Private aviation has always been a luxury reserved for the wealthy and powerful. In recent years, a new trend has emerged in private aviation, one that promises to offer the ultimate in convenience and luxury: fractional ownership. Fractional ownership allows individuals or companies to purchase a share in a private jet, providing access to all the benefits of private aviation without the hassle and expense of owning a plane outright.
By far the most prominent player in the fractional ownership market is NetJets. Owned by Berkshire Hathaway, the company offers a range of ownership options that cater to different budgets and travel needs. If you’re interested in joining the ranks of the ultra-wealthy and flying in style, you might be wondering: how much does NetJets cost?
Understanding the Cost of NetJets
The cost of fractional ownership with NetJets can vary depending on a number of factors. These include the type of aircraft you choose, the number of hours you plan to fly, and the length of your commitment. Generally speaking, the more you fly and the longer your commitment, the lower your hourly rate will be.
NetJets offers several different programs designed to fit different budgets and needs. The most popular program is the Classic Card, which is ideal for those who fly less frequently. With this program, you purchase a set number of flight hours in advance, and these hours can be used over a period of 24 months. The price per hour varies depending on the size of the aircraft and other factors, but generally ranges from $5,000 to $8,000 per hour.
For those who fly more frequently, NetJets offers a variety of ownership programs. The most basic option is the Marquis Jet Card, which requires an initial investment of $100,000. This entitles you to 25 hours of flying time on a specific type of aircraft, such as a Citation XLS or a Hawker 800XP. Hourly rates for the Marquis Jet Card program start at around $9,000 per hour.
If you’re looking for something more flexible, NetJets also offers a range of fractional ownership programs. These programs allow you to purchase a share in a specific type of aircraft, such as a Gulfstream G450 or a Bombardier Global Express. Depending on the size of your share and the number of hours you plan to fly, hourly rates for these programs can vary widely, ranging from around $5,000 per hour to upwards of $20,000 per hour.
Additional Costs
When calculating the cost of owning a share in a NetJets plane, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be additional costs beyond the hourly rate. For example, you may be required to pay for fuel, landing fees, and other expenses associated with each flight. Additionally, some programs may require you to pay for positioning flights, which are necessary to move the aircraft from its current location to your departure airport.
There are also certain operational costs associated with owning a share in a private jet that you will need to consider. These may include maintenance costs, crew salaries, insurance premiums, and hangar fees. While these costs are typically included in the hourly rate or ownership fee, they can add up over time and should be factored into your budget when considering fractional ownership.
Benefits of Fractional Ownership with NetJets
While the cost of fractional ownership with NetJets may seem high, it’s important to remember that this investment provides access to a level of convenience and luxury that is simply not available through commercial air travel. With NetJets, you’ll enjoy all the benefits of flying privately, including:
1.Flexible scheduling:
With NetJets, you can book a flight at any time, with as little as 10 hours’ notice. This means you can avoid the hassle of commercial airline schedules and arrive at your destination on your own terms.
2.Personalized service:
NetJets offers a range of personalized services to make your travel experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. From catering to ground transportation, the company takes care of all the details so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying your flight.
3.Safety and security:
NetJets has an impeccable safety record, with a team of experienced pilots and a rigorous maintenance program that ensures the highest level of safety and reliability.
4.Access to a global fleet:
With NetJets, you’ll have access to a fleet of more than 700 aircraft, including everything from small turboprops to large business jets. This means you can choose the perfect aircraft for your specific travel needs, whether you’re flying across the country or around the world.
Conclusion
Fractional ownership with NetJets is a significant investment, but it provides access to a level of luxury and convenience that is simply not available through commercial air travel. Whether you fly occasionally or frequently, there is a NetJets program that can meet your needs and budget. By carefully considering the costs and benefits of fractional ownership, you can determine whether this option is right for you and enjoy all the benefits that come with flying
