Amalfi Jets CEO Kolin Jones Reveals the Truth About Flying Private

Why It Matters

Understanding the true cost and operational trade‑offs of private‑jet ownership helps ultra‑wealthy clients choose the most financially efficient access model, while signaling growth opportunities for charter and Part 135 operators.

Key Takeaways

• Owning a Global 6000 costs about $3M plus $1M annual expenses.
• Fixed ownership fees include insurance, parking, pilot and crew salaries.
• Most owners lease jets to Part 135 operators to offset costs.
• Fractional ownership offers tax benefits but suffers from scheduling conflicts.
• Charter and jet‑card options provide flexible access without ownership burdens.

Summary

Kolin Jones, CEO of Amalfi Jets, breaks down the three primary ways ultra‑high‑net‑worth individuals access private aviation: outright ownership, fractional ownership, and on‑demand charter or jet‑card programs. He uses the Bombardier Global 6000 as a benchmark, noting a $3 million purchase price and roughly $1 million in recurring expenses for insurance, parking, pilots and crew, even if the aircraft sits idle.

The discussion highlights why most owners avoid full‑ownership costs by partnering with FAA Part 135 operators, which run private‑jet airlines, hire their own crews, and lease the aircraft to recoup expenses. Fractional ownership spreads purchase and operating costs among several investors, delivering tax advantages such as bonus depreciation, yet it creates scheduling bottlenecks during peak travel periods like holidays.

Jones illustrates the dilemma with a vivid example: parking a jet at Augusta Airport without flying it still incurs a million‑dollar annual bill. He also points out the “rock‑paper‑scissors” nature of fractional scheduling conflicts, underscoring the trade‑off between cost savings and guaranteed availability.

For the UHNW market, these insights clarify that flexibility and cost efficiency often outweigh the prestige of sole ownership. Companies that offer charter and jet‑card services are positioned to capture demand from clients who seek private‑jet convenience without the heavy fixed overhead, reshaping how wealth is translated into aviation access.

Original Description

Flying private sounds glamorous but the reality is complicated.

In this clip from Suite Success, host Katie Cline sits down with Amalfi Jets CEO Kolin Jones to break down the three main ways people fly private.

From full ownership to charter and fractional models, each option comes with major trade offs including massive fixed costs limited availability and operational challenges.

The takeaway private aviation is less about luxury and more about logistics cost and efficiency