Wondering how much it costs to rent a private jet? Our Private Jet Charter Cost Estimator gives you instant, accurate pricing. Just enter your trip details to see private jet rental costs tailored to your route and aircraft type. It’s the easiest way to budget your flight while enjoying the privacy, comfort, and flexibility of private aviation.
The cost to charter a private jet is based on the aircraft’s hourly rate multiplied by total flight time. Then, additional expenses like fuel surcharges, crew fees, airport charges, catering, and repositioning costs are added. If the aircraft isn’t based near your departure airport, repositioning flights can increase your price.
Your private jet cost depends on factors like aircraft type, travel distance, passenger count, and trip timing. Peak travel dates may raise rates, while empty leg flights can lower them. The main cost factors include:
Hourly rate × total flight hours
Crew fees (including hotel costs for overnight trips)
Overnight parking fees
Fuel costs
Landing fees at each airport, including repositioning stops
Repositioning fees if starting from another airport
7.5% Federal Excise Tax (FET)
Private jet rental prices vary based on aircraft size, route, and trip length. Most charters cost between $2,000 and $12,000 per flight hour. Smaller aircraft like turboprops and very light jets are ideal for short hops, while midsize and heavy jets cost more but offer greater comfort and range.
For example, a one way flight from Los Angeles to Las Vegas in a light jet might cost $6,000–$8,000. A cross country trip in a midsize jet can range from $25,000–$35,000, and international flights in large jets can exceed $100,000. For the most accurate rate, use our Private Jet Charter Cost Estimator.
Beyond the basics of hourly rates, fuel, and landing fees, private jet pricing can be influenced by seasonal and operational factors. In colder climates, de-icing fees can add thousands to a winter departure. Flexible or “sliding” departure times may lower costs by letting operators optimize scheduling.
Choosing a single pilot aircraft instead of a dual crew jet can sometimes reduce costs. Long duty days or overnight trips may require additional crew or relief pilots to meet regulations. Market supply and demand also affect pricing. Holidays, major events, and busy weekends typically cost more. Even small details, like where catering is sourced, can impact the final price.
The most affordable way to fly private is by booking empty leg flights, repositioning trips offered at a fraction of the standard rate. You can also save by flying during off-peak travel days, being flexible with departure times, or choosing smaller aircraft like turboprops and very light jets. Selecting airports with lower landing fees can further reduce your total cost.
For the best balance of price and availability, book your private jet about three months in advance. Many operators won’t quote earlier than that because fuel prices, aircraft availability, and crew schedules can change quickly. Booking too early can lead to inaccurate estimates, while waiting until the last minute may limit options and increase costs, especially during peak seasons. Booking around 90 days out locks in competitive rates while keeping a wide range of aircraft and departure times available.