Buying a Private Jet: A Complete Guide

Steps to Buying a Jet

Choosing and purchasing a jet is a complex, multi-step process. The main steps usually include:

1. Needs Analysis. Determine the intended usage: routes, range, number of passengers. For example, decide whether a short-range jet or a long-range business jet is required.
2. Finding Specialists and the Aircraft. Engage an experienced aviation broker and lawyer, select a suitable model (new or used, e.g., Gulfstream, Bombardier, Dassault).
3. Negotiations and Contract. Agree on price, deposit, financing or leasing terms, sign the LOI and contract, and consider tax and customs requirements.
4. Technical Inspection and Test Flight. Conduct a pre-purchase inspection, check all systems, perform a test flight, and adjust deal terms if defects are found.
5. Documentation and Registration. Complete final paperwork: invoices, acceptance certificate, certificates, aircraft registration, choose jurisdiction, and registration number.
6. Delivery and Commissioning. Register the aircraft under the new owner, arrange insurance, assign an operator, transport to the base, and put it into operation.

Types of Private Jets

They differ by size, range, and capacity:

• Very Light Jets (VLJ). 4–5 passengers, range ~1800 km, compact and economical (e.g., Cirrus Vision Jet).
• Light Jets. 6–8 passengers, range ~3700 km, convenient for regional flights (e.g., Embraer Phenom 300).
• Medium Jets. 8–10 passengers, range up to 5500 km, versatile for short and continental flights.
• Large/Heavy Jets. Over 10 passengers, range 6000–13000 km, premium class with kitchen, shower, and multiple cabins (e.g., Gulfstream G650, Bombardier Global).
• Turboprop Aircraft. Fast propeller planes, range ~3000 km, cheaper to operate, suitable for short flights (e.g., Beechcraft King Air, Pilatus PC-12).

Key Factors When Choosing a Private Jet

Flight Needs Analysis

• Number of flights per year
• Typical routes and distances
• Number of passengers
• Special comfort requirements

Technical Specifications

• Flight range — determines routes without refueling
• Runway requirements — affects airport accessibility
• Flight speed — affects total travel time
• Flight altitude — helps avoid bad weather and turbulence

Aircraft Age and Condition

• New aircraft: maximum reliability and modern equipment
• Used aircraft: cost-effective but require careful inspection

Factors Affecting the Price of Used Aircraft

Maintenance history, presence of modern avionics systems, corporate maintenance packages, and depreciation are key factors affecting price and total cost of ownership (TCO).

Legal Aspects and Regulation

Aircraft Registration

• State registration through Rosaviatsiya (Russian Federal Air Transport Agency)
• Assignment of Russian registration RA-XXXX
• Issuance of registration certificate and airworthiness certificate
• Popular foreign jurisdictions: USA (FAA), Bermuda, Isle of Man, Cayman Islands

Certification and Licenses

• Commercial pilot license
• Type rating for specific aircraft
• Medical examinations and periodic skill checks
• Permissions for international flights, customs clearance, liability insurance

Russian Private Aviation Market

Market growth, statistics on civil aircraft production, development of domestic routes, and demand for charter services.

Financial Aspects of Purchase

• Purchase cost: new jets $3–70+ million, used $1–50 million
• Operating costs: insurance, hangars, maintenance, crew, fuel, airport fees
• Financing options: cash, loans, leasing, fractional ownership
• Taxes and registration: VAT, transport tax, registration jurisdiction

Conclusion

Buying a private jet is justified if you have financial readiness, frequent use, business necessity, and a long-term perspective. Consult with aviation professionals to choose the optimal option for your specific needs.