7 Best Private Jet Companies in Los Angeles: Luxury Travel at Your Fingertips
Los Angeles—the city of stars, luxury, and high-flying lifestyles—is naturally home to some of the world’s finest private jet companies. Whether you’re a business executive needing to make crucial meetings across the country, a celebrity seeking privacy from paparazzi, or simply someone who values time and comfort above all else, finding the best private jet companies in Los Angeles can make all the difference in your travel experience.
With LAX ranking among the busiest airports globally and Van Nuys Airport being one of the most active private aviation hubs in the world, Los Angeles offers unparalleled access to premier private jet services. But with so many options available, how do you determine which private jet charter company truly delivers excellence?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the seven best private jet operators in LA, examining their fleets, service offerings, safety records, and what makes each stand out in this competitive market. From on-demand charter services to membership programs and fractional ownership options, we’ve done the research to help you navigate the skies in style.
What Makes a Top-Tier Private Jet Company?
Before diving into our list of the best private jet companies in Los Angeles, it’s important to understand what sets exceptional operators apart from merely adequate ones.
Safety Standards and Certifications
The foundation of any reputable private jet company is an impeccable safety record. The best operators maintain ARG/US Platinum or Wyvern Wingman certifications—the gold standards in private aviation safety. These certifications require rigorous audits of operational history, pilot experience and training, maintenance protocols, and safety management systems.
“Safety isn’t just a priority; it’s a prerequisite,” notes a senior aviation analyst at The Flying Engineer. “The top Los Angeles private jet companies invest millions in training, maintenance, and safety management systems that go well beyond FAA minimums.”
Fleet Quality and Diversity
Premium private jet companies in Los Angeles maintain diverse, modern fleets. This diversity allows them to match the perfect aircraft to your specific needs, whether that’s a light jet for a quick hop to Las Vegas or a long-range heavy jet for international travel. The age of aircraft also matters—newer planes offer better fuel efficiency, more modern amenities, and often enhanced safety features.
Customer Service Excellence
The difference between good and great often comes down to service. Elite private jet charter companies offer true 24/7 availability with dedicated concierge teams that handle everything from ground transportation to in-flight catering preferences. The ability to accommodate last-minute changes, special requests, and unique situations distinguishes the industry leaders.
7 Best Private Jet Companies in Los Angeles
Now, let’s explore the top private aviation providers serving the Los Angeles area:
1. Wheels Up
Headquarters: New York (with major operations in Los Angeles)
Founded: 2013
Fleet Size: 350+ aircraft across multiple categories
Wheels Up has revolutionized private aviation with its membership model that combines the benefits of ownership with the flexibility of charter services. Their Los Angeles operations provide exceptional service throughout Southern California, with particular strength in their light and midsize jet offerings.
What makes Wheels Up stand out among private jet charter companies is their innovative approach to accessibility. Their membership structure offers guaranteed availability with as little as 24 hours’ notice, and their acquisition of Mountain Aviation has significantly expanded their super-midsize and large-cabin capabilities.
Key Services:
- Membership programs with various tiers
- On-demand charter services
- Shared flights opportunities
- Whole aircraft management
- Empty leg flight deals
For LA-based travelers needing frequent regional travel throughout the West Coast, Wheels Up offers outstanding value and reliability.
2. NetJets
Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio (with significant Los Angeles presence)
Founded: 1964
Fleet Size: 700+ aircraft globally
As the pioneer of fractional jet ownership and the largest private jet operator in the world, NetJets brings unmatched resources and experience to the Los Angeles private aviation market. Their massive fleet ensures extraordinary availability even during peak travel periods.
NetJets’ appeal lies in their consistency and global reach. For Los Angeles-based clients who frequently travel internationally, their worldwide operations provide seamless service whether you’re heading to New York or Tokyo. Their fractional ownership model remains the gold standard in the industry, allowing clients to own shares of specific aircraft types while the company handles all operational aspects.
Key Services:
- Fractional jet ownership
- Jet Card program
- Private jet leasing options
- Global flight operations
- Comprehensive owner services
For executives and high-net-worth individuals seeking the ultimate in reliability without full ownership responsibilities, NetJets continues to set the standard among Los Angeles private jet companies.
3. Jet Edge International
Headquarters: Los Angeles, CA
Founded: 2007
Fleet Size: 85+ aircraft (primarily large-cabin and super-midsize jets)
As a true Los Angeles native among private jet companies, Jet Edge International has built its reputation on super-midsize and large-cabin expertise. Their fleet consists primarily of Gulfstream and Bombardier aircraft, making them particularly suited for transcontinental and international travel from Los Angeles.
Jet Edge has carved out a niche in the premium segment of private aviation. Their Reserve membership program offers fixed rates and guaranteed availability while maintaining the flexibility charter clients demand. Being headquartered in Los Angeles gives them intimate knowledge of the local market and unique needs of the entertainment industry.
Key Services:
- Aircraft management solutions
- On-demand charter services
- Reserve membership program
- Large-cabin aircraft specialization
- Entertainment industry expertise
For Los Angeles clients requiring larger aircraft and premium service, particularly those in the entertainment industry, Jet Edge offers tailored solutions that few competitors can match.
4. Clay Lacy Aviation
Headquarters: Van Nuys, CA
Founded: 1968
Fleet Size: 100+ managed aircraft
Clay Lacy Aviation stands as one of the most historic and respected private jet companies in Los Angeles. Founded by legendary aviator Clay Lacy, the company has evolved into a comprehensive aviation services provider while maintaining its roots at Van Nuys Airport.
What distinguishes Clay Lacy is their complete ecosystem of private aviation services. Beyond charter services, they offer maintenance, FBO services, and one of the most respected aircraft management programs in the industry. Their longevity and deep connections within the Los Angeles aviation community provide clients with unparalleled local expertise.
Key Services:
- Aircraft charter services
- Complete aircraft management
- Aircraft maintenance and avionics
- FBO services at Van Nuys
- Aircraft sales and acquisitions
For those seeking a private jet company in Los Angeles with deep local roots and comprehensive services, Clay Lacy Aviation offers over five decades of trusted service.
5. Surf Air
Headquarters: Santa Monica, CA
Founded: 2013
Fleet Size: 20+ aircraft (primarily Pilatus PC-12s)
Taking a different approach to private aviation, Surf Air pioneered the “all-you-can-fly” membership model for regional travel. While they focus on smaller aircraft than other providers on this list, their innovative model has made private flying accessible to a broader clientele in the Los Angeles area.
Surf Air operates primarily from smaller airports like Hawthorne and Santa Monica, avoiding the congestion of LAX and Van Nuys. Their fixed monthly membership fee allows unlimited travel on their scheduled routes, primarily serving California and nearby Western destinations.
Key Services:
- All-you-can-fly membership plans
- Scheduled service between key California cities
- Semi-private shuttle services
- Regional focus with prime destinations
- Alternative airport utilization
For frequent travelers within California who value predictable costs and efficiency, Surf Air presents a compelling alternative to traditional charter private jet companies.
6. XO
Headquarters: Fort Lauderdale, FL (with major Los Angeles operations)
Founded: 2019 (merger of XOJET and JetSmarter)
Fleet Size: 115+ aircraft plus extended network
XO has disrupted the private aviation industry by leveraging technology to make private jet travel more accessible and efficient. Their mobile app allows Los Angeles clients to book flights instantly, view empty legs, and even purchase individual seats on shared charter flights.
What makes XO stand out among private jet charter companies in Los Angeles is their flexible approach. Clients can choose between whole aircraft charters, shared flights, or their membership program. Their Challenger 300 and Citation X fleets are particularly well-suited for the popular LA to Las Vegas and LA to San Francisco routes.
Key Services:
- On-demand charter booking platform
- Shared flight opportunities
- XO membership options
- Empty leg flight deals
- Mobile app with instant booking capability
For tech-savvy Los Angeles travelers seeking flexibility and modern booking options, XO offers innovative alternatives to traditional private flying.
7. FlyExclusive
Headquarters: Kinston, NC (with significant West Coast operations)
Founded: 2015
Fleet Size: 85+ aircraft
Relatively newer to the Los Angeles market but growing rapidly, FlyExclusive has established itself through its Jet Club membership program and its focused fleet strategy. Operating primarily Citation aircraft across light, midsize, and super-midsize categories, they provide consistent service and competitive pricing.
FlyExclusive has expanded its Los Angeles presence significantly in recent years, positioning aircraft strategically to serve the California market. Their transparent pricing model and lack of peak day surcharges have attracted many Los Angeles-based clients looking for predictable costs without compromising quality.
Key Services:
- Jet Club membership program
- On-demand charter services
- Citation fleet specialization
- Aircraft management
- Guaranteed availability programs
For Los Angeles travelers seeking value without sacrificing quality, FlyExclusive offers a compelling combination of consistency and competitive rates.
How to Choose the Right Private Jet Company for Your Needs
Selecting among the best private jet companies in Los Angeles requires considering several factors based on your specific needs:
Travel Patterns and Frequency
If you primarily fly regionally around California and the Western U.S., companies with strong light jet fleets like Surf Air or certain membership programs may be ideal. For frequent transcontinental or international travel, operators with larger aircraft like NetJets or Jet Edge might better suit your needs.
Budget Considerations
Private aviation offers various price points, from seat-sharing services to full ownership. Be honest about your budget and explore options accordingly:
- On-demand charter: Best for flying less than 25 hours annually
- Jet cards: Optimal for 25-50 hours of annual flying
- Membership programs: Great for regular but not constant travelers
- Fractional ownership: Ideal for flying 50+ hours annually
- Full ownership: Most cost-effective at 200+ hours annually
Specialized Requirements
Consider any special needs you might have:
- Are you frequently traveling with pets?
- Do you require specific catering or ground transportation?
- Is maximum privacy a concern (particularly for celebrity clients)?
- Do you need aircraft with specific ranges or cabin configurations?
The best private jet charter company for you will be the one that best aligns with these specific requirements.
The Future of Private Aviation in Los Angeles
The private aviation landscape in Los Angeles continues to evolve rapidly. Several trends are worth noting for anyone considering private jet services:
Sustainability initiatives are becoming increasingly important, with many companies offering carbon offset programs and some beginning to explore sustainable aviation fuel options.
Technology integration continues to advance, with better booking platforms, real-time availability, and enhanced connectivity aboard aircraft.
Membership innovation remains a competitive battleground, with companies developing ever more flexible programs to attract and retain clients.
As one of the world’s premier private aviation markets, Los Angeles often leads these trends, with private jet companies in Los Angeles frequently launching innovations that later spread industry-wide.
Conclusion: Making the Skies Your Own
Navigating the world of private aviation in Los Angeles offers tremendous advantages for those who value time, convenience, and privacy. The best private jet companies featured in this guide represent different approaches to private flying, from traditional charter services to innovative membership models.
The right choice ultimately depends on your specific travel patterns, budget, and preferences. Many clients find that different providers serve different needs—perhaps one company for transcontinental business travel and another for weekend leisure trips.
Whatever your requirements, Los Angeles offers access to the world’s finest private aviation services, with options to suit virtually any need or budget. By understanding the strengths and specialties of each provider, you can make informed decisions that transform your travel experience from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ready to explore private aviation options in Los Angeles? Contact any of these top companies directly to discuss your needs or work with a charter broker who can help you compare options across multiple providers.
