If you’re taking the plunge and considering chartering a private jet, it’s normal to feel apprehensive and have questions. You might be wondering about the cost, the type of aircraft, and how to start looking for a broker.
Newcomers to flying privately sometimes make these common mistakes when booking a private jet, but you can avoid them. Learn how to take the leap into the exclusive world of private jet charters.
Assuming the Cost Is Beyond Your Reach
Of course, private jets are expensive, but that doesn’t mean they’re out of reach. Choosing an empty legs flight can lower the cost of a private charter to only slightly above the cost of a first-class or business-class seat. But what is an empty leg charter?
Essentially, they’re the return flight from a one-way flight another customer booked. Since the aircraft would otherwise be flying empty, the aircraft owners or operators book empty-leg flights at a lower price.
Not Booking Early Enough
Private charter flights are at the mercy of available aircraft, and the further in advance you plan your trip, the more options of aircraft you’ll have available to you. Having more options means you’ll have more opportunities to save money. There isn’t much of a price difference between weekday and weekend flights, but Friday through Sunday bookings tend to sell out faster.
Researching Your Charter
Flying privately is a niche industry, but you have options when searching for a charter flight. Browse a few different sites to see which private jet charter feels the most reputable to you based on price, aircraft choice, and customer service.
Forgetting Your ID
Even though you’re skipping the airport terminal security checkpoints, you’ll still need an ID. Like commercial travel, you’ll need only a state ID or driver’s license for domestic travel and a current passport for flying internationally.
Now that you know the most common mistakes when booking a private jet, when will you be taking to the sky?