Guides
Private jets, explained by pilots.
You've chartered. You've paid for empty legs, fuel surcharges and somebody's commission. Before you decide what's next, here's how private aviation actually works, from people who fly and fix these airplanes every day.
Start hereCharter, jet card, fractional or your own jet?Which one makes sense, how many hours it takes, and the costs nobody quotes.
CostsWhat does it really cost to own a jet?Fixed vs. hourly costs, crew, engine programs and the surprises.
BuyingHow to buy a used jet without overpayingMission, records, pre-buy, escrow and tax, step by step.
Straight talkWhere your money goes in private aviationHow brokers, managers and shops get paid, and five questions that protect you.
Owner-pilotsCan I fly my own jet?Ratings, single-pilot jets, type ratings, insurance and mentoring.
GlossaryPrivate jet terms in plain EnglishPart 91 vs 135, jet cards, pre-buys, engine programs, RVSM and more.
Watch, too
See the jets from the pilot's seat.
Our in-flight reviews of the Phenom, Citation CJ, Premier, Hawker and Eclipse show what each one is really like to fly and own.
Jet reviews →
Next step
Talk to a pilot, not a salesperson.
Tell us what you fly, what you want to fly, or what needs fixing. You'll hear back from a pilot or engineer.