If you’re exploring private aviation, chances are you’re weighing your options between chartering flights on demand and investing in a jet card program. Both approaches offer unique benefits, and the right choice comes down to how often you fly and what matters most to you: flexibility, predictability, or convenience.

Let’s Talk About Chartering

Imagine you’re planning a single trip, maybe a weekend getaway or a one-off business meeting in another city. Chartering lets you book a private jet for that specific journey, with no long-term commitments or upfront payments. You choose the type of aircraft and pay based on factors like flight time, distance, and the size of the plane.

Chartering is especially attractive for travelers who fly fewer than 25 hours a year. It’s all about freedom, you get to select the perfect jet for the occasion and adjust your schedule without being tied to contracts. But it’s worth noting that prices can vary. Flying during peak travel times, such as holidays, can be more expensive, and there’s always the chance your preferred aircraft might not be available at the last minute.

Understanding Jet Cards

Now, if you’re someone who spends more time in the air -say, 25 to 50 hours annually- a jet card might be a better fit. Jet cards work like a prepaid travel program. You pay upfront for a set number of flight hours or a monetary balance that you can redeem for flights. The big advantage here is predictability. With fixed hourly rates, you know exactly what your flight will cost, no surprises.

Take Flygreen’s jet card, Apex, as an example. Designed for frequent flyers, Apex ensures guaranteed access to a range of aircraft, from light jets for shorter hops to long-range jets for cross-country trips. Plus, the fixed hourly rates mean you can plan your travel expenses without worrying about fluctuating costs. Apex is also limited to North America, making it a cost-effective solution if your travel needs are regional.

What About Flexibility?

Flexibility is where these options start to diverge. Chartering gives you ultimate control over every trip. You can pick the jet, the route, and the timing, with no obligations to stick to a particular program. It’s perfect for those who need a tailored solution for each flight.

Jet cards, on the other hand, are all about convenience. Programs like Apex take the hassle out of booking flights. With guaranteed aircraft availability, you don’t need to worry about whether a plane will be ready when you need it. While this structured approach is great for frequent flyers, it may not suit those who value the ability to switch things up for every trip.

Which Option Saves You Money?

Cost is always an important consideration. Chartering is a pay-as-you-go model, so there’s no upfront financial commitment. This can be appealing for infrequent travelers, but the per-hour cost of a charter can sometimes exceed what you’d pay with a jet card.

Jet cards, while requiring a significant initial payment, often deliver better value for frequent flyers. Apex, for example, is positioned as a more cost-effective alternative to fractional ownership, saving you money while still giving you the flexibility to choose different aircraft for different trips.

Finding the Best Fit

So how do you choose? If you only fly occasionally and want maximum freedom to customize your travel, chartering is the way to go. But if you’re logging regular hours in the air, a jet card like Apex offers the consistency, cost predictability, and ease of use that can simplify your travel life.

In the end, it’s about aligning your choice with your needs. Whether it’s the spontaneity of chartering or the streamlined efficiency of a jet card, private aviation lets you focus on what matters most: getting to your destination comfortably and conveniently. If predictability and guaranteed access are priorities, exploring jet card programs like Flygreen’s Apex might be the next step in refining your private travel experience.

Still deciding which option is right for you? Our jet charter executives are here to help. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of chartering and jet cards like Apex, and let us assist you in planning your next trip.