In the world of private aviation, few names are as synonymous with excellence as NetJets. As one of the most established providers of private jet services, NetJets offers multiple ways to access its world-class fleet, including fractional ownership, leasing options, and jet card programs.
With a fleet of more than 750 aircraft worldwide, NetJets provides guaranteed access to private jets for individuals and businesses that value flexibility, efficiency, and privacy. For high-net-worth travelers and corporate leaders, a NetJets membership represents a blend of convenience and consistency, allowing passengers to fly on demand without the challenges of full aircraft ownership. Guaranteed access to a chosen aircraft type is provided with as little as 4–10 hours' notice during high-demand periods for fractional owners.
From its highly trained pilots to its rigorous safety standards, NetJets has built a reputation for cost-effective, comfortable, and reliable private air travel. But with several membership models available, understanding how each program works and how much it costs is key to making an informed decision.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the NetJets membership options, the benefits of each, and the costs associated with joining one of the world’s premier private aviation programs.
Understanding NetJets Programs
NetJets understands that not every traveler has the same flying habits or financial goals. That’s why the company offers a range of programs designed to fit different levels of private jet usage. These private jet programs provide comprehensive solutions, including jet cards, fractional ownership, and leasing, to meet a variety of travel needs:
NetJets Card – A jet card program offering short-term access to private flights without a long-term commitment, making it ideal for those who want flexibility without extended obligations.
NetJets Share – A fractional ownership option designed for frequent flyers who value ownership perks without the full cost of an aircraft.
NetJets Lease – A leasing program providing predictable access to private jets for those flying 50+ hours annually without upfront capital costs.
Each of these programs offers access to the same exceptional fleet, service quality, and operational reliability, but with different cost structures and ownership implications. The NetJets program stands out as a flexible private aviation solution for a range of travelers.
Let’s explore each in more detail.
The NetJets Card Program
The NetJets Jet Card is ideal for individuals or businesses who want the benefits of private aviation without the responsibilities of ownership. NetJets jet card programs are customizable, prepaid options designed for frequent travelers, offering flexibility and convenience compared to fractional ownership or leasing. The NetJets One Card is a more flexible jet card option that comes with some restrictions, catering to those who prioritize adaptability in their travel plans.
With the NetJets Jet Card, you purchase a set number of flight hours in advance, and your flight time is deducted per hour as you use the service. This allows you to pay only for the hours you fly, providing transparent pricing and control over your private jet usage. However, NetJets card pricing does not include fuel surcharges or Federal Excise Tax (FET), which are additional costs to consider.
Key Features
Access to 7 aircraft types across light, midsize, and super-midsize categories.
25-hour minimum purchase, allowing flexible usage without long-term contracts.
Guaranteed availability with 24-hour notice in most markets.
Transparent pricing, with no hidden repositioning or ferry fees.
The NetJets jet card program typically offers prepaid access to flights in 25-hour increments. Additionally, the European Jet Card is tailored for travelers primarily flying within Europe, providing a region-specific solution for private aviation needs.
The NetJets Card functions similarly to a prepaid debit card; you buy a set number of flight hours, which can be used across NetJets’ fleet as needed. When your balance runs low, you can simply purchase additional hours.
Pricing
As of recent industry estimates, a 25-hour NetJets Card starts at approximately $208,000, depending on aircraft type and region. The cost for a 25-hour jet card for a light jet typically ranges from $150,000 to $200,000. A 25-hour jet card for a midsize jet costs approximately $250,000, plus additional charges such as FET and fuel surcharges. A 25-hour jet card on a Phenom 300 as of January 2025 starts at $215,000.
This option appeals to executives, entrepreneurs, and families who value flexibility and predictable costs, particularly those flying fewer than 25–50 hours per year.
Ideal For
Occasional private flyers.
Businesses need ad-hoc private travel.
Travelers are testing private aviation before committing to fractional ownership.
NetJets Share: The Fractional Ownership Option
For frequent flyers, typically those flying more than 25 hours per year, the NetJets Share program provides an ownership-based model with guaranteed access to an aircraft type of your choice. This is known as fractional aircraft ownership, a shared ownership model that allows individuals to purchase a share of a private jet, granting access to the aircraft and associated services without the need for full ownership. Fractional ownership requires a capital investment for a share of a jet and offers flexibility for frequent flyers. NetJets Share requires a larger upfront investment but provides benefits like a longer access period and lower hourly rates.
With NetJets Share, you purchase a share (starting at 1/16th) of a specific aircraft, which entitles you to a set number of flight hours per year. Unlike charter services, which may be less expensive initially but often lack consistent quality, guaranteed availability, and a seamless experience, fractional ownership ensures a higher standard of service and reliability. A fractional ownership share typically starts at 50 flying hours per year and is a long-term commitment of 36 months or more.
Costs include the initial purchase price, monthly management fees, and an occupied hourly rate. These costs can vary based on the aircraft type, the size of your share, and current market conditions. In addition to an upfront investment, fractional owners pay a monthly management fee and a variable hourly operating fee.
Fractional ownership is ideal for those who want the benefits of private jet transport, such as convenience, flexibility, and premium service, without the responsibilities of full ownership.
How It Works
Fractional jet ownership allows customers to purchase a share of an aircraft, representing a set number of flight hours annually (e.g., a 1/16th share equals about 50 flight hours per year).
NetJets manages all aspects of operations, including:
Owners can book flights on short notice, fly from virtually any airport, and even access larger or smaller aircraft through interchange options when travel needs vary.
Costs
Fractional ownership requires three types of payments:
Acquisition Cost: Purchase of the aircraft share varies by aircraft type and share size.
Monthly Management Fee: Covers crew, maintenance, insurance, and administrative costs.
Occupied Hourly Fee: Paid only when flying, covering fuel and direct operating expenses.
For example, a 1/16th share in a midsize jet may cost between $600,000 and $900,000 upfront, with monthly management fees ranging from $10,000 to $15,000.
While this represents a significant investment, fractional ownership provides the feel of full ownership without the complexities or depreciation of managing a private aircraft.
Ideal For
Frequent business travelers.
Companies need consistent, on-demand travel.
Individuals value guaranteed access and predictable scheduling.
NetJets Lease Options
For those who fly regularly but prefer not to make an upfront capital investment, NetJets Lease programs offer the advantages of fractional ownership without purchasing an actual share.
Program Highlights
Designed for flyers using 50+ hours annually.
No down payment or capital acquisition cost.
Monthly and hourly fees similar to ownership programs.
Access to a range of aircraft, including Phenom 300, Citation Latitude, and Challenger 350.
The NetJets 25-Hour Lease provides 25 hours of flight time on a specific aircraft type. A 25-hour jet card on a heavy jet like the Gulfstream G450 is about $400,000, excluding FET and fuel surcharges.
Leasing offers predictable monthly payments and operational flexibility, making it a popular choice for businesses that want consistent travel access without balance-sheet ownership implications.
Ideal For
NetJets Cost and Pricing Overview
Pricing for NetJets programs varies based on aircraft type, hours flown, and selected program. Aircraft size is a key factor in determining costs; larger jets, such as heavy jets, generally have higher operational costs and are suited for long-haul or group travel, while smaller jets are more economical for short trips. Below is a simplified comparison:
Jet Card
Fractional Share
Lease
Additional costs may include fuel surcharges, taxes, and peak-day premiums. While these fees are standard across the industry, NetJets is known for its transparent pricing and lack of hidden repositioning costs.
For the most accurate and current pricing, potential customers should contact NetJets directly, as rates can fluctuate based on aircraft category, location, and demand. NetJets has orders for nearly 2,000 new private jets from Textron Aviation, Embraer, and Bombardier.
Aircraft Options and Fleet Variety
NetJets operates one of the largest and most diverse private jet fleets in the world. With over 750 aircraft and access to 120+ configurations, members can choose the ideal jet for each mission. Popular options include light jets, midsize jets such as the Citation Sovereign, and large-cabin aircraft, offering flexibility and comfort for a range of travel needs.
Popular Aircraft Types
Midsize Jets: Citation XLS, Citation Latitude, for domestic and continental travel.
Super-Midsize Jets: Challenger 350, for coast-to-coast flights.
Large Cabin Jets: Gulfstream G450, Falcon 2000EX, for international journeys. Heavy jets at NetJets are designed for long-haul flights, providing maximum comfort and capacity, making them an excellent choice for extended travel.
Each aircraft is equipped with Wi-Fi, advanced avionics, and de-icing systems, ensuring a comfortable and connected experience. Food and beverage options on NetJets flights are tailored to individual passenger preferences, enhancing the overall travel experience with personalized service. NetJets provides all flights with high standards of safety, comfort, and service.
NetJets also prioritizes safety and maintenance, with every aircraft undergoing rigorous inspections and flown by two experienced pilots trained to exceed FAA and EASA standards. NetJets operates a fleet of 781 private jets as of February 2025. The fleet includes the Embraer Phenom 300, Textron Aviation Citation XLS, Citation Sovereign, Citation Latitude, Citation Longitude, Challenger 350, Challenger 650, Dassault Falcon 2000, Bombardier Global 5000, 5500, 6000, and 7500.
Additional Costs and Fees
While NetJets promotes clear and transparent pricing, it’s important for potential members to understand additional charges that may apply:
Fuel Surcharge: Adjusted quarterly based on market rates.
Federal Excise Tax (FET): 7.5% per flight in the U.S.
Peak-Day Premiums: For high-demand travel dates, such as major holidays.
International Fees: For customs, landing, and handling outside the U.S.
These additional costs are standard across the private aviation industry. However, NetJets’ transparent structure eliminates hidden repositioning or ferry fees, which can significantly affect total flight costs with other operators.
Jet Cards and Flexibility Programs
Beyond ownership and lease models, NetJets’ card programs remain one of the most popular options for new entrants to private aviation.
Jet cards offer:
Short-term flexibility without multi-year contracts.
Access to multiple aircraft types across the NetJets fleet.
Predictable hourly rates and no hidden charges.
This model is ideal for companies needing occasional executive travel or individuals who value the convenience of booking private flights on demand without long-term obligations.
Booking and Cancellation Policies
When it comes to booking and cancellation policies, NetJets stands out among private jet companies for its flexibility and customer-focused approach. With the NetJets Card and other jet card programs, customers enjoy the convenience of booking private jet travel with as little as 48 hours’ notice. Flights can be booked via the NetJets app or phone call, often with as little as 24 hours' notice. NetJets also has a user-friendly website that allows customers to efficiently book flights online, making the process seamless and accessible. This means individuals and businesses can access the extensive NetJets fleet, including popular aircraft types like the Phenom 300, Citation XLS, Citation Latitude, and Dassault Falcon, on their own schedule, making it the perfect solution for both planned and last-minute flights.
Guaranteed Access and Transparent Pricing
NetJets’ guaranteed access ensures that, regardless of your specific flying needs, you can fly on your preferred private jet without the uncertainty often associated with other private jet companies. Whether you’re booking for business or leisure, the NetJets team is dedicated to providing seamless service, from initial inquiry to takeoff. The booking process is straightforward, with no minimum flight charges or hidden repositioning fees, making NetJets a cost-effective choice for those seeking predictable costs and exceptional service. The starting hourly rate for the Embraer Phenom 300 is $8,600, including FET, offering a transparent pricing structure for this popular aircraft.
Cancellation Policy and Customer Support
In terms of cancellation, NetJets offers one of the most accommodating policies in private aviation. Customers can cancel their flights up to 24 hours before departure without incurring additional costs, providing peace of mind for those whose plans may change unexpectedly. For cancellations made within 4 hours of departure, a charge of half the fare may apply, but NetJets often issues NetVoucher credits for future flights, ensuring that customers retain the value of their private jet card or fractional ownership investment.
Personalized Service and Additional Amenities
These policies are designed to offer maximum flexibility and transparency, setting NetJets apart from other private jet companies. With access to a wide range of aircraft types, experienced pilots, and additional services such as Wi-Fi and de-icing, NetJets delivers a premium private jet travel experience tailored to the needs of both individuals and businesses. Each NetJets customer is assigned a personal aviation counselor for tailored advice and assistance. NetJets also offers 24/7 customer service for assistance with bookings and queries. Potential buyers can consult with the NetJets team to determine which program, be it a jet card, lease, or fractional ownership, best matches their travel requirements and budget.
Summary of Benefits
By choosing NetJets, customers benefit from a hassle-free booking and cancellation process, guaranteed access to one of the world’s largest private jet fleets, and a commitment to service excellence. Whether you’re flying on a Citation Latitude for a business trip or a Dassault Falcon for a family vacation, NetJets offers the flexibility, reliability, and cost-effective solutions that make private jet travel truly effortless.
Comparing NetJets Membership vs. Other Private Aviation Options
To determine whether a NetJets membership is right for you, it’s important to compare it with other private aviation models:
Comparison of Private Aviation Options
Charter Flights
Jet Card
Fractional Ownership
Full Ownership
NetJets fills a crucial middle ground between on-demand charters and full ownership, providing predictability, guaranteed access, and professional management without the operational burdens of owning a jet outright.
Why Travelers Choose NetJets
Beyond pricing and convenience, several key factors make NetJets stand out:
Reliability and Safety: Industry-leading safety protocols and pilot training standards.
Global Reach: Access to over 5,000 airports worldwide.
Service Consistency: Personalized flight experiences, catering, and ground coordination.
Fleet Flexibility: Ability to interchange aircraft sizes based on mission requirements.
Operational Expertise: Decades of experience managing private aviation at scale.
These features make NetJets a top choice for those who value time efficiency, privacy, and personalized service over extravagance.
Final Thoughts: Is NetJets Membership Worth It?
A NetJets membership is not just a travel solution; it’s a strategic decision for those who value control, flexibility, and reliability in their air travel.
Whether you’re a business executive optimizing travel time, a family seeking convenience and privacy, or an investor comparing fractional ownership options, NetJets provides a proven model backed by decades of operational excellence. Members also gain access to a network of luxury lifestyle partners, further enhancing the value of their membership with exclusive benefits and experiences.
While the costs can be significant, the value derived from time saved, consistent quality, and peace of mind often outweighs the price for frequent flyers.
Next Steps
Ready to explore the smarter way to fly private?
Visit FractionalJetOwnership.com to discover how fractional ownership and other private aviation solutions can transform your travel experience.
Our team of experts can help you evaluate your flight habits, compare program costs, and identify the most efficient ownership model for your lifestyle or business.
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