There are many different ways to fly private, each with pros and cons. Discover your pathway to VIP jet travel in our guide and take to the skies your way.
All About the Different Ways to Fly Private
Explore the different ways to fly private, from on-demand charters to full ownership. This guide breaks down costs, pros, and ideal use cases to help you choose the best fit. Private aviation is a luxury service. Maximize value by flying with a trusted provider like Paramount Business Jets.
- On-Demand Charter: Ideal for occasional flyers; flexible, pay-as-you-go model
- Fixed Hourly Jet Cards: Consistent pricing; less flexibility in fluctuating markets
- Dynamic Debit Jet Cards: Transparent pricing with flexibility and concierge service
- Jet Leasing: Great for frequent flyers needing dedicated aircraft access
- Fractional Ownership: Long-term commitment with equity and guaranteed hours
- Whole Ownership: Maximum control and cost—best for ultra-frequent fliers
- Cheapest Option: On-demand charter, with no long-term commitment
- Why Paramount: Safety-first culture, ethical practices, and personalized, expert service
Private aviation offers unmatched comfort and convenience, making it the clear choice for VIP travelers. However, you have a range of options when it comes to precisely how to fly private.
Private jet travel is more than simply purchasing an aircraft or booking a flight. The right method for you depends on your unique travel needs and preferences, which may change from mission to mission. Ultimately, understanding the different access models can help you make the most informed choice.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of the many types of charter flights and ownership models available. Continue reading to find the best way to fly private for your lifestyle and budget.
1. On-Demand Private Jet Charter
Best for: Travelers flying fewer than 25 hours per year
Cost structure: Pay-as-you-go pricing
Ideal for: Infrequent flyers, one-time trips, and those valuing maximum flexibility
On-demand private jet charter is the most accessible entry point into private aviation. It’s essentially a safe and seamless way to rent a private jet.
Chartering allows you to book flights whenever you need them without committing to long-term contracts or upfront payments. You can also compare charter flights to ensure that you’re getting the best rate for each mission. It’s often considered the best way to fly private for those who prioritize both flexibility and value.
2. Fixed Hourly Jet Cards
Best for: Travelers flying between 25 and 50 hours per year
Cost structure: Prepaid block of hours at a fixed hourly rate
Ideal for: Business travelers or high-net-worth individuals who value predictability
Jet cards offer convenience and consistency. You prepay for a set number of hours. Then, you’ll gain access to a fleet with guaranteed availability, usually with as little as 24 hours' notice. This is perfect for frequent flyers who don’t want the hassle of trip-by-trip negotiations.
However, fixed hourly rates can sometimes mean you overpay compared to real-time market pricing. That can cost you money when market rates drop. As a result, many travelers consider fixed-rate cards less flexible than dynamic debit-style jet cards.
3. Dynamic Debit Jet Card Memberships
Best for: Flyers logging 10 to 50 hours annually
Cost structure: Prepaid funds debited per trip based on market rates
Ideal for: Clients who want transparency, flexibility, and enhanced service
Paramount Business Jets' Jet Card Membership is a standout in this category. Our Jet Card is the first fully transparent private jet card on the market. All clients see our markup and safety specifications before every trip.
With a membership, there's no fixed hourly rate. Instead, Paramount clients benefit from dynamic pricing while still enjoying concierge-level service and preferred access.
4. Private Jet Leasing
Best for: High-frequency flyers (80+ hours per month)
Cost structure: Monthly lease + operating costs
Ideal for: Executives, musicians, or athletes who require consistent access without ownership responsibilities
Leasing provides the exclusivity of ownership without the capital outlay. However, you still have consistent, reliable access to a dedicated aircraft and crew. Overall, you can anticipate more cost control than with pay-as-you-go models if you’re flying frequently.
5. Fractional Ownership
Best for: Flyers logging more than 50 hours per year
Cost structure: Purchase a share in an aircraft, plus monthly management and hourly fees
Ideal for: Travelers who want partial ownership benefits without buying a whole jet
Fractional ownership gives you equity in a jet. This model typically entitles you to a guaranteed number of flight hours annually. Fractional jet ownership is a long-term commitment, typically requiring 3–5 years of buy-in. This model best suits VIP travelers who prefer consistency and access to newer aircraft.
6. Whole Aircraft Ownership
Best for: Ultra-high-net-worth individuals flying 200+ hours annually
Cost structure: Full purchase price and crew, maintenance, insurance, fuel
Ideal for: Corporations or families with heavy travel schedules
Whole ownership offers complete control over your aircraft. That includes custom interiors and operational decisions. However, full ownership does come with the highest costs and responsibilities of any model on this list.
For many VIP travelers, even at high usage levels, charter or fractional options offer better value and flexibility. After all, if you own a plane or jet, you cannot seamlessly switch between aircraft based on mission type or length.
Which Is the Cheapest Way to Fly Private?
In most cases, on-demand charter is the most affordable option for new or infrequent flyers. There’s no long-term financial commitment, and you can shop for competitive rates per trip.
However, frequent travelers may find better value over time with a jet card membership, depending on their flying habits. With a membership model, you may gain access to even more affordable options. For example, you may be able to seamlessly book empty leg flights, which tend to offer incredible savings.
When it comes to private aviation, however, you are paying for a luxury service. Even the least costly option offers a premium experience far above and beyond commercial first class. The real value lies not just in price, but in the time saved, comfort gained, and personalized attention provided.
When you charter through Paramount Business Jets, you benefit from:
- Transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees
- Access to a global network of vetted, safety-audited operators
- Personalized service from lifelong aviation experts
- Flight-by-flight safety reports reviewed by our in-house safety manager
- 24/7 support from a dedicated advisor before, during, and after your flight
- Ethical practices that prioritize your best interest, not profit margins
Chartering a private jet can be cost-effective, but there is absolutely nothing “cheap” about the seamless, safe, exceptional experience we provide our clients.
Fly Private on Your Terms with Paramount Business Jets
The best way to fly private depends on your frequency, flexibility needs, and financial goals. At Paramount Business Jets, we’re here to help you evaluate all options with full transparency and personalized guidance.
Learn more about our private jet services and book your next charter flight today.
