Flight time
The basis of a charter price is the time the aircraft spends in the air. A faster aircraft covers the same distance in less time, but its hourly cost is usually higher.
Aircraft class
Light jets are economical over short and medium distances with few passengers. Midsize and large cabin jets offer more passengers, baggage and range; their cost rises accordingly.
Positioning the aircraft
If the aircraft is not at your departure point, it has to fly there empty. That flight is part of the cost too. It is the main reason prices differ between companies for the same route.
Return and waiting
On a round trip, the aircraft can wait for you at the destination or return to base and come back later. Which is better depends on the waiting time; the company works this out in its quote.
Airport and ground handling
Landing and parking fees, the private terminal and ground handling, and night or peak-hour charges vary by airport.
Date and season
Demand rises for holiday areas in summer and for host cities on major event days. Flexible dates bring more options.
For a better price
- If your dates are flexible, say so.
- The smallest aircraft class that fits your group is enough.
- Look at jets returning empty on the same route (empty legs): the aircraft is flying anyway, so the price is often lower.