Taking the guesswork out of private jet travel
Handy resources
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Industry Overview
Private aviation offers a seamless, luxurious, and highly flexible way to travel, providing direct access to thousands of airports worldwide. Unlike commercial flights, private jet charters allow passengers to fly on their schedule, avoid long security lines, and enjoy a personalized experience tailored to their needs.
One of the key benefits of private aviation is time efficiency. Passengers can arrive at a private terminal (FBO) just minutes before departure, reducing travel stress and maximizing productivity. Private jets also have access to smaller airports, bringing travelers closer to their final destination while avoiding busy hubs.
Aircraft options range from light jets for short regional trips to large, long-range jets equipped with luxurious cabins, Wi-Fi, and onboard catering. Pricing varies based on factors like aircraft size, flight duration, and additional services. Many customers book on-demand charters, while frequent travelers may benefit from jet memberships or fractional ownership.
Private aviation is also used for business travel, leisure trips, and urgent medical transport. Whether flying for convenience, comfort, or necessity, private jet travel provides an unparalleled level of service, safety, and discretion. Findajet makes the process seamless by sourcing the best aircraft at competitive rates, ensuring a stress-free experience from booking to touchdown.
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Understanding Private Jet Charter Pricing
Private jet charter pricing can vary based on several factors, including aircraft type, flight distance, and additional services. Understanding these elements helps clients make informed decisions about their travel needs.
Factors That Affect Charter Costs
Key pricing factors include aircraft size, flight duration, fuel costs, landing fees, and crew expenses. Larger jets and longer flights generally cost more, while additional services may also impact the final price.
Hourly Rates and Minimum Flight Time
Private jet prices are often based on hourly rates, with a minimum flight time requirement. Smaller jets may start around $3,000 per hour, while larger luxury jets can exceed $10,000 per hour.
Additional Costs and Surcharges
Beyond base rates, charter pricing may include repositioning fees, catering, de-icing, and overnight crew costs. Understanding these potential charges ensures clients have a clear expectation of total expenses.
Transparent Pricing with Findajet
At Findajet, we prioritise transparency, providing detailed quotes with no hidden fees. Our team helps clients navigate pricing options, ensuring they receive the best value for their private jet charter.
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Glossary
Glossary of Private Jet Charter Terms
A
Air Charter Broker – A company or individual that arranges private jet charters on behalf of clients by sourcing aircraft from approved operators.
Aircraft Category – Classification of private jets based on size and range, such as Light Jet, Midsize Jet, and Heavy Jet.
Airway Fees – Charges applied by air navigation service providers for using controlled airspace.
B
Block Time – A set number of pre-paid flight hours purchased in advance at a discounted rate.
Broker Fee – A service charge applied by an air charter broker for arranging a flight.
C
Cabotage – Restrictions on foreign operators flying domestic routes within a country.
Charter Agreement – The contract outlining terms, costs, and conditions for a private jet charter.
Crew Fees – Additional costs related to pilot and crew accommodation, meals, and overnight stays.
D
De-icing Fees – Costs associated with removing ice or snow from the aircraft before departure.
Deadhead Flight – A repositioning flight where the aircraft flies empty, often factored into charter pricing.
Duty Time – The period during which the flight crew is on duty, including flight and ground time.
E
Empty Leg – A discounted flight where the aircraft is returning to base or repositioning without passengers.
ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) – The expected time a flight will land at its destination.
F
FBO (Fixed Base Operator) – A private terminal at an airport that provides services like lounges, fueling, and ground handling for private jet passengers.
Flight Hour – The time calculated from when an aircraft starts moving until it comes to a stop after landing.
Fuel Surcharge – Additional cost added to the base charter price due to fluctuating fuel prices.
H
Handling Fees – Charges for ground services such as baggage handling, fueling, and aircraft parking.
Hangar Fees – Costs associated with storing an aircraft in a hangar instead of parking on the tarmac.
L
Landing Fees – Charges imposed by airports for landing a private jet, based on aircraft size and weight.
Leg – A single segment of a journey, from takeoff to landing.
M
Minimum Flight Time – The shortest duration for which an operator will charge, usually one or two hours.
MTOW (Maximum Takeoff Weight) – The heaviest an aircraft can be for safe takeoff.
O
One-Way Charter – A flight booked for a single trip without a planned return leg.
Operator – The licensed company that owns or manages aircraft and provides flight services.
P
Passenger Tax – A government-imposed fee per passenger for using private aviation services.
Positioning Flight – A flight to relocate an aircraft to a different airport for a charter booking.
R
Ramp Fees – Charges for parking an aircraft at an airport, usually based on time and aircraft size.
Repositioning Fee – The cost of moving an aircraft to a departure point before a booked charter.
S
Slot Time – A reserved time window for takeoff or landing at busy airports.
Safety Rating – Certifications and audits (e.g., ARGUS, Wyvern) that evaluate an operator’s safety standards.
T
Taxi Time – The time an aircraft spends moving on the ground before takeoff or after landing.
Turnaround Time – The time required to prepare an aircraft for its next flight, including refueling and cleaning.
W
Wet Lease – An agreement where an aircraft is leased with crew, maintenance, and insurance included.
Wi-Fi Surcharge – An extra fee for in-flight internet access, depending on the operator.
This glossary helps visitors understand private jet charter terminology, ensuring a smoother booking experience with Findajet. Let me know if you’d like any additions!
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Karl Holland
SALES MANAGER
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Jaya Dixon
MARKETING DIRECTOR
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Jamie Kokot
CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER