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These days, more and more travelers are choosing private flight services as a luxurious and efficient travel option. While taking a privately chartered jet may seem out of reach for many, the growing demand has led to more affordable options. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Private Flight Services – from what to expect from the services provided to estimated costs and key benefits.
How Charter Services Work
Instead of owning their own aircraft, most executive travelers rely on on-demand charter companies to arrange flights. When booking, you work with a broker or charter operator to specify your travel needs like departure city, destination, dates & times, and number of passengers. They then source the best private aircraft to suit your itinerary from their third-party aviation partners. On the day of your flight, a pilot and cabin crew will handle operating the aircraft while you relax. Destinations both domestic and international can typically be reached within a few hours. Charters provide an alternative to flying commercially with the perk of avoiding crowded terminals and security lines.
Aircraft Options
A range of private jet types is available for charter, each suited to different travel needs: Light jets (up to 8 passengers) are efficient for shorter routes. Midsize jets (up to 12 passengers) balance passenger comfort with range. Super-midsize jets (up to 16 passengers) are ideal for transcontinental flights. Heavy jets like the Gulfstream can connect nonstop coast-to-coast with up to 19 seats. Charter services ensure they have an appropriately sized aircraft based on the number of travelers, baggage amounts, and length of journey.
Getting estimated costs
Costs for chartering a private aircraft vary greatly depending on departure/destination airports, aircraft types, dates, trip durations, and number of travelers. However, here are some average flight cost estimates: Light jet flights start around $3,000/hour with a typical minimum 4-hour charge per day. That’s around $12,000 roundtrip for 2 passengers. Midsize jets range between $4,000-6,000/hour, so $16,000-24,000 for a roundtrip. Super-midsize and large-cabin jets start at $6,000-10,000/hour or higher. Besides hourly rates, charter services may add separate fees for overnight aircraft costs, catering, WiFi, international travel permits, and more.
Key advantages of private flights
Here are some top benefits private aviation charters offer over commercial flights: Avoid airport chaos and reach more direct flight paths. Fly on your schedule without regard to set timetables. Relax in spacious cabins with attentive cabin crews. Access over 5,000 airports, including many business or tourist destinations regularly. Less time is wasted on security and boarding large aircraft. Remain productive during scenic flights with onboard WiFi and amenities. Gain peace of mind traveling during events like extreme weather or high travel seasons.
Booking your private charter
Most charter operators offer 24/7 booking services online or by phone. Their websites also provide aircraft photos, amenities descriptions, and interactive flight cost estimates. Be sure to have specifics on Travel dates and flight times desired. Departure and destination airport details. Number of passengers (including children/infants). Preferred aircraft types based on your party size and needs. Any special requests for amenities like catering or equipment cargo space. Billing/payment information like address, phone number, and credit card on file. A confirmation email should detail the flight itinerary, aircraft type allocated, all itemized costs, and operator contact information.
