The Rise of Private Jets in India: Ownership, Cost & Rentals - 2025 Edition

Air travel in India is becoming increasingly congested. Flights are packed, airport lounges are overcrowded, and long check-in lines add to the frustration. As commercial travel becomes more tedious, India's ultra-rich are turning to a more luxurious and hassle-free solution—private jets.

With India's economy growing rapidly and wealth creation at an all-time high, more high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are not just renting private jets but also purchasing them outright. Owning a private jet is no longer just a luxury for business magnates and celebrities; it is now a viable option for entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and even frequent travelers who prioritize convenience and privacy.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into India’s private jet industry, exploring the costs of owning one, how you can rent a private jet, and everything else you need to know about flying private. 

The Private Jet Industry in India

India’s private aviation sector has experienced significant growth over the past decade. According to industry reports, the number of private jets in India has been steadily rising, driven by business tycoons, celebrities, and corporate houses. 

As of November 2024, the number of Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) of Indian descent—those with a net worth exceeding USD 30 million—stood at 13,200 globally. This figure is expected to grow by more than 50% by 2028. The continuous expansion of India’s economy and the rapid rise of its high-net-worth population have provided strong support for the growth of the business jet market.

By the end of 2024, India had the largest business jet fleet in South Asia and ranked third in the Asia-Pacific region, with a total of 168 aircraft, accounting for 14.5% of the regional fleet. India recorded a net increase of 18 aircraft throughout the year, the highest in the Asia-Pacific region. This included five new deliveries and 21 additions from the pre-owned market, offset by the removal of eight aircraft.

Lets Look into the tables below  to understand the rise of Private jets in India even better

Private Jets Popular Among Indian Buyers

Indians are increasingly purchasing high-end, long-range private jets for their luxury, comfort, and ability to travel globally. Here are some of the most popular private jets among Indian buyers:

Top Private Jets Owned by Indians

• Bombardier Global 6500 – Favored for its ultra-long range and comfort, owned by the Adani Group and the Poonawalla family.

• Gulfstream G650ER – Owned by Navin Jindal’s Jindal Group, with a range of 7,000 nautical miles.

• Dassault Falcon 8X – Purchased by the Hero Group, offering a similar range to the G650ER.

• Gulfstream G550 – Owned by Adar Poonawalla and Shah Rukh Khan, valued at around $61.5 million.

• Dassault Falcon 2000 – Ratan Tata owns this jet, valued at approximately $35 million, known for its efficiency and comfort.

• Bombardier Challenger 300 – Owned by Amitabh Bachchan, valued at $25 million, known for reliability and performance.

• Hawker 800 – Owned by Akshay Kumar, valued at about $20 million, recognized as a mid-size twinjet corporate aircraft.

• Boeing 737 MAX 9 – Recently acquired by Mukesh Ambani, one of the most luxurious private jets in the world, valued at approximately $100 million.

Private Jet Market in India (2024)

India’s private jet fleet consists of a diverse range of manufacturers, with Textron and Bombardier leading the market. Below is the distribution of private jets in India as of 2024

Why Are Indians Buying Private Jets?

Private jets are no longer just a symbol of luxury for India’s wealthy—they have become a necessity for industrialists, celebrities, and politicians who need efficient, comfortable, and private travel options. The surge in private jet ownership is being driven by several key factors:

•  Rising Wealth & Demand for Luxury Travel

India’s ultra-high-net-worth individual (UHNI) population is projected to grow by 50% by 2028, significantly increasing the demand for private jets. With more billionaires and multi-millionaires emerging, the appetite for exclusive travel experiences has skyrocketed. The Indian private jet industry is expected to reach USD 37 billion by 2035.

• Convenience & Efficiency

For business magnates and corporate leaders, time is money. Private jets eliminate the hassles of commercial flights—long check-in lines, flight delays, and security clearances—ensuring faster and more flexible travel. Domestic trips, global business meetings, and even quick weekend getaways are now easier with private aviation.

• Event-Based Usage

Private jets have become a status symbol at high-profile events:

1. Ram Mandir Consecration in Ayodhya saw multiple private jets arriving for the ceremony.

2. India vs. Pakistan Cricket Match in Ahmedabad had VIPs flying in private aircraft.

3. Ambani Wedding (2024) recorded over 100+ private jets transporting guests between venues.

4. Bachelor parties, proposals, and intimate celebrations are now frequently hosted on private jets.

Exclusive Services & Amenities

Beyond just travel, private jets offer luxury experiences, including:

1. Limousine pickup & drop-off from airports.

2. Concierge services for hotel and restaurant bookings.

3. Gourmet catering & personal chefs offering fine dining in the air.

4. Onboard spa & beauty treatments for a lavish experience.

Improved Infrastructure for Private Jets

Recognizing the growth of private aviation, India has developed several dedicated General Aviation (GA) terminals:

1. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (2020): India’s first private jet terminal with duty-free shopping and a parking facility for 55 aircraft.

2. Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (2022): Features butler service, a private lounge, and a conference room.

3. Kochi International Airport (2022): A 40,000 sq. ft luxury business jet terminal inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi.

4. Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Telangana (2024): Latest addition to India’s growing private aviation infrastructure.

Favorable Government Policies

The Indian government has introduced pro-private aviation policies, such as:

1. Aircraft leasing and financing schemes in GIFT City, making jet ownership easier.

2. Reduced customs duties & GST for Non-Scheduled Operator Permits (NSOP).

3. Regulatory reforms that simplify private jet co-ownership models.

Now that we understand why private jets are in demand, let's explore the cost of owning one in India.

How Much Does It Cost to Own a Private Jet in India?

Owning a private jet in India is a significant investment, with costs varying based on aircraft type, operational expenses, and taxes. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses involved:

1. Initial Purchase Cost

The price of a private jet depends on its size, range, and features. Here are some examples:

• Light Jets (e.g., Cirrus Vision Jet) – Starts at INR 16 crores.

• Mid-Size Jets (e.g., Bombardier Challenger 3500) – Around INR 250 crores.

• Long-Range Jets (e.g., Gulfstream G650ER) – Can exceed INR 550 crores.

Additional costs at the time of purchase include delivery fees (INR 50 lakhs - 2 crores), airport landing charges (INR 1-5 lakhs per landing), and parking/housing fees (INR 10-20 lakhs per month, depending on the airport).

2. Taxes and Registration Fees

Owning a private jet in India involves several taxes and registration fees:

• Customs Duty: Ranges from 2.5% to 3%.

• Social Welfare Surcharge: 10% of the customs duty.

• Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST):

  • For personal use: 28%.

  • For commercial use (NSOP jets): 5%.

• Aircraft Registration Fees: INR 5-15 lakhs, depending on aircraft size.

3. Operating Costs

Running a private jet involves both variable and fixed costs:

Variable Costs (Flight-Dependent Expenses)

• Fuel – One of the biggest expenses, fluctuating based on route and distance. On average, a private jet burns 200-500 gallons per hour, costing around INR 1-3 lakhs per hour.

• Landing & Parking Fees – Higher at metropolitan airports like Mumbai and Delhi, typically INR 1-5 lakhs per landing.

• Hangar-to-Airport Logistics – INR 5-10 lakhs per year.

Fixed Costs (Annual Expenses)

• Crew Salaries – Pilots earn between INR 50 lakhs - 2 crores per year, depending on experience and aircraft type. Additional crew (flight attendants, engineers) add to the cost.

• Hangar Rental – INR 1-5 crores per year, depending on location.

• Insurance – INR 50 lakhs - 3 crores per year, depending on aircraft value.

• Maintenance & Repairs – Routine maintenance costs INR 2-10 crores per year, with major repairs costing significantly more.

4. Customizations, Upgrades, and Add-Ons

Private jet owners often customize their aircraft to match their personal preferences. From premium leather upholstery and state-of-the-art entertainment systems to jacuzzis and ultra-luxurious bathroom fittings, the level of customization can significantly impact costs.

• Interior Customization – INR 5-50 crores, depending on materials and features.

• Gourmet Catering Services – INR 50,000 - 5 lakhs per flight, depending on the menu.

• Concierge Services (hotel bookings, limousine transfers, etc.) – INR 5-10 lakhs per trip.

  
  

Total Cost Estimation

The total cost of owning a private jet in India varies significantly based on aircraft type and usage. A light jet may cost INR 20-30 crores annually, while a large business jet can easily exceed INR 100 crores per year in operational and maintenance costs.

Owning a private jet is a luxury, but with rising demand and evolving infrastructure, it is becoming an increasingly viable option for India’s ultra-wealthy.

Ownership Models for private jets in India

Here’s an overview of Ownership Models for Private Jets in India:

1. Full Ownership

• The most exclusive and expensive option, where an individual or corporation fully owns the jet.

• Best for high-frequency flyers who need complete flexibility and customization.

• Comes with high acquisition and operational costs, including maintenance, crew salaries, insurance, and hangar fees.

2. Fractional Ownership

• A cost-effective alternative where multiple owners share the jet.

• Owners buy a fraction (e.g., 1/8, 1/4, or 1/2) of the jet, reducing initial and operational expenses.

• Companies like NetJets and JetSetGo offer fractional ownership models.

3. Jet Lease (Operating Lease & Finance Lease)

• Instead of purchasing, individuals or businesses can lease a private jet for a fixed term (e.g., 2-5 years).

• Operating Lease: No ownership, just usage rights, with lower upfront costs.

• Finance Lease: More like an installment-based ownership model, with an option to buy the jet at the end of the term.

4. Jet Card Programs

• A prepaid model where customers buy flight hours (e.g., 25, 50, or 100 hours) on a private jet fleet.

• Offers access to multiple aircraft types without the responsibility of ownership.

• Available through operators like Air Charter Service India and Club One Air.

5. On-Demand Charter

• Ideal for occasional flyers, allowing travelers to rent a private jet per trip.

• No long-term commitment, but costs per flight are higher compared to fractional ownership or jet cards.

• Popular for business trips, leisure travel, and events.

Now, if you are not planning to buy a private jet, you can also rent one. Here are more details about renting a private jet in India.

Renting a Private Jet in India

Renting a private jet in India is an attractive option for those who seek luxury air travel without the financial commitment of ownership. Whether for business or leisure, private jet rentals offer unparalleled convenience, privacy, and flexibility.

Private Jet Rental Services in India

Several companies offer private jet rental services in India, catering to a range of travel needs:

• Paramount Business Jets – Offers charter services to and from major cities like Mumbai, with access to over 4,000 jets worldwide.

• Blueheights Aviation – Specializes in luxury charter services with a focus on safety and customization, operating in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

• JetSetGo – Provides access to a large fleet of private jets, enabling seamless booking and exclusive travel experiences.

• BookMyCharters – Offers private jet rentals across India, emphasizing luxury and affordability.

• Taj Air – An award-winning service that provides private jets and executive airliners for business and leisure travel.

• Air Charter Service India – Specializes in global private jet charters with competitive pricing.

• VistaJet – A premium global charter service with prices starting at approximately ₹9.2 lakh ($11,000) per hour.

Costs of Renting a Private Jet in India

The cost of renting a private jet in India varies based on the aircraft type, duration of the flight, and additional services required.

Benefits of Renting a Private Jet

Renting a private jet offers several advantages:

• Flexibility: Choose from a variety of aircraft models to suit specific needs.

• Convenience: Bypass long security queues and commercial airport congestion.

• Privacy: Ideal for confidential business meetings or exclusive leisure travel.

• Customization: Enjoy tailored services such as gourmet catering, VIP ground transport, and luxury onboard amenities.

Example: Mumbai to Delhi Private Jet Rental Cost

One of the most popular private jet routes in India is Mumbai to Delhi. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated cost:

Route - Mumbai ( BOM ) to Delhi ( DEL)

Distance - 1150 km ( 715 miles)

Flight Duration - 2 Hours

The total cost will vary depending on aircraft type, additional services, and airport charges. Private jet rental remains a flexible and luxurious alternative to commercial travel, offering a seamless travel experience.

Conclusion

Renting a private jet in India is an excellent alternative for those who seek luxury, privacy, and convenience without the long-term financial commitment of ownership. With a variety of charter services available, travelers can choose from a range of aircraft to suit their needs—whether it's a short domestic trip or an international journey. While the costs vary based on aircraft type and flight duration, private jet rentals offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing passengers to travel on their own schedule with top-tier amenities. As India's private aviation sector continues to expand, renting a jet is becoming an increasingly accessible option for business executives, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals looking for a seamless and personalized travel experience.