HOW DOES SHARED OR FRACTIONAL JET OWNERSHIP COMPARE TO WHOLE AIRCRAFT OWNERSHIP?
July 19, 2022
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Owning a private jet outright is something that many private aviation users aspire to, and there is no doubt that it can bring a degree of personalisation, privacy and freedom that is beyond compare.
But it also comes with a set of commitments and considerations that, for some, can outweigh the benefits. That’s why shared or fractional jet ownership is a very attractive option for those who are looking to experience the very best of private jet travel, without these downsides.
If a private jet lease, jet card, or on-demand charter options are simply too short-term for your vision, whole aircraft or shared ownership may be the solution for you. Below we have summarised some of the key differences between the two.
WHOLE AIRCRAFT OWNERSHIP & PRICING</h4 >
Outright private jet ownership is at the very top end of the experience (and cost) spectrum when it comes to private jet travel. Having complete control over your aircraft brings advantages such as being able to choose and customise your private jet’s interior and cabin configuration; access whenever you need to fly with no call-out time; and an intensely personalised service.
However, while this choice may provide unparalleled freedom, it does come with very significant considerations – not only the initial asset purchase but the many ongoing operational and managerial aspects.
Initially there’s the very big question of which type of aircraft to buy; if its capabilities will fit most of or all your travel needs; and how to prioritise your budget. These are crucial decisions, and you will need to work out if you realistically want or can afford to enter into this type of commitment.
Of course, experts are available to help you buy an aircraft and to manage it on an ongoing basis, should you decide to take the step to own a jet outright. This is essential as there are many complex and unpredictable tasks (and overheads) to navigate, such as crew recruitment and training, operational planning, maintenance, fuel negotiations, and insurance – to name just a few.
It’s also important to realise that whole private jet ownership doesn’t usually take away the need for other private jet travel solutions or programmes. Jet owners will find that their own aircraft does not meet their needs on a particular trip (for example if they need to accommodate more passengers) and, since all aircraft will require maintenance, there will be a requirement to source alternative options when your aircraft is unavailable.
SHARED OR FRACTIONAL JET OWNERSHIP & PRICING</h4 >
Fractional or shared private jet ownership is designed for discerning, frequent private flyers, including those who may have considered owning a whole aircraft outright but who are looking for a more approachable solution and more predictable costs – but still with an exceptional service experience.
Essentially, shared ownership offers the main benefits of whole aircraft ownership – consistency, guaranteed access and flexibility – but at a lower and more predictable pricepoint. You also enjoy a hassle-free experience, as the upkeep, maintenance, and crewing responsibilities are all taken care of. Protection from the unpredictable costs associated with owning an aircraft can bring significant peace of mind.
Designed for those who fly 50+ hours per year, fractional or shared jet ownership typically allows you to make an initial purchase of shared equity in an aircraft, along with fixed and agreed-on annual private jet ownership cost, and an hourly transportation fee based on your actual flight time.
Share sizes range from 1/16th (50 hours) to 1/2 (400 hours) with each level giving a percentage of the 800 flight hours available per year on each aircraft. For example, a one-eighth share provides 100 flight hours annually, which is approximately 50,000 miles.
HOW TO SELECT A SHARED OWNERSHIP PROVIDER</h4 >
If you have decided to enter into a shared ownership programme and are comparing providers, you will need to weigh up many factors beyond costs. These include the age and performance of the aircraft; quality of onboard service and amenities (such as catering and Wi-Fi); levels of personalisation and flexibility; and operational details such as the primary service areas, peak days, and fuel price adjustments.
You should also be given a detailed explanation of the provider’s operational protocols including safety ratings, maintenance facilities, and flight crew training and experience thresholds.
At Flexjet we provide shared ownership of our premium fleet of the latest private jet aircraft, which in Europe includes the Praetor 600 and the Gulfstream G650.
Our aircraft are modern, expertly-maintained, with impeccable, high-spec interiors that consider every detail.
Our amenities and service are second-to-none and, in addition to consistency and guaranteed availability, you benefit from the exceptional safety and service culture of one of the world’s leading private aviation groups.
For further information about Flexjet’s European fleet and programmes, please contact our team using the form below or call us on +44 (0) 203 856 8151.
