The use of an executive jet is a privilege ingrained in corporate culture. But is it a cost worth bearing?

As companies push to re-assert themselves and put the economy back on track, consumers and the media are increasingly scrutinizing the way publicly traded corporations spend their money. After the public outcry against bonuses on Wall Street, the perks and privileges of upper leadership are particularly under fire, executive jets among them

The executive jet is an age-old symbol of corporate power. Since the 1960s, when small private jet aircraft were possible for the first time, the private jet has been a symbol of the freedom and luxury that comes with success. Allowing executives to jet set from city to city, they take down barriers in networking and publicity and enable a worldwide presence. And as a status symbol, they have become a coveted sign of leadership.

Now it is that very role as a symbol that gives private jets such value, according to corporate strategy experts. When a company invests in a private jet service, it does more than just obtain the easy, rapid transport of an aircraft on demand. It sends a message that the company has come of age, has achieved a level of success that puts them at the table with Fortune 100 players.

This kind of message has a value that far exceeds the luxury of the jet itself. In an era of cautious investors and sluggish stock markets, it may be just the message needed to be taken seriously.