Fractional Jet Ownership Issues: Now What? Cost, Limitations And Alternatives

A private jet portfolio is no small investment. The initial capital outlay to cover even fractional jet ownership cost quite a bit, as ongoing fees and surcharges definitely add up.

But at least you have a private jet when you need it, right? Well, not always. While a jet share gives contract owners access to a private plane in a general sense, there are several occasions where they may find their options limited. Explore the true cost of fractional jet ownership.

Fractional Jet Ownership Cost and Concerns

When Fractional Providers Say No: 4 Jet share limitations

There are four big drawbacks to fractional jet ownership that individuals and businesses must consider.

Peak Days: While your private jet will most likely be available for regular business travel, what about high traffic days like sporting events and holidays? Jet share contracts by nature mean one aircraft is serving many “owners.” However, when high-traffic times hit, your plane may be in service elsewhere if you don’t scheduled it far in advance.

Maintenance Days : Every private jet needs maintenance, optimization and unexpected repairs. Since the cost of fractional jet ownership only gives you access to the aircraft on your contract, your schedule may not sync up with maintenance requirements.

Crew Limitations: There are strict federal guidelines on travel time and working hours. As a result, occasionally, your crew and operators may not be available-even though your private jet is.

Out of Hours: Fractional jet ownership is based on an anticipated amount of total flight time. It takes into a count not just your flight time, but the flight time for all owners. If you run out of hours in your jet share, you may find yourself out of luck should another mission arise.

Alternatives to Fractional Jet Ownership

Plan with no Plane: What to Do Next

If your jet share is not available, there are other private jet options available. First, check your fractional jet ownership contract for any provisions or exceptions available for out of service times.There might be features of your contract that you can take advantage of. But if not, then it’s time to start assessing your supplemental lift options.

The most common reaction to an unavailable private jet or an aircraft that doesn’t fit the mission is to explore jet charter services. While it gets you to your destination on time, it also incurs both the extra cost of charter accommodations and doesn’t address the fact that your original fractional jet ownership investment isn’t meeting your needs fully. However, if it’s a one-time inconvenience, a private jet charter may be the best solution.

Private Jet Charter for Supplemental Lift: How to Choose

There are several factors to consider before picking a private jet charter to supplement your jet share. Also keep the following in mind.

Safety: While researching a supplement to your jet share, do your due diligence on the operator and their safety record. Not all private jet charter operators are created equal. Overall, investing in safety information from a reporting agency like Wyvern or Argus will give you peace of mind that your private jet charter company operates at the highest possible standards. Also, check for any independent verification your provider may feature on their website.

Reputation: This can make a big difference in terms of your onboard experience. Is your charter operator known for exemplary service? Attention to detail? Ratings can mean the difference between a pristine private jet you are proud to travel on with family or business associates, and a trip you’d rather not recall after landing. Also, jet share owners looking into charter should make sure their chosen broker can meet any of their other itinerary needs. For example, do they provide excellent catering, ground transportation or other accommodations? Some private jet charter options may create better experiences for their clients than others.

Not the First Time? Reevaluate your Private jet Portfolio

If you’ve had to arrange supplemental lift before, it might be time to adjust your private aviation portfolio. While some can get by with the cost of fractional jet ownership and a single aircraft option, the fact is, many travelers must use private jet travel to meet a variety of demands and capacity. One aircraft very rarely fits all missions.

If you fly 25 hours or more, private jet membership may be a better option. There are many benefits to private jet card or private jet membership for those with varying needs and schedules.

A private jet membership program is chiefly concerned with getting you to your destination, not which plane you take to get there. Fleet variety means you can always access the aircraft type you need, wherever your travel takes you. You won’t struggle to get to your destination or pay surcharges or peak rates for high-volume travel days.

Membership programs focus on quality, safety and value. They cater to your needs and desires by providing an optimal experience that’s above and beyond. Membership can change as your business changes, allowing for agility in your business and spontaneity in your leisure travel. You won’t need a crystal ball to plan your private jet usage.

If you need supplemental lift, the flexibility and value of membership can be big difference to your air travel portfolio.