Last Updated by Rick: 16 April 2026
XO is a private aviation platform owned by Vista Global, one of the largest private aviation groups in the world. It operates as both a broker and a managed fleet provider, offering on-demand charter, shared flights, and empty leg deals through an app-based booking interface.
XO is one of the more visible platforms in US private aviation, combining technology with a large operator network and the backing of a major industry group.
This article is part of our series on private jet charter companies.
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Quick verdict
XO is the strongest app-based platform for US domestic travel, with unique shared flight options starting from a few hundred dollars per seat.
Backed by Vista Global (VistaJet). 2,100+ aircraft. Recovery guarantee on managed fleet. The trade-off: displayed pricing is not always the final invoice, and aircraft specs on shared flights may vary.
Contents
What is XO?
XO was formed from the merger of XOJET and JetSmarter, rebranded as XO in 2020. It is now part of Vista Global, which also operates VistaJet — the global ultra-long-range private jet program.
XO offers access to over 2,100 aircraft globally through a combination of its managed fleet and a network of third-party FAA Part 135 operators. The platform is app-based, and the booking experience is designed to be faster and more transparent than traditional broker workflows.XO at a glance
How does booking with XO work?
You download the XO app, enter your route and passenger count, and receive quoted options. The platform shows aircraft type, pricing, and operator information. You confirm and pay through the app. The process is faster than traditional broker quote requests, though final pricing for some routes still requires operator confirmation.
XO is notable for its shared flight option. Instead of chartering a whole aircraft, you buy a seat on a scheduled private departure. Shared flights start at a few hundred dollars per seat on some short US routes. This is the most accessible price point on the platform.
For group travel or full aircraft charters, XO pricing is in line with the broader market. One-way costs start in the high four to five figures depending on aircraft and route.
Good to Know
Shared flights from a few hundred dollars per seat make XO the most accessible entry point into private aviation for solo travelers.
Pricing and transparency
XO uses dynamic pricing. Published prices on the app are indicative until confirmed by the operator for on-demand charter. For shared flights and shuttle services, the pricing is more fixed.
XO Membership is available for frequent travelers who want discounted access and priority booking. Membership pricing is not publicly listed and requires contacting XO directly. For a comparison of membership models across the industry, see private jet membership programs compared.
As part of Vista Global, XO benefits from scale — access to the Vista fleet for long-range routes and a large managed aircraft pool for US domestic travel.
How does XO compare to Villiers Jets and Jettly?
| XO | Villiers Jets | Jettly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Managed fleet + broker | Boutique broker | Tech platform, wholesale |
| Shared flights | Yes (per-seat) | No | No |
| Strongest region | US domestic | Europe and UK | North America |
| Booking style | App-first | Personal broker | Platform + membership |
| Recovery guarantee | Yes (managed fleet) | Broker-arranged | Broker-arranged |
| Owner | Vista Global | Independent | Independent |
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For full assessments, see the Villiers Jets review and Jettly review. For all platforms compared, see best private jet charter companies.
What do travelers say about XO?
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Positive experiences
Travelers who use XO for shared flights and short US routes describe the app experience as smooth and the pricing as competitive for the category. Business travelers note that XO’s tech infrastructure makes managing repeat bookings simpler than traditional broker workflows. The recovery aircraft guarantee — whereby XO is obligated to source an alternative if the scheduled aircraft has a mechanical issue — is cited as a practical advantage over on-demand charter.
Common concerns
The most consistent concern is that the aircraft category is not always guaranteed on some shared or shuttle services. Some users report that “light jet” availability does not always mean a stand-up cabin. Confirming cabin specifications before booking is advisable. A second noted issue is that the pricing displayed in the app before confirmation is not always the final invoice price, particularly once positioning fees and taxes are added.
Good to Know
Always confirm the final all-in price before booking. The app price is indicative until the operator confirms, and positioning fees can add to the total.
Who is XO best suited for?
Is XO right for you?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is XO private jet charter?
XO is a private aviation platform and managed fleet operator owned by Vista Global. It offers on-demand charter, shared private flights, and empty legs through an app. It has access to over 2,100 aircraft globally.
Who owns XO?
XO is owned by Vista Global, one of the largest private aviation groups in the world. Vista Global also owns VistaJet.
How does XO’s shared flight work?
XO lists scheduled shared flights where you buy a seat rather than the whole aircraft. Prices start from a few hundred dollars per seat on some short US routes. The cabin is shared with other passengers, making it less private than a full charter.
Is XO app-based only?
The primary booking interface is the XO app. Phone and email support are also available. The app is available for iOS and Android.
How does XO compare to Villiers Jets?
Both offer private charter access. XO is a larger platform with a managed fleet, an app-first interface, and shared flight options. Villiers is a boutique UK-based broker with personal service and a strong empty leg focus. XO is better suited to US travelers; Villiers has stronger UK and European coverage.
Does XO guarantee the aircraft type?
For full charter bookings, aircraft specifications are confirmed at booking. For shared and shuttle services, the aircraft type may be guaranteed by category (e.g., light jet) but not a specific model. Confirm cabin specifications before booking if this matters for your trip.
What is XO Membership?
XO Membership provides access to discounted charter rates and priority booking. Membership pricing is not publicly listed. Contact XO directly for current rates and terms.
Is XO available in Europe?
Yes, though XO’s strongest coverage is in North America. For European and transatlantic routes, VistaJet — part of the same Vista Global group — is the primary offering.