Luxury, flexibility, privacy, efficiency: all to the ninth degree. The advantages of hiring a private jet – for business or pleasure – are overwhelmingly persuasive and incredibly hard to ignore. Hiring a private jet can elevate travel into the realms of total comfort, whilst also being immeasurably practical: making your work life more productive, to the benefit of your business, or making your family life easier, to the benefit of your partner, children, and pets It’s a unique and comfortable travel experience, where everything is tailored to your personal needs and bespoke preferences. Firstly, hiring a private jet saves a tremendous amount of time – there is no waiting around, no time-consuming security checks to board the plane, and because you can fundamentally get straight on the runway, it is tangibly faster and more efficient than commercial airliners. Talking of airport access – private jets also offer greater access to smaller airports, flying you closer to your destination: again, a huge time-saver and a real luxury, with a heady dash of exclusivity. Convenience applies at almost every level, and flexibility is a huge factor: with private jets, you can usually change your schedule with minimal notice (albeit fees will apply). Reclining seats, private bedrooms, showers, high-end dining – all are available on a private jet, and the list goes on. Here is our expert guide to hiring a private jet – the best providers, along with costs and associated considerations.
Elements To Consider
Determining your needs is crucial. If you are considering hiring a private jet, then you want to make sure it will enhance your lifestyle. Passenger count is a key consideration: how many people are flying will determine the type and size of aircraft you’ll need. Destination is linked to passenger count too: knowing your departure and arrival airports in good time, as well as any stopovers, is key – not all airports can accommodate all jet sizes (so this might sway your choice of one or even both). Scheduling is another massive factor. Saving time is a significant motivating factor when it comes to private jets, so it is wise to double check that your private jet provider can cater for your favoured departure and return times – likely most of them can. Onboard services tend to be outstanding, but it is worth flagging any extra desires – specific catering demands, office services, guaranteed Wi-Fi connectivity, and in-flight entertainment.
Cost And Model
Costs of hiring a private jet are variable, and the ‘market’ can fluctuate – global fuel prices can be a factor, as can the availability of parts and upkeep. Other elements such as the size of the aircraft, the duration of the flight, and additional services will also change the price – and quotes tend to be bespoke. That said, it is possible to give a rough estimate of costs and capabilities – as follows. Light jets: $2,500 – $5,000 per flight hour; Ideal for short trips (2-3 hours), usually for 4-8 passengers. Midsize jets: $4,000 – $8,000 per flight hour; suitable for mid-range flights (4-5 hours), usually for 6-10 passengers. Heavy jets: $8,000 – $15,000 per flight hour; best for long-distance travel (up to 12 hours), usually for between 10-18 passengers. VIP airliners: $15,000+ per flight hour; much larger aircraft with long-haul capabilities and with the capacity to carry dozens of passengers, and bedecked with luxury.
Financial Context
Calculating what you might spend per year on hiring a private jet is very worthwhile. Some people might work this out, and if they like what they experience with a hire – and have the means to do so – pursue whether ownership is for them. Hiring, however, is more flexible and obviously doesn’t bring with it the same level of responsibility. There is perhaps a greater freedom – circumstances can change, life (and business) isn’t always a linear, predictable path. Private jets are commonly hired for routes between major cities like London to Paris, New York to Los Angeles, Beijing to Shanghai, and Dubai to Riyadh. Although these are commercially available routes, they definitely would not have luxury amenities like fully reclining seats, private bedrooms, showers, and high-end catering if they chose to fly chartered. Perhaps dipping into this tailored travel experience – personal to you and your colleagues or family – is all you need, as and when you like it. Flexibility is the key.
Private Jet Providers
There is a healthy array of companies that specialise in private jet charters, and the booking process is perhaps more simple than you might expect. Most companies allow you to request quotes online – you provide your desired flight details, and they will give you a price. After settling on a price and date, when you are completely satisfied you have what you are looking for, don’t immediately rush in: it’s important to carefully review the terms and conditions, including any cancellation policies. Payment upfront or a sizable deposit is required, then it’s on to pre-flight coordination: finalising any special requests and ground transportation. Here are some of the leading private jet providers who operate successfully across the world. VistaJet: renowned for global private jet travel with luxurious service. JetSuite: adept at providing an impressive range of jets for short- and long-haul flights. XO: well known for offering both membership-based and on-demand charters. NetJets: fractional ownership is part of their business model, along with jet cards for frequent flyers. PrivateFly: very savvy on-demand booking platform which gathers and duly offers quotes from multiple operators.
For those with demanding schedules who need to zip around the globe, hiring a private jet can be hugely advantageous – and often the costs involved pay dividends when incorporated into a wider business plan. As they say, speculate to accumulate. For those wanting to hire a private jet for reasons of leisure, it’s hard to put a price on extra special time with loved ones.
