How Much Does It Really Cost to Fly Private?
You’ve probably heard the myths: private jets are only for billionaires, celebrities, and CEOs, but the truth is it’s more accessible than you think. The cost of flying private depends on the route, aircraft type, timing and a few insider tricks that can slash prices dramatically. Short hops across Europe can start in the low five figures and when you split the bill with friends the per-seat cost can rival business class on a regular commercial airline. Add in empty legs those one-way repositioning flights offered at up to 70% off and suddenly private travel feels within reach.
Let’s break it down.
Short Flights Within Spain or Nearby Europe: €5,000 – €12,000
Need to get from Madrid to Barcelona, or Málaga to Lisbon? These quick jaunts are where private flying starts to make real sense. For €5,000 to €12,000, you’re looking at:
- No security lines
- Boarding in minutes
- Flying on your schedule
The price varies by aircraft (a nimble turboprop vs a light jet) and demand but for business travellers or weekend getaways the time saved often justifies the cost i.e split between 4-6 passengers that’s €1,000 – €2,000 per seat – not far off premium commercial fares.
Mid-Range Routes: Málaga to Geneva or London (€12,000–€18,000)
Stepping up in distance, flights like Málaga → Geneva or Málaga → London typically range from €12,000 to €18,000. You’ll likely fly in a midsize jet (think Citation XLS or Phenom 300) with:
- Greater range and comfort
- Catering and Wi-Fi included
- Direct routing (no layovers)
Again timing matters – book last-minute during peak season and prices climb, but for groups or time-sensitive trips the efficiency is unmatched.
Transatlantic Flights: €80,000 and Up
Yes crossing the Atlantic is a different beast altogether, expect €80,000+ for routes like Madrid to New York or Barcelona to Miami. These flights require long-range heavy jets (Gulfstream G650, Bombardier Global) with:
- Lie-flat beds
- Full galleys
- Crew for 12 – 14 hour flights
While the price is unattainable for most, for high-net-worth travellers or corporate teams the privacy, productivity and direct routing often outweigh the cost.
The Best-Kept Secret: Empty Legs (Up to 70% Off)
Here’s where it gets exciting, empty legs are one-way flights a jet must take to reposition for its next booked trip. Operators hate flying empty so they discount them heavily.
- A €15,000 Málaga – London flight discounted to €4,500 as an empty leg.
- A €10,000 Madrid – Paris route discounted to approx €3,000.
The catch? Fixed dates and routes but if your plans are flexible this is the golden ticket to private jet travel on a (relative) budget.
Pro tip: Sign up for empty leg alerts from brokers like Vela Club to snag deals the moment they drop.
Is Private Flying Worth It?
It depends on what you value:
| You’ll love private if… | Stick to commercial if… |
| Time is your most valuable asset | You fly solo and don’t mind layovers |
| You travel in groups of 4+ | Budget is the top priority |
| Privacy and flexibility matter | You’re okay with fixed schedules |
Ready to Fly Private?
Private aviation isn’t just for the 1% anymore, whether it’s a quick hop to Ibiza, a business trip to Geneva, or a last-minute empty leg to Paris the options are more varied and affordable than ever.
Want to see real-time pricing for your route? Contact us and we’ll find the best aircraft, timing and deals including empty legs tailored specifically to your trip.
Safe travels,
The team at Vela Club
Note: All prices are approximate and based on one-way charter rates for 2025. Actual costs vary by operator, aircraft availability and fuel surcharges.
