In 2026, the Cirrus Vision Jet G2+ remains the undisputed cheapest private jet to operate, with an hourly cost of approximately $800 to $900 for fuel and basic maintenance. As a single-engine "Very Light Jet" (VLJ), it lacks the high overhead of twin-engine aircraft. For those looking to charter, the cheapest options are often the Cessna Citation Mustang or the Eclipse 550, which typically range from $2,500 to $3,500 per hour depending on the positioning fees. If you are looking for even lower costs, "Turboprop" aircraft like the Pilatus PC-12 are often grouped with private jets but cost significantly less, sometimes dipping toward $1,800 per hour. When booking, always check if the quote includes "landing fees" and "crew overnight costs," as these can quickly double the effective hourly rate on shorter flights.