NetJets, an American company specializing in fractional ownership, private jet charter, and aircraft management services, was founded in 1964 as Executive Jet Airways. It later became Executive Jet Aviation before adopting its current name in 2002. The company was the first private business jet charter and aircraft management firm and continues to hold the largest market share in business aviation.
The company’s hallmark fractional ownership model was introduced in 1987. This program allows clients to purchase shares of an aircraft, granting them guaranteed access without incurring the high costs of full ownership. NetJets became highly profitable and was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway, owned by Warren Buffett.
NetJets operates a large global fleet with over 750 jets as of 2024. Its fleet includes Bombardier, Cessna, and Embraer models like the Cessna Citation Latitude and Bombardier Global 7500. Most of its aircraft are US-based, with NetJets Europe operating around 120 jets from Lisbon, Portugal.
Clients have several options for investing in NetJets services. They can choose fractional ownership for guaranteed flight hours or opt for jet cards that require less financial commitment but offer limited access. Both options include maintenance and hourly operating costs.
NetJets has expanded into new markets like China and is investing in sustainable aviation initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The company experienced increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a temporary suspension of its jet card program due to high demand.
NetJets’ subsidiaries include Executive Jet Management (EJM), QS Partners (an aircraft brokerage), and QS Security Services. These subsidiaries allow NetJets to offer comprehensive aviation services. The company is also exploring investments in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology.
The fractional ownership program offers clients flexibility with short-notice access to their aircraft. Owners pay monthly maintenance fees but benefit from cost transparency as operational responsibilities are handled by NetJets.
Jet card programs like the Marquis Jet Card provide flexible access without long-term commitments but come with higher per-flight-hour rates compared to fractional ownership.
Executive Jet Management offers traditional charter services and manages private jets for owners who do not need full-time access to their aircraft.
