For travelers seeking the freedom and flexibility of private aviation without the long-term commitment of ownership, jet card programs have become a highly attractive option. Among the leaders in this space, NetJets stands out as the world’s largest and most established fractional jet ownership company, offering tailored programs that provide guaranteed access to one of the most diverse private fleets in the world.
Jet cards, including the NetJets 25 Hour Card, allow customers to pre-purchase a set number of flight hours on a specific aircraft category, typically in 25 Hour increments. This structure delivers the benefits of private aviation, speed, comfort, and convenience, while maintaining predictable costs and avoiding the logistical complexities of full ownership.
For many executives, business owners, and high-net-worth individuals, jet cards serve as a bridge between chartering and fractional ownership, offering a reliable and cost-efficient entry point into the world of private aviation.
Understanding Jet Card Costs
The cost of a NetJets jet card depends on several key variables:
Aircraft size and type
Program tier (25-hour vs. extended hour options)
Fuel surcharges and federal excise tax (FET)
Peak day premiums and service fees
As of 2025, the NetJets 25 Hour Card starts at approximately $208,050 for 25 hours of flight time and includes 290 days of guaranteed access each year. Prices vary based on aircraft class, light, midsize, or large cabin jets, and additional factors such as fuel and repositioning costs. The cost to fly with a NetJets Card starts at $215,000 for 275 days of annual access, which is equivalent to $8,600 per hour. Card 275 costs $215,000, which is equivalent to $8,600 per hour.
For example:
Base Rate (Light Jet): around $205,000 for 25 hours
Mid-size Jet (Citation Latitude): approximately $250,000 for 25 hours
Super Mid-size or Large Jet (Challenger 350 / Gulfstream G450): between $330,000–$500,000, depending on aircraft availability and market conditions
Heavy Jet: approximately $400,000 for 25 hours, offering the ultimate in range and luxury.
Additional costs may include:
Fuel Surcharges – Adjusted monthly based on market rates
Federal Excise Tax (FET) – Currently 7.5% on domestic U.S. flights
Peak Day Premiums – Fees for flying during high-demand travel periods
While these costs may seem significant, they represent a streamlined, predictable model compared to the unpredictable nature of charter flights, where rates can fluctuate widely due to availability and demand. The NetJets 25 Hour Card is often highlighted for its cost-effectiveness when compared to traditional private jet charter or ownership, offering better value and flexibility through its pricing model.
Repositioning costs are another factor to consider, but within the collective service area, repositioning fees are typically waived, which helps reduce overall costs and provides more predictable pricing for customers.
Aircraft Size and Type
One of the most appealing aspects of NetJets’ programs is the range of aircraft options available to cardholders. Whether for regional hops or transcontinental routes, NetJets offers an aircraft category to match every traveler’s mission profile:
Aircraft Categories and Approximate Costs for 25 Hours
Light Jet: Embraer Phenom 300, approximately $205,000; ideal for short regional trips up to 3 hours. A 25-hour jet card for a light jet ranges from $150,000 to $200,000.
Midsize Jet: Cessna Citation Latitude, approximately $250,000; suited for medium-range flights and small groups
Super Midsize Jet: Challenger 350, around $330,000; perfect for cross-country trips with 7 to 8 passengers
Large Cabin Jet: Gulfstream G450 , between $450,000 and $500,000; designed for long-haul international travel
The cost for the Phenom 300 card can reach around $279,000, or about $11,160 per hour.
The Citation XLS is also available in the NetJets fleet and is a popular choice for jet card holders seeking midsize comfort and performance.
Selecting the right aircraft size and type is crucial for cost-efficiency. Light jets provide excellent value for short-haul business trips, while larger cabins are ideal for international executives who require extended range and space for productivity.
The NetJets 25 Hour Card
The NetJets 25 Hour Card is the company’s entry-level jet card, designed for individuals who fly privately fewer than 50 hours per year. It is a private jet card designed to offer predictable costs and flexibility for those who do not want to commit to ownership or long-term leases.
Key features include:
25 hours of guaranteed flight time on a specific aircraft type
No long-term commitment or ownership responsibilities
Fixed hourly rates for transparent cost management
Guaranteed aircraft availability with advance notice
This program typically starts at around $150,000–$208,000, depending on aircraft type and location. For many new entrants to private aviation, the 25 Hour Card provides the perfect balance between flexibility and financial predictability.
It’s also ideal for corporate travelers or families who value on-demand access to premium aircraft without the overhead of maintaining one. The NetJets fleet operates across North America, Europe, and select global destinations, ensuring that cardholders can travel seamlessly and reliably.
Jet Card Options
Beyond the 25 Hour Card, NetJets offers several jet card options to accommodate different flying habits and budgets:
NetJets 25 Hour Card – Entry-level program with fixed rates and guaranteed access.
NetJets One Card – Offers more flexibility in aircraft category and cost, but may include blackout dates or peak-day restrictions.
Customized Card Programs – Tailored solutions for clients who fly more frequently or require international access.
Light Jet Card – A flexible membership program providing dedicated hourly access to light jets, featuring lower hourly rates, fewer blackout days, and ideal for short-haul trips.
Phenom 300 Cards – NetJets offers two distinct 25-hour card programs for the Phenom 300: Card275 and Card320, catering to different travel needs and budgets. Card320 costs $280,000, or $11,200 per hour. The Card320 has fewer restrictions but comes at a significantly higher hourly cost for year-round travelers.
While the One Card may have slightly lower hourly rates, it also includes certain limitations such as blackout dates, peak-day fees, and aircraft substitutions. Clients who value guaranteed availability, particularly during holidays or business travel surges, often prefer the traditional 25 Hour Card for its reliability and simplicity.
Blackout Dates and Restrictions
Jet card programs occasionally include blackout dates, periods during which cardholders may not be guaranteed access to their preferred aircraft due to peak travel demand.
Common blackout or peak periods include:
Major holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s)
Large-scale events (e.g., Super Bowl, major golf tournaments)
Seasonal travel surges (summer vacation and winter holidays)
NetJets manages this challenge through advanced scheduling and fleet allocation, but clients with flexible schedules can reduce costs by avoiding these peak days.
For travelers requiring absolute flexibility, the standard NetJets 25 Hour Card minimizes these restrictions, making it ideal for executives who need to book flights at short notice. Under NetJets Share, you can book with as little as 4–10 hours' notice, while the NetJets Card requires 48 hours' notice.
Flight Time and Scheduling
With the NetJets jet card program, customers can schedule flights with as little as a few hours’ notice, depending on aircraft type and location. There are no minimum flight-time charges, meaning you only pay for actual hours flown.
Additional advantages include:
Nationwide coverage with one of the largest fleets in the world
On-demand flight access 365 days a year
Comprehensive flight support, including crew management and ground logistics
Transparent invoicing and digital scheduling via the NetJets app
Standard catering and in-flight Wi-Fi, ensuring a comfortable and seamless travel experience.
Unused hours in the NetJets jet card program can be carried over to the next year, allowing customers to maximize the value of their purchase. However, remaining hours in a NetJets Card terminate at the contract end date, unlike the NetJets Share program, where unused hours roll over for the following year. This distinction makes the Share program particularly appealing for frequent travelers with consistent flight needs.
This level of operational efficiency makes jet card membership particularly attractive for executives managing demanding travel schedules across multiple cities.
Fixed Costs and Expenses
When evaluating a NetJets jet card, understanding the fixed costs and expenses is essential for making an informed decision about private jet travel. NetJets stands out among private jet companies by offering a transparent pricing structure that covers most direct operating costs, giving jet card holders peace of mind and predictable budgeting.
Upfront Investment Based on Aircraft Type
The primary fixed cost is the initial purchase price of the NetJets card, which varies based on the aircraft type you select. Whether you opt for light jets like the Phenom 300, midsize jets such as the Citation Latitude, or large cabin aircraft for longer journeys, the upfront investment reflects your specific flying needs. This means you can choose the perfect solution for your travel plans, whether you’re flying short-haul trips or require a larger aircraft for business or family travel.
Monthly Management Fee and Ongoing Services
In addition to the card purchase, NetJets jet card holders pay a monthly management fee. This fee covers essential services such as aircraft maintenance, insurance, and ongoing upgrades, ensuring that every flight meets the highest standards of safety and comfort. While the monthly management fee is a fraction of the overall NetJets cost, it’s an important factor to consider when comparing programs and budgeting for private jet travel.
Variable Expenses: Fuel, Fees, and Taxes
Variable expenses, such as fuel surcharges, are adjusted based on current market rates, while landing fees are typically included in the overall flight cost. Federal excise tax (FET) applies to certain flights and should be factored into your total expenses. Unlike some other private jet companies, NetJets offers guaranteed availability and does not impose minimum flight charges, making it a cost-effective choice for those who value flexibility and immediate access to a vast fleet. NetJets jet card pricing includes one set price that covers standard fees, excluding fuel surcharges and Federal Excise Tax (FET).
Comparison with Other Private Jet Companies
NetJets’ approach to fixed costs and expenses is especially attractive when compared to other private jet companies like Magellan Jets or Sentient Jet. With NetJets, you benefit from guaranteed access to one of the industry’s largest and most diverse fleets, including heavy jets and a wide range of aircraft types. This means you can avoid blackout dates and peak days, ensuring immediate entry to your preferred aircraft, even on short notice. NetJets jet card holders enjoy lower prices and greater flexibility than one-time buyers from other private jet companies.
Alternative Programs: Share and Lease Options
For those seeking a long-term commitment, NetJets offers additional programs such as the NetJets Share (fractional ownership) and NetJets Lease. These options provide access to the finest fleet, with benefits like no repositioning fees and comprehensive coverage through a monthly management fee. NetJets Share has a commitment period of a minimum of 36 months, whereas the NetJets Card requires usage within 24 months.
While the lease program may be more cost-effective for frequent flyers, the jet card remains the ideal choice for those who want flexibility without a long-term commitment. NetJets offers predictable pricing in its Leasing program without acquisition fees, making it attractive for travelers who avoid capital expenditure. The NetJets Share program is selected by individuals and businesses with regular travel plans needing short-notice departures.
Cost-Effective and Flexible Private Aviation
Ultimately, the NetJets jet card delivers a cost-effective, flexible, and luxurious private jet travel experience. By understanding the fixed costs and expenses involved, jet card holders can confidently select the program that best matches their specific flying requirements. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, NetJets continues to set the standard for private aviation, offering guaranteed access, competitive pricing, and a seamless travel experience tailored to your needs.
Comparing Jet Card Programs
When evaluating NetJets vs. competitors such as Magellan Jets, Sentient Jet, and Flexjet, several distinctions stand out:
Comparison of Entry-Level Jet Card Programs
NetJets: 25 Hour Card; guaranteed availability; possible limited peak day fees; extensive fleet access; starting cost around $205,000 for 25 hours.
Flexjet: 25 Hour Red Label Card; guaranteed availability; moderate peak day fees; diverse fleet access; starting cost around $190,000 for 25 hours.
Sentient Jet: Jet Card; guaranteed availability; peak day fees applicable; partner fleet access; starting cost around $180,000 for 25 hours.
Magellan Jets: Jet Card; guaranteed availability; peak day fees applicable; partner fleet access; starting cost around $175,000 for 25 hours.
While competitors may offer lower starting prices, NetJets distinguishes itself through fleet size, operational control, and service reliability. Unlike some programs that lease aircraft from third-party operators, NetJets maintains direct ownership and management of its fleet, ensuring consistent quality, safety, and availability.
In addition to jet cards and fractional ownership, some providers offer lease programs, which are designed for high-usage customers who want predictable expenses and flexibility. Lease programs typically provide fixed rates over a specified lease term and often include crew, maintenance, and fuel, making them a cost-effective solution for frequent travelers who wish to avoid large upfront deposits.
Jet Card Benefits
The benefits of owning a NetJets jet card go beyond convenience; they reflect the operational and experiential edge of one of the world’s most trusted private aviation brands.
Key benefits include:
Guaranteed aircraft access within 4–24 hours
Fixed hourly rates for budgeting accuracy
World-class safety and maintenance standards
Dedicated account management and concierge support
No repositioning fees within standard service areas
Access to a global fleet of over 750 aircraft
No long-term commitments required, offering greater flexibility compared to other private aviation options
Jet card holders also enjoy onboard amenities such as Wi-Fi, catering, and de-icing, depending on the selected aircraft and route. This level of reliability and consistency appeals to discerning travelers who expect professional service every time they fly.
Choosing the Right Jet Card
Selecting the right jet card program depends on several factors, including:
Frequency of travel (occasional vs. regular flyer)
Average trip length and distance
Passenger count and baggage needs
Preferred aircraft type and comfort level
Budget and tax considerations
For instance, a business owner making monthly regional trips may find excellent value in the Phenom 300 25 Hour Card, while an executive with transcontinental demands might prefer the Citation Latitude or Challenger 350 program for greater range and cabin comfort.
Fractional jet ownership may become more cost-effective for those exceeding 50–75 flight hours annually, but jet cards remain the most flexible solution for travelers who prioritize simplicity, control, and immediate access.
Final Thoughts: The Smart Way to Fly Private
The NetJets 25 Hour Card provides a practical and refined gateway into the world of private aviation. It combines predictable pricing, guaranteed access, and industry-leading service, making it ideal for professionals and families who want the advantages of private flying without the commitments of ownership.
Understanding the true costs and benefits of jet card programs allows prospective clients to make informed decisions about how they fly. For many, the NetJets model delivers the right balance between cost efficiency and convenience, setting the standard for private air travel worldwide. The NetJets Card is aimed at occasional travelers with flexible plans seeking all-inclusive access, making it a versatile option for those who prioritize simplicity and convenience.
Next Steps
Ready to explore the smarter way to fly private? Visit FractionalJetOwnership.com to learn how fractional ownership and jet card programs like NetJets can transform your travel experience.
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