond the base charter cost for the complete picture

Peak Season Periods

Expect 20-40% higher prices and limited availability during:

Christmas & New YearMid-December to early January
Easter HolidaysVariable dates each year
Summer SeasonJune to August (European routes)
Major EventsMonaco GP, Wimbledon, Golf Majors
School Half-TermsOctober, February breaks

Book 4-8 weeks ahead for peak travel to secure preferred aircraft.

Additional Costs to Budget

Catering£50-£500+ per person

Depending on service level
Ground TransportVariable

To/from FBO terminals
Crew Overnight£200-£400 per crew

For multi-day trips
De-icing£500-£2,000

Winter operations
International FeesVariable

Customs, overflight permits

Request an all-inclusive quote from your operator to avoid surprises.

Use Our Private Jet Cost Calculator

Select your aircraft type, route, and travel options to get an instant cost estimate based on 2026 industry rates.

Flight Details

Aircraft Type

Route

Trip Type

Number of Passengers

Peak Season

+25% (holidays, summer, major events)

Estimated Cost

Select your flight details and click "Calculate Estimate" to see pricing.

This calculator provides rough estimates only. For accurate pricing, request quotes from licensed charter operators. Costs vary based on operator, aircraft age, current fuel prices, and market conditions.

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Private Jet Cost Calculator FAQ

Whether you're a new client or a long-time partner, we're here to help. Below are answers to the most common questions.

This calculator provides estimates based on industry-standard hourly rates published by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and European Business Aviation Association (EBAA). Actual charter prices vary significantly based on operator, aircraft availability, current fuel costs, seasonal demand, and specific route requirements. Use these figures as a starting point for budgeting, then request quotes from multiple charter operators for exact pricing. Operators typically quote within 15-25% of these estimates for standard routes.

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