A Transparent, Predictable, and Simple Path to Private Aviation
Fractional aircraft ownership has dramatically reshaped the world of private aviation, opening the skies to individuals and businesses who might once have thought private flight was out of reach. By allowing multiple stakeholders to share both the costs and the joys of aircraft ownership, programs like those offered by PlaneSense have made private aviation an attainable and strategic choice—one defined by transparency, value, and exceptional service.
The High Cost of Whole Aircraft Ownership
Owning a private aircraft outright may sound appealing, but it comes with a daunting financial commitment. The purchase price of a newly manufactured light jet can easily exceed $14 million—before adding in the ongoing costs of pilot salaries, hangar fees, insurance, maintenance, and other operational expenses. For many, these expenditures make whole aircraft ownership impractical, limiting the experience of private aviation to an exclusive few.
The Freedom of Fractional Aircraft Ownership.
Fractional Ownership: A Smarter Way to Fly
Fractional ownership revolutionizes this equation. Rather than bearing the full cost and responsibility of an aircraft, multiple owners invest in shares of a plane, each enjoying access according to their share size. This approach distributes both the initial investment and recurring expenses, making the dream of private flight viable for a much broader audience.
PlaneSense, a leader and innovator in this space, has demonstrated the enduring value of fractional ownership for 30 years. The company’s commitment to service, safety, and cost efficiency has earned recognition from clients and industry peers alike—including being ranked the #1 lift provider by private flyers in the 2024 Business Jet Travel magazine annual survey.
Understanding the Cost Structure
At the heart of the PlaneSense program lies a layered cost structure designed for clarity and cost planning. Unlike the unpredictability of ad hoc charter flights or the open-ended nature of traditional ownership, structured approach that removes ambiguity and helps owners plan their budgets with confidence.
- Initial Purchase: Fractional ownership starts with the acquisition of an interest in a specific aircraft, entitling you to a set number of flight hours per year—commonly in increments such as 1/16th (50 hours), 1/8th (100 hours), 3/16ths (150 hours), or 1/4th (200 hours). This upfront investment secures access without the burdens of full ownership.
- Recurring Fees: Owners pay regular management and usage fees covering essential services—crew, maintenance, hangar, insurance, and administrative support. This covers all the behind-the-scenes work that makes private aviation seamless and secure.
- Variable Costs: Owners are also responsible for variable costs such as fuel or additional flight hours. These are usage-based, aligning expenses directly with how much you fly, making it a flexible solution for both individuals and organizations with changing travel needs.
For example, a 50-hour share in a Pilatus PC-12 through a fractional program might average around $5,000 per occupied flight hour, inclusive of many ancillary services. Owners also benefit from the flexibility to use other aircraft in the fleet when their own share’s plane is unavailable—a crucial advantage for those who value reliability and convenience.
Transparency: No Surprises, Only Confidence
One of the hallmarks of the PlaneSense program is its unwavering commitment to transparency. From the first sales conversation through every stage of ownership, clients are given detailed documentation that lays out every fee, charge, and contractual obligation. There are no hidden costs, surprise peak day pricing, or last-minute invoices—just clear communication and open lines for any questions.
This transparent approach empowers owners with full visibility into their investment. It’s a model built on trust and integrity, ensuring that every owner understands precisely what they’re paying for and why.
Responsible Pricing and Real Value
The PlaneSense team’s focus on responsible pricing ensures that clients receive outstanding value without sacrificing safety or quality. By leveraging a dedicated fleet and streamlined operations, PlaneSense maximizes efficiency—delivering the experience of private flight at a fraction of the cost of outright ownership. The cost savings are striking: fractional ownership through PlaneSense can provide access to a jet like the Pilatus PC-24 at a fraction of the cost of the traditional purchase price, translating to real, ongoing value throughout the ownership term.
Beyond Cost: Service, Flexibility, and Peace of Mind
While financial efficiency is a major appeal, the PlaneSense program goes further, delivering a suite of advantages unmatched by charter:
- Tax Advantages: When used for business purposes, fractional aircraft shares may qualify for 100% bonus depreciation, similar to whole ownership.
- Service Continuity: Enjoy uninterrupted travel with access to the full PlaneSense fleet.
- Access & Flexibility: Owners have the ability to roll over equity into a new share or liquidate at market value after the term ends—typically five years, with renewal options.
- Customer Service Excellence: PlaneSense’s ongoing recognition for service reflects its dedication to a seamless, client-centered experience.
- 24/7/365 Support: PlaneSense's highly skilled reservations and client assistance team are available around the clock to assist with owner flight logistics and scheduling.
The comprehensive nature of the cost structure, combined with exceptional service, brings peace of mind. Owners enjoy not only the tangible benefits of private flight—speed, privacy, and flexibility—but also the confidence that comes with predictable expenses and no financial turbulence.
The PlaneSense Difference: Trust, Clarity, and Lasting Value
Ultimately, fractional private aircraft ownership through PlaneSense represents more than just access to a fleet of aircraft—it stands for a new standard in private aviation. With complete cost transparency, responsible pricing, and a steadfast commitment to owner satisfaction, the PlaneSense program makes private flight practical, reliable, and rewarding.
For anyone considering the move to fractional ownership, understanding the structure and philosophy behind your investment is essential. With PlaneSense, you gain more than a share of an aircraft; you gain a trusted partner invested in making your journey as smooth and valuable as possible.
