Your comprehensive guide to private air charter with ELEVATE
Booking a private jet for the first time can be both thrilling and overwhelming. At ELEVATE, we pride ourselves on simplifying the process and guiding you every step of the way. Discover more about private air charter here.
Private jet charter services from ELEVATE - Saving you time, money, and giving you control.
Travel in comfort and style with ELEVATE’s bespoke private air charter service. Let ELEVATE tailor private air transportation that meets your needs and budget. Our private jet charter services are highly personalized based on your preferences. You choose the airports on your schedule on the plane that’s right for your comfort and budget.
Say goodbye to busy commercial airports
Chartering a private jet can be the perfect solution to avoid the chaos of commercial air travel. Flying private with ELEVATE eliminates the hassles of commercial travel—no long check-ins, lines, delays, or terminal waits. Lengthy ground delays become a thing of the past. You’ll also be able to select from thousands of smaller less congested airports with private facilities, often located closer to where you live or work. Let us find the most convenient solution for you.
Take back your time and fly on your schedule
Your time machine awaits. No more rushing to catch flights or adjusting your plans to fit rigid airline schedules. Your aircraft is ready on the tarmac, letting you drive up and take off in minutes. The biggest advantage? Complete control over your schedule. With ELEVATE, you're not just a passenger; you're in charge, setting the pace and enjoying travel on your terms.
Arrive rested, relaxed, ready to hit the boardroom..
For business travelers, private jet charters save time and enhance productivity. They offer the privacy to work or hold meetings in-flight, with the added benefit of controlling who’s on board. Many flights include complimentary Wi-Fi and air-text services to keep you connected. On longer journeys, larger aircraft feature real beds prepared by flight attendants, ensuring you can rest fully. Seamless ground transportation provides a smooth transition from jet to car, while expedited arrival formalities at international destinations save you even more time. With the flexibility of flying on your schedule, you can accomplish more in a single day.
.. the beach, the slopes, or a special event.
Start your vacation before you even reach the airport. With ELEVATE, private air charter is about more than the destination—it’s about savoring every moment of the journey from the moment you leave your home. Planning something special? Perhaps you’re considering chartering a private jet for a honeymoon, a custom private jet experience to that special hard to reach destination, or a luxury event. Let us customize your flight for an unforgettable experience. From ski trips to tropical escapes, ELEVATE gets you closer to where you want to be with ease.
Luxury onboard
Enjoy luxurious interiors with spacious leather seating and tailored amenities. We love pets! Travel with your furry friend by your side, not in the cargo hold.
Personalized and cost-effective private jet travel, ready for personal indulgence or to share with friends or family
Choosing ELEVATE for your private air charter means enjoying the luxury of a personalized aircraft without the commitments of aircraft ownership, costly jet cards, or membership fees. Our pay-as-you-go model offers the flexibility and financial savvy that today’s travelers seek. Share the journey with friends or family, making your trips not just exclusive but also cost-effective and memorable. Pay only for what you need, knowing that your money isn’t sitting in someone else’s account.
About ELEVATE
Choosing ELEVATE for your private air charter means benefiting from over 30 years of unparalleled industry expertise. We go beyond basic charter arrangements, delivering exceptional service and meticulous attention to safety and detail. Discover our unique approach and what sets ELEVATE apart in the private air charter industry.
Ready for takeoff?
Are you considering private air travel for the first time? You can trust ELEVATE’s more than 30 years of aviation and customer service know-how to make your first or next private air charter a seamless experience. Explore our many resources in this section and discover how chartering private aircraft will upgrade your life by giving you control over your travel. Let us take you under our wing and show you the exceptional world of private air charter.
Understanding cost
How much does it cost to charter a private jet? Learn about private jet hourly rates, and the typical costs to charter a jet in the next section. You don’t need to belong to a club, or purchase costly “jet cards” that require large up-front investments, in order to fly on a private jet from ELEVATE. If you envision travelling fewer than 25 hours per year and want the flexibility to choose from a range of aircraft best suited for each trip, then you’ve come to the right place.
Explore the vetted fleet
Understanding the types of private aircraft available is key to making the right choice. At ELEVATE, we offer access to a diverse, safety-vetted fleet of privately owned aircraft tailored to various missions and budgets. Unlike many membership programs, you’re not locked into specific aircraft types and enjoy broader options. As an ARGUS-registered aviation business, ELEVATE ensures the same safety standards and access to top-tier pilots as larger programs.
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Private aircraft from ELEVATE
From the smallest turboprops to the largest VIP airliners—and everything in between—we have an aircraft to suit your needs and budget.
Learn more by selecting one of the types below or exploring our detailed Guide. View interior and exterior photos, cabin layouts, and specifications.
Aircraft primer: Turboprops, Light Jets and Midsize Jets
Aircraft in the light and midsize categories feature more compact cabins, offering efficient and comfortable seating for shorter journeys.
Turboprops are often the most economical choice for short flights and their cabins are similar to those of many light jets.
Very Light Jets have a flying range similar to most turboprops. This may be a cost-effective small jet solution if your flight is going to be between 2 and 3 hours in duration.
Light jets typically enable flights of up to 3 hours. They're fast and ideal for shorter trips but are not adequate for longer distances such as transcontinental travel, even with a stopover.
Midsize Jets are roomier than a light jet with similar onboard amenities. Typical flight endurance is roughly 4 hours, but some can fly farther.
Piston-engined aircraft are small propeller driven aircraft and are both a practical and economical choice either for island hopping, or to reach some of the shortest airstrips.
Aircraft primer: Super- Midsize Jets to Ultra Long Range Jets and beyond
Jets in the Super-Midsize, Large Cabin, and Ultra-Long-Range categories feature progressively longer and taller cabins and a broader range of onboard amenities.
Super-Midsize Jets are designed for flights of 5-6 hours and therefore a good choice for crossing continental North America, or from the U.S. and Canada to the Caribbean.
Large Cabin Jets provide 7–8 hours of uninterrupted flight, making them ideal for overwater routes such as from the East Coast of North America to Europe or from Europe to the Middle East.
Ultra-Long Range Jets are capable of flights lasting 12 hours or more, these jets connect you effortlessly to distant destinations, such as from North America or Europe to Asia.
VIP and Commercial Airliners are best for large groups or, in the case of the former, have very specific cabin requirements.
Meet the fleet.
Learn more about different private jets and decipher aviation terminology in our detailed Guide To The Most Popular Charter Jets.
How much does it cost to charter a private jet?
Navigating the world of private jet charter costs can seem daunting, but ELEVATE makes it transparent and straightforward. Below we present an overview of average hourly aircraft rental rates, giving you a clear picture of what to expect when planning your private air travel.
At ELEVATE, we pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing tailored to your specific needs and budget. Whether you're planning a quick business trip or a luxurious getaway, we have the expertise to design the perfect journey for you. Get a quote.
Light jets and Turboprops
Efficiency and convenience.
Light jets and turboprops are the epitome of efficiency in private air travel, and a good starting point for those on a budget. While these aircraft are more basic and may have limited onboard amenities, they offer advantages in speed and convenience. Their size enables you to depart from many smaller airports instead of driving to much larger, and often congested hubs.
Smaller private aircraft average hourly charter rates (U.S. Dollars) before fees/taxes
Midsize, Large Cabin, and Ultra Long-Range jets
Comfort and luxury.
For those seeking a blend of comfort, luxury, and performance, our range of midsize, super -midsize, large cabin and ultra-long-range jets is the perfect choice. Enjoy the speed and convenience of private charter with the added benefits of spacious cabins and a variety of luxury onboard amenities.
Larger private aircraft average hourly charter rates (U.S. Dollars) before fees/taxes
Disclaimer: The figures above show typical market rates as of Q4, 2024. Hourly rates may vary due to factors like aircraft age, features, fuel prices, demand, and location. Taxes and trip-specific fees are not included in the data above.
Understanding the cost of chartering a private jet - what’s behind the numbers
Private charter pricing is based on the cost of owning and operating an aircraft, as well as the value it delivers to users. Expand this section to learn more.
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All the benefits of a private plane without the cost of owning one
For those flying fewer than 50 hours per year, chartering is the most practical cost effective option. Chartering a private jet,
Provides maximum flexibility without the commitment or overhead of ownership*.
Ideal for occasional travelers or those with highly variable travel schedules
*Overhead costs include such items as storage, insurance, maintenance, hiring and paying pilots.
Chartering lets you choose the ideal aircraft for each trip based on distance and group size, paying only for the time you use it.
A small aircraft may be ideal for short trips with a few passengers, while larger aircraft offer more seating and range for longer flights. Even if you travel just once or twice a year, selecting the right plane for each trip can save you money.
Understanding Private Jet Charter Costs
Private jet charter costs consist of three main components:
1. Base hourly charter rate
The base rate depends on the aircraft type, reflecting its operating costs. Luxurious jets with transcontinental capabilities cost more than smaller aircraft designed for shorter trips.
Example 1: A nine-seat Beechcraft King Air 300 series turboprop, costing over $8 million to purchase, typically charters for around $5,000 per hour. Ideal for flights under 2 hours and accessing airports with short runways, it’s a cost-effective choice for smaller budgets.
Example 2: A nine-seat Bombardier Challenger 3500, priced at $26 million, has a charter rate of about $10,000 per hour. Perfect for transcontinental flights, it offers luxury amenities and a range exceeding 3,000 miles.
2. Positioning costs and daily minimums
These include moving the plane to your chosen airport and any minimum hourly usage requirements. Some aircraft, especially larger jets, may charge for minimum hours even if your flight is relatively short. ELEVATE minimizes these costs by selecting aircraft optimally positioned for your trip.
3. Other charges, fees, and taxes
Additional costs include:
-Airport surcharges during peak travel days and holidays
-Fuel surcharges based on aircraft type, distance, and fuel prices
-Crew expenses for hotels, meals, and pilot per diems
-Landing and handling fees, varying by airport and aircraft
-Taxes: U.S. domestic flights incur a 7.5% Federal Excise Tax (FET) and a small per-passenger segment fee. International flights may involve Value Added Taxes (VAT) or customs-related handling fees.
Did you know?
Trips to international destinations, like Mexico or the Caribbean, may cost more due to handling fees and customs charges.
Meal catering is extra on flights within North America, while meal catering is generally included in Europe and other regions.
De-icing fees for winter operations are separate and apply only when necessary to ensure aircraft safety.
By understanding these components, you can make informed decisions and maximize the value of your private air charter experience.
Competitive private air charter pricing tailored to your needs
At ELEVATE, we are committed to providing competitive and transparent pricing. We aim to make your private jet charter experience not only luxurious and comfortable but also cost-effective. Let us help you find the best option to suit your budget and travel needs.
Frequently asked questions about private air travel
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Safety is our top priority at ELEVATE. As an ARGUS aviation business, we ensure all chartered aircraft meet strict government regulations, with independent oversight and a two-pilot requirement for maximum safety. Learn more here.
Key fact: Private aircraft owners invest millions to maintain safe, clean cabin environments for their executives, and you enjoy the benefits of these high standards when you charter.
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Amenities vary by aircraft category. We encourage you to review our aircraft guide.
Enhance your journey with a selection of complimentary onboard beverages and snacks, or optional catered meals. Alcoholic beverages are often included, depending on the aircraft size and storage capacity.
Did you know? In North America, catered meals are optional, and we can arrange nearly anything for your trip—or you can bring your own food.
For added comfort, a cabin attendant is standard on most large cabin and ultra-long-range charters.
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Private jets don’t have strict baggage allowances; what you bring is usually limited only by the size of the baggage compartment, which varies by aircraft. Small jets typically fit one or two small suitcases and a few personal items per passenger, while larger jets can accommodate sports equipment. Some larger aircraft even offer in-flight access to baggage holds.
Baggage capacity by aircraft type is also detailed in our Aircraft Guide.
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Concerned about your carbon footprint? We've got you covered. Contact us to learn more about our carbon offset option through Terrapass, and fly more sustainably.
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Our aircraft selection guide helps you find the ideal jet category for your travel needs. We’re here to simplify the process, ensuring you book the right plane without overpaying for unnecessary features.
Explore all the details in our Aircraft Guide.
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Chartering a private plane with ELEVATE is an investment in a customized, luxurious experience. For detailed insights into pricing and customizing your journey within your budget, review our comprehensive resource here .
Did you know? Our charter flight pricing is straightforward and all-inclusive, covering aircraft and crew hourly rates, fuel, insurance, airport fees, and all applicable taxes and fees. Winter operations can add costs like de-icing or hangar fees. We believe in transparency, with no hidden surprises.
If you are ready to plan your trip request a quote.
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While rare, flight disruptions can happen due to aircraft issues, airport conditions, weather, or air traffic control. ELEVATE provides immediate, personalized assistance to get you back on your way quickly. If the issue is aircraft-related, we will strive to replace it—often at no extra cost. In some cases, additional costs may apply if a different operator or aircraft type is required, but we will always offer you options.
The bottom line: your investment is protected. If a suitable replacement cannot be found (which is rare), you are entitled to a refund for the unused portion of your trip.
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We offer convenient payment options, including bank wire transfer, ACH, and major credit cards. Please note that credit card payments may incur a processing fee, and short-notice bookings may require upfront credit card payment.
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Absolutely! Most of our aircraft are pet-friendly, and many allow your pets to roam freely or sit on your lap rather than staying confined to a carrier. Any applicable cleaning fees will be disclosed during the booking process.
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Tipping pilots is a personal choice—always appreciated but never expected. If you choose to tip, a recommended starting amount is $200 per pilot.
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Private charters are private. You book the entire aircraft for exclusive use, enjoying personalized scheduling, privacy, flexibility, and significant time savings—whether traveling solo or with a group.
Did you know? The cost of the plane is the same whether you're flying alone or filling all the seats.
Privately chartered aircraft do not depart from public terminal buildings; instead, they use private facilities specifically designed for that purpose, ensuring discretion and privacy
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Private jet cabins are designed for comfort and luxury, offering a distinct experience from commercial airliners. Enjoy spacious seating, larger tables, and amenities like Wi-Fi and entertainment.
Did you know? While private jet cabins may be smaller, they feel roomier due to the absence of strangers and unique layouts, often arranged in a “club style” with groups of facing seats. Seating is flexible, letting you work, relax, dine, or socialize. Most seats feature large, sturdy fold-out tables, far superior to airline tray tables, along with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment in newer or refurbished jets. Explore our Aircraft Guide for cabin examples.
Private jets cruise at higher altitudes than commercial flights, offering a smoother ride above the weather.
Did you know? While commercial airliners cruise at 30,000–39,000 feet, private jets typically fly above 40,000 feet, with some reaching up to 51,000 feet. This means smoother flights, as weather systems rarely exceed 39,000 feet. Higher altitudes also improve fuel efficiency and allow more direct routes, saving you time.
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With private air charter, you choose the departure time.
For a seamless experience, we recommend arriving up to 20 minutes before departure to allow for efficient baggage handling and aircraft preparation. If you're running late, please inform us promptly. Timely communication helps us manage schedules, ensure crew readiness, and avoid unnecessary late fees.