The private aviation sector is experiencing notable growth even as the commercial aviation industry faces challenges. This shift has its roots during the pandemic when many travelers opted for private flights due to reduced commercial options. GlobeAir reported that from the pandemic’s onset until March 2020, 2,678 of its customers were first-time private jet flyers. With developments like empty-leg flights, flying private has become more affordable and accessible, potentially more cost-effective than traveling first-class commercially.
A guide outlines the rationale for choosing private aviation, the financial considerations, booking processes, flight day expectations, and necessary etiquette for passengers. Private jets offer unparalleled flexibility and personalized service, attractive to both business and leisure travelers. They can access numerous airports—5,000 in the U.S. alone—compared to commercial flights.
There are multiple models in private aviation, such as leasing, membership plans, pre-paid jet cards, and fractional ownership, making private flying more inclusive. Leasing involves a fee to access a jet, allowing for approximately 50 flight hours with additional hours available for purchase. Membership plans offer access to various aircraft from charter companies, suitable for infrequent flyers or those seeking value. Pre-paid jet cards operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, and fractional ownership entails partial aircraft ownership among multiple parties.
Flying private generally incurs higher costs compared to commercial flights, though this discrepancy narrows for light jets. Costs range from about $2,000 per hour for small jets to $13,000 for larger jets like the Bombardier Global 7500. Factors such as group size and need for productivity in-flight can influence the economic viability of private flying versus commercial.
Planning a charter flight requires selecting a charter company or broker, with an emphasis on ensuring legal operation and proper qualifications like memberships in aviation associations. Brokers must have ‘non-owned aircraft liability insurance’ for protection.
The day of the flight involves streamlined check-in at a less crowded fixed-base operator, a brief wait in a lounge, and personal service onboard. Activities include productive work, entertainment, or rest without risking flight safety. Ensuring essential etiquette, like proper documentation and notifying the operator of any changes, is important, as is maintaining a professional atmosphere during the flight.
Flying private allows passengers to engage in important business, with cabins conducive to maintaining privacy and low conversation volumes. It provides an opportunity to conduct work that is less feasible in the commercial flight environment.
###
