How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Private Jet From RDU?
- Lindsey Barber
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What Does a Private Jet Charter From RDU Cost?
Based on typical industry estimates, chartering a private jet costs about $3,500 to $5,000 per flight hour for a light jet and $6,000 to $8,000 per hour for a super-midsize jet, before taxes and fees. Your total depends on the aircraft, flight time, trip type, and travel dates. For an exact price, request a charter quote.
So, how much does it cost to charter a private jet from RDU? A solo executive flying to Washington, D.C., and a family of eight heading to South Florida will get very different quotes, even when both leave from Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
The pricing follows a clear logic, though. This guide breaks it down, from hourly rates and fees to jet size and trip length, so you can better understand any private jet charter quote from RDU.
Key Takeaways
- Most charters are priced by flight hours multiplied by the jet’s hourly rate.
- Larger jets cost more per hour but carry more people and fly farther.
- One-way trips may include repositioning costs, while empty legs may lower the price.
- Taxes and fees such as federal excise tax and landing fees are usually added on top.
- Splitting one charter among a group can significantly lower the cost per person.
What Is a Private Jet Charter?
A private jet charter means you book an entire aircraft and its crew for your trip. You choose the departure time, the airports, and who flies with you. You pay for the aircraft, not individual seats.
In the US, on-demand charter flights are operated under FAA Part 135, the federal rules for commercial charter operations. These rules set standards for pilot training, maintenance, and flight operations. You may also hear about Part 91, which covers private flights an owner operates for their own use. Our guide to Part 91 vs. Part 135 explains the difference in more detail.
You can book a charter directly with an operator. You can book through a broker, who arranges flights with operators on your behalf. Either way, the operator is the one responsible for the flight.
Private Jet Charter Cost by Jet Class
Jet size is the biggest driver of charter pricing. The table below shows typical industry hourly ranges for each class. Real prices move with fuel costs, demand, and aircraft availability.
Typical Private Jet Charter Rates by Jet Class
| Jet Class | Example Aircraft | Typical Passengers | Typical Hourly Range |
| Light jet | Cessna Citation CJ3, Embraer Phenom 300 | 5 to 7 | $3,500 to $5,000 |
| Midsize jet | Cessna Citation XLS, Learjet 60 | 7 to 9 | $4,500 to $6,500 |
| Super-midsize jet | Bombardier Challenger 300/350, Challenger 3500 | 8 to 10 | $6,000 to $8,000 |
| Heavy jet | Gulfstream G450, Dassault Falcon 900 | 10 to 14 | $8,000 to $14,000 |
Note: Industry estimates only, before taxes and fees. Your quote sets the final price.
How Private Jet Charter Pricing Works
Charter pricing looks complicated from the outside. Under the hood, it’s mostly simple math. You pay for the time the jet spends flying your trip, then add fees and taxes.
The basic formula: Flight Hours × Hourly Rate + Fees + Taxes = Total Trip Cost
Three ideas will help you read any quote: hourly rates, one-way versus round-trip pricing, and empty legs.
Hourly Rates Explained
The hourly rate is the price of operating the aircraft while it’s in the air. It usually covers the aircraft, crew, fuel, and standard amenities. (See What’s Included in a Charter Quote for the full list.
Ground time is usually billed differently than flight time. Here’s a simple example: a 1.5-hour jet flight at $4,000 per hour starts at about $6,000 before fees and taxes.
Daily minimum: The smallest number of flight hours an operator bills per day, even if your actual flight is shorter.
Daily minimums explain why a very short hop can cost more than the flight time alone suggests. If your trip is only 40 minutes, ask how the minimum applies.
One-Way vs. Round-Trip Pricing
A one-way trip isn’t always half the price of a round trip. If the jet has to fly back to its base empty after dropping you off, you may be billed for that repositioning time. The same applies if a jet flies in from elsewhere to pick you up.
Round trips work differently. If the jet waits for you at your destination, you may pay for waiting days and crew overnight costs instead.
One-Way vs. Round-Trip Charter Pricing
| One-Way | Round-Trip | |
| Repositioning | May be billed if the jet returns empty | Usually not needed |
| Waiting time | Not applicable | May apply if the jet waits for you |
| Crew overnights | Rarely | Often, for multi-day trips |
| Best use case | Single trips, flexible returns | Business trips and getaways with set return dates |
The paragraph above already says empty legs suit flexible schedules.
Empty Leg Flights
An empty leg is a flight where the jet is repositioning with no passengers on board. Operators sometimes offer these flights at a lower price, since the plane is flying that route anyway. Empty legs can be a smart pick if your schedule bends easily.
Empty Leg Flights: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Often priced lower than a standard charter | Departure time and route are fixed |
| Same aircraft and crew standards | Availability is limited and unpredictable |
| Good for spontaneous trips | The flight can change if the original booking changes |
Tip: If your dates are flexible, ask about empty legs when you request a quote.
Choosing the Right Jet Size for Your Trip
The right jet depends on your group size, luggage, and distance. The examples below use aircraft in our charter fleet to show how each class fits different trips.
Light Jet: Cessna Citation CJ3
Light jets like the CJ3 suit shorter regional trips, such as Charlotte, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., or quick runs into the Northeast. They have the lowest hourly rates among jet classes, making them a common choice for solo travelers and small teams.
Citation CJ3 at a Glance
| Spec | Citation CJ3 |
| Passengers | Up to 7 |
| Range | About 1,800 to 2,000 nm |
| Cruise speed | About 415 knots |
| Typical hourly range | $3,500 to $5,000 |
Good fit for:
- Same-day business meetings in nearby cities
- Short regional hops with a small group
- Trips into smaller airports closer to your destination
Learn more about the Citation CJ3 light jet.
Super-Midsize Jet: Bombardier Challenger 300
Super-midsize jets like the Challenger 300 offer a stand-up cabin, room for more passengers, and the range to fly longer routes nonstop. The hourly rate is higher than a light jet’s, but the extra space and range often make sense for groups and longer flights.
Challenger 300 at a Glance
| Spec | Challenger 300 |
| Passengers | 8 to 9 |
| Range | About 3,000 nm |
| Cruise speed | About 470 knots |
| Typical hourly range | $6,000 to $8,000 |
Good fit for:
- Larger groups or families traveling together
- Coast-to-coast business trips
- Longer flights where comfort matters
See the details on the Bombardier Challenger 300.
Super-Midsize Jet: Bombardier Challenger 3500
The Challenger 3500 is a newer model in the same family, with an updated cabin and slightly longer range. Its pricing typically falls in the same super-midsize range as the Challenger 300, depending on availability and trip details.
Challenger 300 vs. Challenger 3500
| Challenger 300 | Challenger 3500 | |
| Passengers | 8 to 9 | Up to 10 |
| Range | About 3,000 nm | About 3,400 nm |
| Cabin | Stand-up cabin | Newer cabin with updated technology |
| Typical hourly range | $6,000 to $8,000 | $6,000 to $8,000 |
Want to see what these cabins look like? Read more about super-midsize jet charter in Raleigh.
What’s Included in a Charter Quote (and What Isn’t)
Many first-time charter clients are surprised by extra line items on a quote. Knowing the common private jet charter fees ahead of time makes it easier to compare quotes fairly.
Fees Typically Included
A base charter price usually covers:
- The aircraft
- The flight crew
- Fuel
- Standard cabin amenities
Additional Fees and Taxes
Here’s what may be added on top, and what each item means.
Common Charter Fees and Taxes
| Fee | What It Covers | When It Applies |
| Federal excise tax | A federal tax on the charter price, currently 7.5% | US domestic charter flights |
| Segment fees | A per-passenger, per-leg federal fee | Each takeoff and landing segment |
| Landing fees | Charges set by the airport for landing | Most airports |
| FBO and handling fees | Services from the private terminal (FBO, or fixed-base operator) such as parking and ground handling | Most departures and arrivals |
| Crew overnight and per diem | Hotel and daily expenses for the crew | Multi-day or overnight trips |
| Catering | Food and drinks beyond standard amenities | When you request it |
| De-icing | Removing ice from the aircraft before takeoff | Cold-weather departures |
| Wi-Fi | Inflight internet use | If used and billed separately |
| International fees | Customs, permits, and overflight charges | Flights outside the US |
International trips add their own costs and planning steps. Our guide to jets for international travel covers what to consider. Whatever the route, ask whether a quote is all-in so nothing catches you off guard.
How Trip Length Shapes Cost: Sample Routes From RDU
The routes below show approximate flight times from RDU and the jet class that typically fits. Multiply the flight time by the hourly ranges above for a rough idea of scale.
Approximate Flight Times From RDU
| Route | Approx. Flight Time | Typical Jet Class |
| RDU to Washington, D.C. | About 1 hour | Light jet |
| RDU to Atlanta | About 1.25 hours | Light jet |
| RDU to New York area | About 1.5 hours | Light or super-midsize jet |
| RDU to South Florida | About 2 hours | Light or super-midsize jet |
RDU to New York Area
This is one of the most common private jet routes from Raleigh. Many travelers fly into airports closer to Manhattan than the major commercial hubs, saving real time on the ground.
Airport options to consider:
- Teterboro (TEB), popular for Manhattan access
- Westchester County Airport (HPN), convenient for the northern suburbs
RDU to South Florida
Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, and Naples draw plenty of travelers from the Triangle, especially in winter. Demand climbs during the holidays and peak winter months, which can affect availability and price.
Tip: For winter or holiday trips to Florida, book early. Peak dates fill up fast.
RDU to Washington, D.C. or Atlanta
These short trips are where a light jet often makes the most sense. Many travelers fly out in the morning, take their meetings, and return the same day.
Why same-day trips can work well:
- No hotel stay needed
- The crew can often wait for you, though crew duty time limits apply
- You control the departure time on both legs
Factors That Affect the Price of Your Charter
Two quotes for what looks like the same trip can come back with different prices. Five variables usually explain the gap.
Aircraft Size and Type
Bigger jets cost more per hour. Still, the right jet fits your trip, not always the largest one available.
How to choose:
- Passengers: Count everyone, plus anyone who might join last minute.
- Distance: Longer trips may need a jet that can fly nonstop.
- Comfort: Decide whether a stand-up cabin matters for your flight length.
Distance and Flight Time
Longer flights mean more billable hours. Headwinds, air traffic routing, and fuel stops can add time too. A longer-range jet may skip a fuel stop entirely, which can offset part of its higher hourly rate.
How Flight Time Affects Cost (Industry Estimates)
| Flight Hours | Estimated Light Jet Cost (before fees) |
| 1 | $3,500 to $5,000 |
| 2 | $7,000 to $10,000 |
| 3 | $10,500 to $15,000 |
| 4 | $14,000 to $20,000 |
Travel Dates and Peak Seasons
Demand spikes around holidays and big events. When more people want to fly, available aircraft get booked up, and prices can rise.
Peak periods to plan around:
- Thanksgiving week
- Christmas and New Year’s
- Spring break
- Major sporting events and large conferences
If you’re flying during the busy season, these holiday charter flight tips can help you plan.
Booking Lead Time
Booking early usually gives you more aircraft to choose from and steadier pricing. Last-minute trips are often still possible, but your options may be narrower.
Tip: Book as early as your plans allow, especially for holidays.
Operator Standards and Safety
The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value. All US charter operators must meet FAA Part 135 requirements, but standards above that baseline vary by company. Crew experience, maintenance practices, and safety oversight can all differ.
Questions to ask any charter operator:
- Who holds operational control of my flight?
- How are pilots trained and vetted?
- How is the aircraft maintained, and by whom?
- Do you use consistent crews?
- What’s your safety oversight process?
Read more about how we approach charter flight safety.
Private Jet Cost Per Person: Is Group Travel Worth It?
A full charter quote can look high at first. Divide it by the number of people on board, though, and the private jet cost per person tells a different story. Here’s a hypothetical example using a $15,000 trip.
Private Jet Cost Per Person Example
| Passengers | Cost Per Person (hypothetical $15,000 trip) |
| 4 | $3,750 |
| 6 | $2,500 |
| 8 | $1,875 |
For some routes and group sizes, the per-person cost can approach first-class fares. Price is only part of the picture, too.
Value beyond the ticket price:
- Time saved by skipping security lines and connections
- Privacy for confidential conversations
- Door-to-door convenience with airports closer to your destination
- One schedule that works for the whole group
For more on planning a shared trip, see this guide to chartering a jet for a group. If you’ve assumed private flying is out of reach, these myths about private flying are worth reading.
Charter vs. Jet Card vs. Fractional Ownership
On-demand charter isn’t the only way to fly private. If you fly often, other options may change how you pay. Here’s how the most common models compare.
Ways to Fly Private Compared
| Option | How You Pay | Commitment | Often Best For |
| On-demand charter | Per trip, based on flight hours plus fees | None beyond each trip | Occasional travelers and one-off trips |
| Jet card | Prepaid hours or a deposit, often at fixed or capped hourly rates | Usually a set block of hours | Frequent flyers who want predictable pricing |
| Fractional ownership | Purchase of an aircraft share, plus monthly and hourly fees | Multi-year agreement | High-hour flyers who want guaranteed access |
| Full ownership | Aircraft purchase plus all operating, crew, and maintenance costs | Long-term asset | Very frequent flyers with specific needs |
Terms and costs vary widely by provider, so compare the full contract, not just the hourly rate. For many travelers who fly a handful of times a year, on-demand charter is the simplest option.
How to Get an Accurate Private Jet Quote From RDU
The more details you share upfront, the more accurate your quote will be. Have these ready:
Departure and return dates and times
Number of passengers
Luggage, including oversized items like golf clubs or skis
- Any pets traveling with you
- Your destination airport, or the city if you’re unsure
- How flexible your dates and times are
Here’s how the quote process typically works:
- Share your trip details. Use the operator’s quote form or call.
- The operator reviews your trip. They check your route, passengers, and timing.
- An aircraft is recommended. You get options that fit your group and distance.
- You receive a quote. Review which fees and taxes are included.
- You confirm the booking. After approval, the operator handles the trip details.
For more on what to expect, read “How to Book a Charter Flight in Raleigh.”
Private Jet Charter Terms to Know
Every term is already explained where it first appears:
- Part 135, operator, and broker are in “What Is a Private Jet Charter?”
- Empty leg and repositioning are in the pricing section.
- Daily minimum is in “Hourly Rates Explained.”
- FBO and federal excise tax are in the fees table.
- Crew duty time is now in the Washington, D.C. or Atlanta bullet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost per hour to charter a private jet from RDU?
Is a one-way private jet charter more expensive than a round trip?
Are taxes and fees included in a private jet charter quote?
How far in advance should I book a private jet from Raleigh?
Can I bring pets or extra luggage on a charter flight?
Have more questions? Browse this full list of charter flight FAQs.
Pricing disclaimer: All rates and cost ranges in this article are general industry estimates for informational purposes only. They are not a quote or an offer of service at a specific price. Actual charter pricing varies with aircraft availability, fuel costs, route, dates, and fees.
Plan Your Private Flight From RDU With Flight Group
Now you know what goes into chartering a private jet from RDU. The next step is a quote built around your own trip.
Flight Group has been flying travelers out of Raleigh-Durham since 1994, with consistent crews, 24-hour operations, and in-house safety oversight. Tell us where you’re headed, and we’ll walk you through your options.
Call us at (919) 840-0444 or request a charter quote online. We’d be glad to help you plan your next flight.
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