In private aviation, two of the most popular ways to fly are Fractional Jet Ownership and Private Jet Charter. Both offer the luxury, efficiency, and time-saving benefits of flying privately, and, on their own, they’re designed for very different traveler profiles. However, many Private Clients find these two solutions to complement each other when part of a complete aviation portfolio.
Many fractional owners find they need supplemental lift —additional flights outside their ownership agreement — when their fractional share isn’t the right fit for a particular trip. Supplemental lift comes into play when:
- Their owned share’s aircraft type isn’t ideal for the mission (e.g., needing a long-range jet for international travel).
- Their aircraft is already booked or undergoing maintenance.
- They need additional capacity for unique trips like large family getaways, business events, or special occasions.
Understanding the differences between Fractional Ownership and Private Charter and how they can complement each other is key to finding the right fit. Maybe you’re flying cross-country every week. Maybe you need a lift from your home in Maine to Martha’s Vineyard a few times a year. Perhaps you’re planning an international getaway with your family or need a one-off trip for a special event.
Trying to decide on Fractional Vs. Charter, or whether to explore both? Let’s explore the major differences you need to know in 2025.
What Is Fractional Jet Ownership?
Fractional jet ownership is a model where you purchase a share of a specific aircraft, entitling you to a set number of flight hours per year, typically in increments like 50, 75, or 100 hours. Think of it like a timeshare — but for a private jet.
You don’t own the whole plane, and you won’t necessarily fly on the same aircraft each time, depending on the program. But by purchasing a fraction of the asset, you gain financial benefits and guaranteed access that come with full ownership, without the burdens of full responsibility or maintenance.
Key Features:
- Long-term commitment (usually 3 to 7 years)
- Guaranteed access to a specific aircraft type
- Tax benefits for eligible businesses
- Predictable, contracted pricing
- Upfront capital investment plus potential monthly and hourly fees
What Is Private Jet Charter?
A Private Jet Charter allows you to book a private aircraft as needed with no ownership commitment, membership, or Jet Card. You pay by the trip, and the aircraft, crew, and logistics are handled entirely by the charter provider.
This model is ideal for occasional flyers, travelers whose needs vary from trip to trip, or even fractional owners needing supplemental lift for a mission their ownership doesn’t cover.
It’s important to note that safety standards can vary by charter provider. Always check the operator’s certifications, crew qualifications, and safety record before booking.
Key Features:
- No long-term contracts or upfront investment
- Dynamic, pay-as-you-go pricing not protected by rate lock
- Access to a wide range of aircraft types
- Ideal for flexible or unpredictable travel schedules
- Perfect for one-off trips not serviced by your fractional program
Magellan Jets Private Charter
At Magellan Jets, our On-Demand Charter service gives you access to a global network of carefully vetted aircraft operators who meet our highest safety standards. Every flight is customized to your exact needs, with our 27/7, 365 dedicated team managing all logistics and ensuring a seamless experience.
Whether you’re a first-time charter client or a fractional owner looking for supplemental lift, Magellan’s charter service delivers the flexibility, safety, and service you expect.
Magellan Jets Fractional Ownership: A New Standard
In addition to industry-leading Jet Card and Charter solutions, Magellan Jets now offers a premium Fractional Ownership program built around the Bombardier Challenger 850 — one of the most spacious and luxurious jets in the super-midsize category.
This program is designed for high-frequency travelers in our service area who want guaranteed access, the highest safety standards, predictable pricing, and a seamless luxury experience.
Magellan Jets Fractional Ownership Highlights:
- Challenger 850 with brand-new interior and seating for up to 19 passengers
- 60 hours per year, 3-year term with flexible early exit
- Uniformed attendant and crew
- Guaranteed availability, even during peak seasons
- Premium in-flight experience, including plated dining and wifi
- Guaranteed share repurchase and rollover flexibility
- No blackout dates
- Access to Magellan’s full private aviation ecosystem (Jet Cards, Charter, Aircraft Sales & Management, Business Aviation)
Whether you’re flying for business, luxury, or family travel, Magellan’s fractional program offers both reliability and elevated service, with the flexibility to use Charter or Jet Card for supplemental lift when needed.
How to Choose Between Charter and Fractional Ownership
When evaluating Fractional Jet Ownership vs. Charter, ask yourself:
- How often do I fly?
- Do I want guaranteed access and fixed pricing?
- Am I comfortable with a multi-year contract?
- Do my travel needs stay consistent or vary frequently?
- Is upfront investment a concern?
If you’re flying around 50+ hours a year, value consistency, and want an ownership experience without full aircraft management, Fractional Ownership may be your best fit.
If you’re flying fewer hours or your travel needs change often, charter offers unmatched flexibility with minimal financial commitment.
And for many travelers — especially those with diverse and changing needs — the ideal solution is a combination of both fractional ownership and charter. Fractional for your regular, predictable flying, and Charter for supplemental lift, special occasions, or unique mission profiles.
Looking for even more flexibility?
Explore our Jet Card program here.
Explore Ways to Fly with Magellan Jets
At Magellan Jets, we offer multiple options tailored to your lifestyle and travel preferences:
- Fractional Ownership: For frequent flyers in our service area seeking consistency and guaranteed access.
- Jet Cards: Guaranteed availability, no black out days, fixed-rate flying with the flexibility to switch aircraft types. Options for personal Jet Cards and Business Jet Cards.
- On-Demand Charter: Pay-as-you-go access to a global fleet of vetted aircraft, ideal for both occasional flyers, fractional owners, and full owners needing supplemental lift.
- Aircraft Sales & Management: Support for clients looking to buy, sell, or manage their own jets.
Every Journey is Personal, and our Private Aviation Advisors are here to help you navigate your options with expert care.
Fractional Jet Ownership vs. Charter: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Fractional Jet Ownership and Charter?
Fractional ownership involves buying a share of a private jet, which entitles you to a set number of hours per year and guarantees availability. Chartering allows you to secure an aircraft as needed, with no long-term commitment.
Magellan Jets offers both options. Our Fractional Ownership Private Clients not only have guaranteed access on the Challenger 850, they can also rely on our Private Jet Card and Private Charter services in one place when needed, ensuring they are never stranded.
Which is more cost-effective: Fractional Ownership or Charter?
It depends on how often you fly and when you fly. If you fly 60+ hours per year, fractional ownership can offer better value per hour and guaranteed year-round availability. For occasional and flexible flyers, charter is typically more cost-effective since you only pay when you fly.
Magellan’s experienced team can help you model costs based on your travel needs using a consultative approach to truly get to know you and your unique flying patterns.
What happens if I don’t use all my Fractional hours?
Many programs, like NetJets, make clients forfeit unused hours at the end of the term.
Magellan Jets allows fractional owners to roll over or sell back up to 25% of unused hours annually without penalty — one of the most flexible options in the industry.
What if I exceed my Fractional hours?
While you can sometimes purchase additional hours at a contracted rate, it is unlikely an option with other providers.
With Magellan Jets, fractional clients have the option to purchase additional contracted hours, and also gain access to our Jet Card and Charter services for supplemental lift, ensuring you’re always covered.
Is Fractional Ownership worth it?
Fractional Ownership is ideal for travelers who want the consistency and prestige of ownership without the responsibilities of whole ownership. It’s worth it if you fly often and want guaranteed access, predictable pricing, and a high level of service. Eligible businesses often find Fractional Ownership worth it for the tax advantages
Magellan’s Challenger 850 program offers one of the most competitive and luxurious fractional experiences in private aviation today, with the added benefit of access to charter for supplemental lift when needed.
What is Supplemental Lift?
Supplemental lift refers to using a chartered aircraft outside of your ownership program to fill in gaps when your owned share isn’t available, suitable, or convenient. This ensures you always have a solution for any travel need.
The Bottom Line
Whether you choose Fractional Jet Ownership, Private Jet Charter, or a combination of both, the right solution depends on your travel frequency, budget, and need for flexibility.
At Magellan Jets, we offer both solutions and more, each backed by our commitment to safety, service, and personalization. From high-frequency business travel to once-in-a-lifetime leisure getaways, we’re here to make every journey memorable.
Ready to elevate your private aviation experience? Talk to a Private Aviation Advisor today.
