Introduction to Fractional Jet Ownership.

Fractional Jet Ownership, Fractional Jet Leasing or Jet Time Sharing has been described as a ‘time-share in the air,’ but it’s really so much more. For a fraction of the cost of purchasing and maintaining a jet on your own, you have access to a jet whenever you need, wherever you need it. There are no hassles over finding a pilot, knowing when your jet needs to be serviced, or arranging to have the jet prepared for your departure. With one simple call to your ownership service, all of your concerns will be handled for you. And unlike a traditional time-share, if a co-owner needs to utilize your jet at the same time you do, both of you can be accommodated. Usually, your fractional jet ownership translates into access to a whole fleet of jet aircrafts that will get you where you need to be quickly and comfortably.

A company or individual buys, or leases, a fractional interest in one aircraft . They can use their own aircraft or another similar or identical aircraft a certain number of hours or days per year just as a condo owner can use the condo a specified number of days or weeks per year. In most programs, if your 1/8 interest aircraft is not available when you want it, you can have access to a larger pool of identical or similar 1/8 interest aircraft fractionally owned or leased by others. This concept is expressed in the logo.

Although individual deals vary, there is room for negotiation. In general, a buyer or lessor normally buys or leases a 1/8th interest in an airplane, and can have up to 100 hours per year of usage as part of the purchase. The cost of the 1/8th share depends on the airplane you choose.

You can sometimes buy or lease a 1/16th interest which would include 50 hours, or a 1/4th interest which would include 200 hours. A 1/16th interest in a Citation Ultra has been quoted at a cost of approximately $80,000, and a 1/4th interest in the new Boeing Business Jet at $11,000,000. Each deal is separately negotiated and some have buyback or cancellation provisions.

The fractional interest buyer or lessor will get a "turnkey" operation of aircraft, crews, scheduling, and maintenance on demand.

Naturally, the economics of each situation differs depending on the number of people who will use the aircraft, the value of their time to the company, and the dollars saved in airline tickets, hotels, etc. In general, the following guidelines are commonly used:

• 25 to 50 hours per year - Consider a charter.
• Zero to 100 hours per year - Use charter
• 400 hours per year or more-Operate your own fleet.
• 101 to 399 hours per year (approximate) Fractional Jet Ownership may be the best way to go.

In the long run, the benefits of having access to a private jet can far outweigh the cost of fractional jet ownership. Fractional jet ownership will give your company the extra edge that can make the difference. Imagine having to attend three different meetings all across the country, and yet arriving at every meeting well rested and prepared to get things done.

There’s no rushing to get your baggage checked and pass through clogged security lines or worrying over making your next connection. Frequent business travelers will truly appreciate the easy of traveling in comfortable accommodations that allow for both working and relaxing in the air, while also providing transportation to more locations at more times than any of the large commercial airlines. And nothing says you’re the company to deal with like having a private jet.