Private jet costs in the USA include high purchase prices and ongoing expenses

Flying a private jet in the USA involves significant costs beyond the initial purchase. Prices for jets vary widely, with light jets starting around $8 million and heavy jets costing over $23 million. Ongoing expenses include fuel, crew salaries, and airport fees. Operating costs can range from $720 to $3,000 per flight hour, depending on the jet size. Maintenance is also costly, with annual inspections for larger jets reaching $500,000 and engine overhauls costing up to $3 million. For occasional travelers, chartering a jet is often more economical than ownership. Charter costs range from $5,000 to $11,000, depending on the jet type. Ownership is typically cost-effective only for those flying 100 to 300 hours annually.