For many of Los Angeles’ elite—those living in Beverly Hills estates, Hollywood Hills architectural homes, or Malibu cliffside compounds—private air travel isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. But the question remains: should you lease or own your private jet?
While owning offers unparalleled control and status, leasing delivers convenience, flexibility, and minimal responsibility. Whether you're flying coast-to-coast weekly or need international access from Van Nuys on short notice, the right strategy depends on your lifestyle, flying hours, and investment approach.
Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which option best complements your real estate assets and global ambitions.
🛩️ Jet Ownership: Total Control with Long-Term Commitment
What It Means: Full aircraft ownership (new or pre-owned) through outright purchase or financing.
✅ Pros:
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Customization: Personalize your jet like you would your luxury home in Bel Air—custom interiors, seating layout, entertainment, branding.
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Availability: Your jet is always available when you want it—no blackout dates, no booking stress.
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Prestige: Ownership signals true ultra-high-net-worth status. It’s a tier above fractional or charter.
❌ Cons:
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High Capital Outlay: A new Gulfstream G700 or Bombardier Global 7500 will run between $75M and $80M.
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Maintenance & Storage Costs: Annual operating costs can exceed $1.5M–$2M, not including crew salaries, hangar fees (especially at Van Nuys Airport), insurance, and depreciation.
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Underutilization Risk: If you fly less than 300 hours per year, ownership often doesn’t justify the cost.
Best For:
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UHNW individuals with global business or diplomatic travel needs, private island ownership, or time-sensitive schedules requiring total aircraft control.
✈️ Jet Leasing: Flexibility with Fewer Headaches
What It Means: You gain access to a private jet for a fixed period—typically 1 to 5 years—through a dry or wet lease arrangement.
✅ Pros:
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Lower Entry Cost: Avoid the $70M+ upfront cost. Leasing typically requires monthly payments between $200K–$600K, depending on aircraft type and term.
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No Long-Term Commitment: Perfect for clients who want flexibility or are new to private aviation.
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Maintenance Can Be Included: With wet leasing, the jet comes with crew, maintenance, and insurance built into the lease.
❌ Cons:
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Limited Customization: The jet isn't yours, so design flexibility is minimal.
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Availability May Be Restricted: Especially during peak seasons or with dry leases (no crew/ops included).
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No Asset Ownership: You won’t build equity, and lease payments are non-recoverable.
Best For:
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Los Angeles-based entrepreneurs, entertainers, or executives with variable travel needs who want the lifestyle of jet travel without the long-term capital tie-up.
🧾 Cost Comparison: Ownership vs. Leasing
| Category | Jet Ownership | Jet Leasing |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $5M–$80M+ depending on aircraft | Security deposit + 1st month lease (~$500K) |
| Annual Operating Costs | $1.5M–$3M+ (crew, hangar, fuel, maintenance) | Often included in lease (wet lease) |
| Depreciation | Yes (20–30% over 5 years) | No asset depreciation |
| Customization | Full personalization | Minimal to none |
| Commitment | Long-term (ownership, resale required) | Short to medium-term (1–5 years) |
| Hourly Flying Cost | Lower long-term cost per hour | Higher cost per hour |
🏡 Pairing Private Jets with Luxury Real Estate in L.A.
If you already own a jet or plan to purchase one, your home should complement that lifestyle. Privacy, security, car-to-jet access, and proximity to major private airports are non-negotiable for high-flyers.
Top Areas for Jet Owners:
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Beverly Hills Flats: Minutes from Van Nuys and Santa Monica Airport, ideal for entertainers or CEOs.
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Hollywood Hills: Jet-worthy views, architectural homes, and privacy.
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Malibu: Helicopter transfers from private pads to L.A. airports make it a coastal aviation dream.
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Bel Air: The most secure and private estates, ideal for UHNW families.
🧠 Strategic Considerations
Questions to Ask:
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How often do I fly privately?
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Do I want an appreciating asset (real estate) or depreciating one (jet)?
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Am I building a long-term aviation plan or satisfying a lifestyle need for 2–3 years?
Hybrid Approach:
Some L.A. jet-setters lease a smaller mid-size jet for domestic trips (Cessna Citation Longitude, Praetor 600) while owning a long-range jet (Global 7500, Gulfstream G700) for transatlantic and intercontinental needs.
✈️ Final Thoughts: Aligning Flight Strategy With Lifestyle
Private jet ownership and leasing both offer exceptional benefits—but the best choice hinges on how well it integrates with your lifestyle, financial planning, and long-term goals. For many, leasing provides the flexibility and freedom to fly without the complexity of ownership. For others, owning a jet is a natural extension of the legacy estate they maintain in the hills of Los Angeles.
Just as in real estate, the right private aviation solution must be tailored—not generic.
If you’re looking to buy or lease a luxury estate in L.A. that complements your private aviation lifestyle, explore our exclusive portfolio of hand-picked luxury properties. Our team understands the unique needs of jet-setters and high-net-worth individuals.
