How Much Does Jet Fuel Cost for Private Jets?

Discover current jet fuel prices and how they impact private jet charter costs. Learn hourly fuel rates by aircraft type and get real-world trip examples.
How Much Does Jet Fuel Cost for Private Jets?
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How Much Does Jet Fuel Cost?

Understanding Jet Fuel Costs in Private Jet Travel

When considering private jet travel, one of the most common questions clients ask is how much jet fuel actually costs. As a trusted private jet charter provider, Global Charter understands that fuel pricing plays a central role in flight planning and total travel cost.

As of July 2025, the average price of jet fuel ranges between $2.10 and $2.20 per gallon across most global markets. In the United States, jet fuel is currently averaging $2.14 per gallon. In the United Kingdom, the average price is approximately $2.04 per gallon, or £0.95 per liter. Globally, the spot price of jet fuel remains steady at around $89 to $90 per barrel.

These rates provide a helpful benchmark, but what do they actually mean when operating a private jet?

Private Jet Fuel Cost Per Hour

Unlike commercial airlines, where fuel costs are distributed among many passengers, charter flights carry only a small group of travelers. As a result, fuel use per hour becomes a key factor in determining the hourly cost of a private jet hire.

The amount of fuel burned per hour varies significantly depending on the size and class of the aircraft. A very light jet like the Eclipse 500 burns around 70 gallons per hour, which at current prices results in approximately $150 per hour in fuel cost. At the other end of the range, a large cabin jet such as the Gulfstream G550 can burn between 450 and 500 gallons per hour, resulting in a fuel cost between $960 and $1,070 per hour.

Midsize jets like the Citation XLS Plus typically burn around 210 gallons per hour, costing close to $450 per hour. Super midsize jets such as the Challenger 350 use approximately 300 gallons an hour, which translates to about $640 in hourly fuel cost.

Private Jet Fuel Cost Per Hour

Estimated Fuel Cost Per Hour by Jet Category

Here’s a breakdown of average hourly fuel costs by aircraft class:

Jet Type Fuel Burn (Gallons/Hour) Estimated Fuel Cost/Hour (USD)
Very Light Jet 60 to 90 $120 to $190
Light Jet 120 to 150 $250 to $320
Midsize Jet 180 to 250 $385 to $540
Super Midsize Jet 260 to 320 $555 to $685
Large Cabin Jet 300 to 500 $640 to $1,070
Ultra Long Range Jet 400 to 600 $850 to $1,280

These ranges reflect averages. Actual consumption may vary slightly based on altitude, speed, weight, and weather conditions.

How Much Fuel Do Private Jets Burn Per Hour?

Fuel consumption varies by aircraft type, but average rates offer a helpful guide for planning. The Phenom 300 burns about 140 gallons per hour, while the Citation XLS Plus uses around 210 gallons. The Challenger 350 consumes roughly 300 gallons, making it efficient for longer domestic routes.

For long range travel, the Gulfstream G550 typically burns 450 gallons per hour, and the Dassault Falcon 8X can use up to 490 gallons. Actual burn may differ slightly depending on flight conditions and passenger load.

Fuel Use on Typical Charter Flights

To better understand real-world costs, let us look at two common charter flight routes.

A New York to Miami flight covers approximately 1,100 nautical miles and takes between two and a half to three hours, depending on the aircraft type:

  • A light jet would consume around 1,200 gallons, which would cost approximately $2,500
  • A midsize jet might use 2,200 gallons, totaling around $4,700 in fuel expenses
  • A large cabin jet could burn as much as 4,000 gallons, which equals about $8,600

For a longer international route such as New York to London, an ultra long range jet like the Falcon 8X may use between 5,500 and 6,500 gallons of fuel. At a rate of $2.14 per gallon, the total cost for fuel alone ranges from $11,700 to $13,900.

Fuel Use on Typical Charter Flights

Fly Smarter and Greener with Global Charter

At Global Charter we are dedicated to making private jet travel more sustainable. Learn how you can reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying the luxury and convenience of private aviation by exploring Global Charter’s Carbon Offset Program.

If you are interested in eco friendly options check out our blog on the most fuel efficient private jets. Experience greener travel without sacrificing comfort or style.

To deepen your understanding of the fuels that power private jets visit our detailed guide on the types of jet fuel. Stay informed and make choices that reflect your values and travel needs.

Plan Your Flight with Confidence

Jet fuel costs are a key factor in private jet pricing and trip planning. Global Charter provides access to a global fleet for any journey whether short regional flights or complex international trips. We manage every detail from aircraft selection to flight logistics and fuel transparency so you can focus on your destination.

Request a quote today to get a custom estimate and learn how fuel costs impact your private jet charter.

Last Updated:  
July 14, 2025
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