Private Jet Charter Fees: What Your Estimate Includes and What’s Added

Private jet on an airport taxiway with mountains in the background

At Mercury Jets, we prioritize complete pricing transparency. The price displayed in our search results represents the estimated base charter rate for your selected route and aircraft category. Private jet flights are subject to variable taxes, government fees, and trip‑specific charges that can change with itinerary, passenger count, and timing. Because every flight is tailored to your specific needs, the final price is provided in a binding quote prior to charter confirmation.

What’s Included in the Estimate

  • Aircraft charter: the base hourly rate for the selected aircraft category.
  • Flight crew: pilot and co‑pilot, plus flight attendant where applicable.
  • Fuel at current market rates: estimated fuel consumption for the direct flight.
  • Standard airport and handling charges: landing, ramp, and FBO handling at both ends.
  • Basic amenities: standard onboard catering and other amenities included in the operator’s base offering.

What’s Added Separately

US Taxes

These taxes are calculated for your itinerary and always included in your final quote and invoice.

  • Federal excise tax (FET): commercial flights within the 48 contiguous US states are subject to a 7.5% federal excise tax on the air transportation (IRC Sec. 4261). FET does not apply to flights to or from Alaska and Hawaii. It also does not apply to international flights, except those within the 225-mile border zone noted below.
  • Segment fee: $5.30 per passenger for each domestic flight segment (one takeoff and one landing) in 2026 (IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32).

International Taxes

Subject to IRS regulations (IRC Sec. 4261 & 4262):

  • Flights beginning or ending in the US: a $23.40 transportation tax per passenger, each way.
  • Alaska & Hawaii departures: a reduced tax of $11.70 per passenger.
  • 225-mile border zone (a portion of Canada and Mexico): taxed as domestic flights.

European Taxes

Some European countries, including France, Italy, and the United Kingdom, charge per-passenger taxes on private flights. Flights that begin and end within the European Union are also subject to VAT (Value Added Tax). Your final quote includes all taxes that apply to your itinerary.

Variable & Optional Trip-Specific Costs

  • De-icing: the crew decides on the day of departure whether it’s needed, so it’s never included upfront. It’s billed only if used, and heavier snow and ice increase costs.
  • Crew overnight costs: hotel accommodations and per diems for the crew when your trip includes one or more nights away.
  • Fuel surcharges: may apply if fuel prices rise after your quote is issued.
  • Wi-Fi: air-to-ground Wi-Fi on domestic flights is usually complimentary. Satellite-based systems are typically billed after the flight based on data used, and streaming, large downloads, and video calls use the most.
  • Special event fees: FBOs may charge extra during calendar holidays and major events such as the Super Bowl, the Kentucky Derby, and Formula One races. Fees vary by FBO and aircraft size, so ask your account manager to confirm they’re included in your quote.
  • Catering: standard snacks and beverages are often complimentary. Premium catering, from finger foods to meals by private chefs or local restaurants, is priced based on your order, the number of passengers, and the airport.
  • Ground transportation: a chauffeured SUV or sedan, or a rental car waiting planeside. Cost depends on vehicle type, distance, and waiting time, and can rise during peak travel times.
  • Boarding assistance: if you or a guest needs help getting up the aircraft stairs, our ground services team can arrange it through partners who specialize in medical transport and mobility assistance. Request it well in advance of your flight.
  • Cleaning fees: billed after the flight for damage beyond normal wear, such as drink stains, scratches, or tears.
  • Pet fees: most aircraft are pet-friendly. If a pet leaves a mess or damage on board, the crew may request specialized cleaning and detailing of the cabin, which is billed after the flight.

How to Get the Final Price

Request a quote online or contact our expert flight team at +1 (212) 840-8000, any hour. We’ll confirm your itinerary, aircraft availability, and flight details, and then send you a quote with all applicable taxes and fees. Charges that depend on the day of travel, such as de-icing, Wi-Fi usage, or cleaning, are billed separately.

Private Jet Charter Fees FAQs

Are there taxes on private jets?

Yes. Charter flights within the 48 contiguous US states pay a 7.5% federal excise tax plus a $5.30 segment fee per passenger. Flights within the 225-mile border zone in Canada and Mexico are taxed the same way. Other flights to or from the US pay a $23.40 tax per passenger each way instead, and some European countries add per-passenger taxes and VAT. Your final quote includes every tax that applies.

Do you tip a private jet pilot?

Tipping isn’t required, and it isn’t included in your quote. Your crew works for the aircraft operator, so if you’d like to thank them for great service, a tip is entirely up to you. Note that some operators don’t allow their crews to accept tips.

Which private jet charter fees are billed after the flight?

Satellite Wi-Fi usage and cleaning fees are billed after the flight, based on data used and any damage beyond normal wear, including mess left by pets. De-icing is billed separately too: the crew decides on the day of departure whether it’s needed, and you pay only if it’s used.