Top 10 Considerations When Buying a Fractional Aircraft

As the demand for business aviation remains strong, fractional aircraft ownership has emerged as a compelling option for individuals and businesses seeking the benefits of private aviation without the full cost and responsibility of owning an entire aircraft. However, making informed decisions about fractional ownership are important as potentially millions of dollars are on the line and there are numerous complexities in the process.

“Fractional ownership is an excellent option for people or businesses flying privately at least 50 hours a year,” says Nick Copley, President of SherpaReport, a comprehensive, independent source for in-depth information about the private aviation market. “Once they have established, they fall into that category, they should take these top 10 considerations under advisement,” he explains.

Is fractional ownership the right product (vs. charters, jet cards or full aircraft ownership)?

  • What type of plane?
  • Which fractional operator?
  • What are the real costs?
  • How old and well maintained are the operator’s planes?
  • What is the share’s resale value?
  • Do the preferred aircraft type have enough connectivity?
  • Is the plane available?
  • What are the tax implications?
  • Are there extra terms and added benefits?

 “Making an informed decision involves thorough research, consultations with aviation experts, and a clear understanding of your travel needs and preferences. By considering at least these 10 factors, individuals and businesses can navigate the complexities of fractional ownership and enjoy the benefits of private aviation,” says Copley.

Kim Stevens

Kim Stevens is the publisher of State Aviation Journal, which he founded in 2009. A longtime commercial-rated pilot, he was introduced to state aviation in 1992 as Director of the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics, later serving as Deputy Division Director for the Arizona Department of Transportation's Aeronautics Division. From 2013 to 2018, he was Director of Communications and Operations for the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) in Washington, D.C. Relocating to North Carolina, Kim worked for the Raleigh-Durham International Airport for two years and now concentrates solely on the Journal. Prior to his aviation career, Kim spent a decade in the newspaper and magazine business.