Tips and other travel advice

Private Jet Rental: How to Save on Costs

Mar 8, 2024

How to rent a cheap private jet

Flying private isn’t just for celebrities anymore. With a bit of research—and the right timing—this upscale experience can become surprisingly accessible. Below, you’ll find a few grounded tips to help lower the cost without losing the comfort that makes private aviation so tempting.

Luxury within easy reach

Private jets used to be out of reach, reserved for executives and the ultra-rich. That image still lingers, but it’s fading. The travel landscape has shifted. More operators, more routes, and smarter tech mean that chartering a jet no longer requires an extravagant budget. Luxury? Still there. But now, shared more widely.

Planning and flexibility

Flying private isn’t only about polished interiors and discreet service. It’s also about control—over timing, routes, and space. With the right aircraft, the journey adapts to you, not the other way around. Still, that level of personalization works best when you stay open: flexible dates, off-peak hours, and non-major airports can make a big difference in cost.

Comparison of private jet companies

Prices vary, sometimes drastically. That’s why comparing operators is more than just smart—it’s essential. Not all fleets are equal. Some specialize in short hops; others focus on transcontinental comfort. Look beyond the price tags. Check how they handle cancellations. Read real reviews, not just testimonials. Request multiple quotes. That’s where the deals start to show up.

Take advantage of empty flights and special offers

It’s not always obvious—but jets don’t just fly when they’re full. Sometimes, they need to move empty. Maybe to pick up clients in another city. Maybe to return to base. These one-way trips, often called empty legs, are offered at much lower rates. For travelers who aren’t set on a time or destination, that can change everything.

The catch? You have to be quick. And flexible. These deals aren’t always visible for long. Some get snapped up within hours.

There’s also this: signing up for alerts or newsletters from private aviation companies. It may feel like noise at first, but once in a while, a seasonal offer or flash promotion shows up that makes the numbers work. Especially if your schedule can bend a little.

If you’re open, these quieter options can bring the price of flying private down—sometimes more than expected.

Price examples for short- and long-haul routes

To give a rough idea of what to expect, here are some price ranges. They shift—depending on aircraft type, timing, location, or how last-minute the booking is. But this gives a general feel for it. If the idea of booking a private flight still feels unclear, it might help to look into the basics of air charter. It lays out how the system works—without the jargon. Different aircraft categories, booking methods, and how routes are typically arranged. – Short-haul (e.g. Paris to London): About an hour in the air. A small jet—seating up to 6—can start around 4,000 euros. Simple route. Minimal fuss. – Medium-haul (e.g. New York to Miami): Three hours, more or less. Mid-size jets often begin at 12,000 euros. A bit more room. Usually fits 8 people comfortably. – Long-haul (e.g. London to Dubai): A longer stretch—roughly six hours. Larger jets, fitted with extra amenities (beds, private bathroom, full galley), might start at 25,000 euros. Can take up to 14 passengers. Of course, none of these are set in stone. Prices shift with demand, aircraft location, and how early you book. It’s always better to ask for a custom quote. Chartering a private jet still carries a certain mystique—but the idea isn’t as out of reach as it once was. If you stay flexible, compare carefully, and keep an eye on special routes, the numbers start to make more sense. Then it’s just a matter of finding the private jet company that suits you—not just in price, but in how they handle the whole journey.