For companies with many business travelers, a business jet may be something to consider. The costs for frequent commercial travel can add up quickly, making owning or chartering a jet worth the expense. Having a business jet can give any company convenience and added productivity, as well as the benefit of possible tax deductions for certain expenses of business flights.

What Are the Costs of Owning a Business Aircraft?

There are several important things to consider regarding the corporate travel costs of owning a business aircraft, and there’s more to it than just the original purchase price — although that’s an important consideration too. Here are the main costs involved in owning aircraft for your business:

• Purchase price: The initial cost of buying a private aircraft can vary wildly and will depend on the size and type of aircraft you choose, and whether you buy new or used.
• Maintenance: Ensuring your aircraft is properly maintained at all times is absolutely crucial for safety. It’s important to budget for regular maintenance and any needed repairs.
• Operating costs: Operating costs may include the salaries, training, and travel costs of a flight crew, airport scheduling fees, and subscriptions for navigation data, among other additional features.
• Hangar fees: When you’re not in the air, you’ll need a safe place to store your aircraft. A simple parking space with a tie-down is an option, but a hangar will better protect your investment from the elements. The hangar storage fees will vary depending on the location and size of the airport. Larger, international airports will have more expensive storage than smaller, regional airports.
• Insurance: Insurance costs will also vary depending on the size, age, and type of aircraft, as well as average flight hours. But this can be a significant annual expense to budget for.
• Miscellaneous: There’s an almost endless variety of upgrades and add-ons for any corporate aircraft, including high-tech options, aesthetic and comfort-based upgrades like decor, furniture, communications, and connectivity. This category can also include any additional services, comfort items, as well as food and beverage items for the flights.

What Are the Costs of Chartering a Jet for Business Travel?

Another option for corporate travel is chartering a jet. With charter flights, you don’t own the aircraft and don’t need to worry about individual costs for all of the extras that come along with owning a jet. Most charter flights charge a per-hour fee for flight airtime. Generally, you aren’t charged for on-the-ground time for your trip.

The hourly rates for chartering a private jet can vary according to the size and type of aircraft you choose, the size of the flight crew, the distance flown, and the cost of fuel at the time. The cost will also include some additional fees and taxes. It’s important to remember that the charter flight costs are all-inclusive and already factor in all of the separate costs that you’d be responsible for if you owned your own private aircraft.

Benefits of Private Flights for Business Travel

Private jet travel for business offers many benefits, including:

• Convenience: What could be more convenient than avoiding all the hassles of standing in line at an airport and waiting in the terminal? With a private jet, you can be on board and on your way within minutes. Travel where you need to go without worrying about over-booked flights or commercial flight schedules.
• Productivity: On your own private aircraft, it’s easier to maintain productivity, and you can even work from the jet and hold meetings with colleagues in the air. There’s far less downtime for you and your team, as you can keep working from the comfort of your private plane.
• Privacy: Private jets are quiet and distraction-free. Plus, your team can discuss proprietary company information without worry that you’re being overheard by other passengers.
• Saved time: Your time is valuable and you won’t have to waste it arriving early for flights, waiting at baggage claim, or losing precious work time while you’re in the air.

How to Analyze Your Company’s Travel Expenses

It’s a good idea to conduct a business travel assessment to understand your company’s business travel expenses as it can help you determine the best modes of travel for future use. You’ll want to note what modes of travel your company uses, who uses corporate travel and how much, when travel is most frequent, as well as the overall costs, including any extras like overnight hotel stays.

For your business expense management, be sure to analyze all of the data to compare the expenses and the benefits of certain types of travel for your company. Take into consideration how your needs may change in the upcoming years, either with larger teams or more or less travel.

Is Business Travel By Private Jet Tax Deductible?

When considering business travel costs, you’ll want to think about taxes. And while you may see private jet travel as a business expense, in terms of tax deductions, it’s not always that simple. Determining if your business aircraft costs are tax-deductible can depend on a number of factors.

To count as a tax-deductible business expense, travel must be normal and necessary to your business in the eyes of the IRS. And because private aircraft travel is seen as a luxury, sometimes it can be difficult to justify the expense for your taxes.

For example, if you’re using your jet for business purposes, only transporting employees and clients, and traveling to locations not easily served by other modes of transportation — including commercial travel — you’ll have better luck claiming tax deductions. However, allowing family members and guests to fly with you and traveling to locations easily reached by commercial airlines or by car can make it more difficult for you to claim those tax deductions.

Should You Own or Charter a Jet for Business Travel?

Choosing between owning and chartering a jet can come down to what’s best for you and your company. There are benefits and drawbacks to each situation, so it’s best to understand your needs when making this decision. When you own your own jet, you have the convenience of constant availability and flexibility in your travel plans, but you are solely responsible for all associated costs.

If you go with a charter company, you may have a wider variety of aircraft to choose from for different purposes, and all of the details will be taken care of for you. Just be sure to work with a distinguished charter company that has excellent safety ratings.

Contact Latitude 33 About Private Jet Sales and Charter Flights

Ready to take the next step? Whether you want to buy, sell or charter a private business jet, Latitude 33 can help. Contact our experienced team today and we can assist you in finding the right business jet solutions for your company. We can be your trusted partner throughout any aircraft transaction, offering acquisition and brokerage services as well. Get in touch today to get started.

Are you considering a career as a private jet pilot? There are several steps you will need to take to earn the proper certifications to fly a private jet, but it can be an extremely fulfilling career.

Learn more about the requirements to become a private jet pilot and the possible careers you might be able to pursue.

How Do You Become a Jet Pilot?

If you don’t currently hold any flight certificates, the first step you will need to take to become a jet pilot is to obtain your private pilot certificate. After you get your private pilot certificate, there are additional ratings and certificates to obtain as well. You will need them if you plan to pursue a career in aviation. Here’s a quick overview.

1. Private Pilot Certificate

One of the first steps in private jet pilot training is to get your private pilot certificate. You will need to ensure you meet the basic requirements, including being proficient in English. There is no specific age limit for when you can start learning about flying, but you must be at least 16 years old to fly solo and 17 years old to earn a pilot certificate. You also need a minimum of 40 hours of flight time, and those hours include a combination of solo time, where you are the sole occupant of the aircraft, and dual time, where you fly with a certified flight instructor.

In the 40 hours, you must have at least:

• 10 hours of solo time: During the solo time, you will practice takeoffs and landings, as well as the maneuvers you learn in your training. You will also need to complete at least five hours of solo cross-country time. A cross-country flight is defined as a straight-line distance of at least 50 nautical miles between the takeoff point and the point of landing. Additionally, you will need to perform takeoffs and landings at an airport with an operating control tower.
• 20 hours of dual time: This 20 hours of training is broken up into components such as airport operations, cross-country flight training, nighttime training, and simulated instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). You will also learn operations such as emergency procedures, a variety of training maneuvers, and preflight and postflight procedures.

Keep in mind that while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) only requires a minimum of 40 hours, many people take longer than that to become proficient. You will also need to receive a medical exam from an FAA medical examiner.

In addition to your flight training, there is also plenty of ground knowledge you will need to be very familiar with as well — from weather and aircraft systems to regulations, navigation, and more. To demonstrate your ground knowledge, you will need to take an FAA knowledge exam — a computer-based exam that can be taken at a certified testing center.

Once you have received a passing score on the knowledge exam and have completed your flight training, you will be scheduled for your practical test, or checkride. The checkride consists of both an oral portion you will complete on the ground and a flight portion where you will demonstrate your abilities in the aircraft.

2. Instrument Rating

Once you get your private pilot certificate, you are qualified to fly under visual flight rules (VFR). Under VFR, you can navigate using visual references outside the aircraft, such as landmarks on the ground and the horizon. There are also distances from clouds you must maintain and visibility requirements as well. Essentially, if you are flying VFR, heavy precipitation, low visibility, clouds, and other inclement weather should be avoided.

However, an instrument rating enables you to fly by instrument flight rules (IFR). When you fly IFR, you can fly even when cloud heights and visibility are lower than what’s required for VFR operations. Additionally, when you are flying a jet, most operations, except for takeoffs and landings, will be conducted above 18,000 mean sea level (MSL), where an instrument rating is required.

To obtain an instrument rating, you will need to complete additional flight training for instrument operations and become familiar with what it’s like to fly in the clouds and without outside visual references. There is also another computer-based knowledge exam and checkride for the instrument rating.

3. Multi-Engine Rating

A private pilot certificate qualifies you to operate single-engine aircraft. While this works for most people, if you are looking to make aviation your career, you will likely want to consider getting a multi-engine rating. With this rating, you will be able to fly aircraft with more than one engine. Since there are very few single-engine jets, a multi-engine rating is a necessary addition to your private pilot certificate if your goal is to fly a jet.

There is no computer-based knowledge test for the multi-engine rating, but you will still be required to pass the oral and flight portion of a checkride to get a multi-engine rating.

4. Type Rating

To fly a jet, you will need to receive a type rating, which applies to a specific jet. That means if you want to fly a jet from a different manufacturer, and in some cases even just a different model, you will need to obtain another type rating.

Different training companies and aircraft will all have their own requirements for pilot knowledge and experience for a type rating. Regardless of your level of pilot certificate, a type rating checkride will be judged by airline transport pilot (ATP) standards, meaning you must be within plus-10 and minus zero of your final approach speed, plus or minus 100 feet of the assigned altitude, and plus or minus 10 knots of the assigned airspeed.

What Do Pilots Need to Fly for Hire?

Once you have received the above certificates and ratings, you are legally qualified to fly a jet. However, you are not permitted to fly for hire. If you plan to operate an aircraft for hire, or work for a company that does, you will need a commercial pilot certificate. This certificate is essentially an extension of the private pilot certificate, going deeper into operations and increasing the precision at which you execute maneuvers. You will need to pass a knowledge exam and a checkride to receive your commercial certificate.

The commercial certificate also gives you the option to do other aviation jobs for hire, such as aerial surveying, aerial firefighting, pipeline and powerline patrol, and air ambulance — however, there may be additional endorsements and training you must receive before you are completely qualified to perform these jobs.

Note that the commercial certificate does not qualify you to fly for an airline. Each airline has its own requirements for hire, but at the very least, you will need to fulfill hours requirements and receive an airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate.

Do Jet Pilots Need Special Endorsements?

There are numerous special endorsements for aircraft pilots. In addition to the certificates and ratings themselves, you can also earn specific endorsements, improving your marketability and increasing your skillset. You don’t have to complete a knowledge test or a checkride to get an endorsement. Instead, you must receive training from a certified instructor, and they will give you an endorsement in your logbook once they are confident you are proficient in the aircraft. If you are looking to operate private jets, you may want to consider the following endorsements:

• High-performance endorsement: A high-performance aircraft is an aircraft with an engine that is over 200 horsepower. For a high-performance endorsement, you will need simulator or flight training in a high-performance airplane and display proficiency in the operation of this aircraft.
• High-altitude endorsement: High-altitude endorsement is required if you want to fly an aircraft with a maximum operating altitude or service ceiling above 25,000 feet MSL. To receive this endorsement, you will need to undergo ground training from an authorized trainer specializing in topics such as high-altitude aerodynamics, hypoxia symptoms, and supplemental oxygen use. You will need to log flight time in a pressurized aircraft or flight simulator that mimics operating in high altitude conditions, too.
• Complex endorsement: Complex endorsements are another common endorsement, which requires training on operating and handling complex aircraft. A complex aircraft is defined as an aircraft that features adjustable flaps, a controllable pitch propeller, and retractable landing gear. The Code of Federal Regulations does not have a specific number of flight hours for complex endorsement. Still, it does require you to log simulator or flight training and ground training that covers the basic topics of operating a complex aircraft. The certified instructor will sign your logbook with the endorsement when they determine you are proficient in the aircraft.

What Careers Are Possible After You Get Your Commercial Pilot Certificate?

After receiving a commercial pilot certificate, there are many potential career paths you can follow. While many people think the only career path is becoming an airline pilot, there are many ways to put your skills as a pilot to use — and becoming a private jet pilot is one of them.

While a jet pilot license is a commonly used term, there is not a specific jet pilot license to achieve. Instead, you receive the certificates, ratings and endorsements mentioned above. The certificates and ratings you hold, as well as your total flight time, will help your marketability in the aviation field.

Just a few of the possible career paths for a commercial pilot include:

• Charter pilot: Working as a charter operation or air taxi may be ideal for you. If you own your own plane, you might be able to charter flights for tourists on sightseeing or island exploring trips. You might also be able to work for a company, like Latitude 33 Aviation, that provides charter services for passengers who are traveling for purposes such as business or pleasure.
• Corporate pilot: Some companies, or individuals, own their own aircraft that they use for themselves. Working as a corporate pilot involves flying employees, company owners or the aircraft’s owner around the country, and perhaps internationally, for various needs. While it can seem similar to charter work, a corporate aircraft is not available to people outside of the company or the individual who owns the aircraft.
• Freight pilot: A cargo pilot is responsible for transporting various cargo around the world. Cargo pilots often pick up and deliver packages to the next location for businesses and personal orders. A benefit of becoming a cargo pilot is that it is a service that is high in demand.
• Air ambulance: Air ambulance pilots help transfer ill or injured people to hospitals or other facilities for proper care. You may also transport medical crews to a specific location.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Commercial Pilot Certificate?

The average cost of getting your private pilot license and your commercial pilot license will vary depending on where you receive your training. For example, you can get your certifications and ratings from an FAA-certified flight school. There are also accelerated programs and universities that take you all the way from the private pilot certificate through commercial multi-engine certification.

On average, the cost of earning a private pilot certificate is approximately $9,500. However, earning a commercial pilot certificate is typically more expensive. The flight training and academic education from a four-year aviation degree to receive a commercial pilot certificate with additional ratings to be hired as a professional pilot may cost over $100,000. After receiving a commercial pilot license, those looking to earn an ATP certificate will need to gain experience and log flight time while working to get additional ratings and endorsements as required.

The salary of a commercial pilot varies based on the job they are doing, as well as their training and expertise. On average, a private jet pilot’s salary is approximately $130,916 per year.

Is There a Shortage of Business Aviation Pilots?

The business aviation sector is attempting to attract and retain more talent that typically may be initially drawn to working as an airline pilot. Many businesses and companies rely on business aviation for efficient, flexible, secure, and cost-effective access to destinations domestically and globally. In many cases, business aviation is an effective solution that opens the door for businesses to conduct commerce nationally and internationally.

The demand for business aviation pilots increases as the demand for the position outpaces the number of available and trained pilots. In addition to business aviation pilots, it is also expected that there will be an increased need for technicians and commercial personnel. Some of the benefits of becoming a business aviation pilot include:

• Flying different types of aircraft.
• Flexible schedule.
• Unique jobs.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• Opportunity for growth.

What Are the Requirements of a Charter Jet Pilot?

Charter companies must be certified and abide by the regulations set forth in 14 CFR Part 135.

Part 135 certification allows a charter company to conduct on-demand operations, including limited scheduled operations and scheduled commuter operations. Both commuter and on-demand operations have specific limits associated with them, including maximum payloads and the number of passenger seats.

As far as certifications and requirements for charter jet pilots, they can vary from company to company. For example, a company may require its pilots to obtain an ATP certificate, even though they aren’t flying for an airline. However, no matter where a charter pilot works, they will need at least a commercial pilot certificate and the type rating for the aircraft they will be flying.

One of the main duties of a charter jet pilot is to charter passengersfrom one destination to another. Individuals, private organizations, and even the government may hire charter flight pilots. A charter pilot is hired or transports a client to one or several destinations. Some charter pilots work on a regular schedule of repeat charter flights.

In most cases, charter flight pilots also tend to work in closer contact with their passengers and may even drive a passenger to a destination after the flight. The majority of charter pilots do not carry any cargo other than passengers’ luggage. Along with excellent flying skills, a charter pilot should have a high level of safety awareness and operate the aircraft in accordance with FAA requirements and company safety protocols. Strong customer relation skills and overall flexibility are also important traits of a charter pilot.

Explore Private Jet Pilot Careers at Latitude 33 Aviation

Latitude 33 is a premier charter company for those looking to pursue a commercial pilot career. We offer exciting career opportunities based out of Los Angeles and San Diego. We also are proud to offer private jet charter services, aircraft management services, jet acquisition, and brokerage services. We are an industry-recognized expert in providing professional, high-quality management programs while also maintaining safety and security.

To learn more about commercial pilot careers or our services, contact us online today or call 800-840-0310.

Private aircraft are the peak of luxury and comfort for your travel needs. Whether you’re a business executive looking to impress your clients or you want to take to the skies with your family and friends in style, a private jet charter will give you the experience you desire.

You have several options to consider when flying private. Private jet capacity, size, speed, and range are some of the factors that will affect your decision of which aircraft is right for you. Before choosing your private jet, be sure to analyze your precise needs and educate yourself on the incredible charter jets that are available.

Types of Private Jets

Several private jet models exist for you to choose from for your next trip. Determining the charter jet size that suits your needs best is the first step in making sure you choose the right aircraft for your travels.

1. Turboprop

A turboprop is not categorized as a jet, but its propeller is driven by a turbine engine — as opposed to a piston engine that a regular propeller aircraft uses. Turboprops like the Pilatus PC-12 NGX and the Beechcraft King Air 360 give you the opportunity to enjoy many of the benefits of private flying at the most cost-effective rates available.

Due to their smaller size, turboprop aircraft are more fuel efficient than light jets. They also have a range of about 1,800 nautical miles (nm), so they are ideal for short-distance flights.

Turboprops do lack extra facilities such as bathrooms, but just one of the many benefits of these aircraft is you can access places that larger aircraft could never reach. These include airports with smaller runways — which are far more common than large, commercial airports and allow you to get even closer to your destination.

Additionally, many turboprop aircraft have seating arrangements that can accommodate up to 11 passengers, or seats can be removed if you need to transport extra cargo instead. Turboprops provide an affordable, versatile option for your short-distance travel needs.

2. Light Jets

Light private jets maintain many of the same characteristics as other smaller aircraft with some added features. Light jets like the Cessna Citation M2 and the supremely popular Embraer Phenom 300 allow you and an average of seven other passengers to fly private in comfort and confidence. With flight ranges reaching beyond 2,100 nm, you can reach your destination quickly and affordably. Traveling in a light jet gives you access to the hundreds of smaller airports across the country as well.

Light jets also give you some of the amenities you expect in private air travel. These include:

• Comfortable, plush leather seats.
• A small refreshment center.
• A limited supply of electronics.
• A private lavatory.

3. Midsize Jets

When it comes to private jet charter flights, booking a midsize jet is a great option if you want to travel longer distances without upgrading to the truly luxurious features available in larger aircraft. Midsize jets like the Bombardier Learjet 60, the Cessna Citation XLS+, and the Hawker 800XP provide comfortable, spacious cabins if you are looking for more headroom. With travel ranges reaching 2,700 nm as seen in the Cessna Citation Latitude, you can fly those extra few hundred miles without exceeding your budget.

You and up to 11 other passengers can fly in comfort and privacy in a midsize jet. Enjoy amenities like a private bathroom, reclining seats, a fully stocked snack and drink bar, fold-down tables, and Wi-Fi access. Midsize jets even have room for a cabin attendant to help make your flight even more comfortable for its duration.

4. Super-Midsize Jets

Super-midsize private jets maintain everything people love about midsize jets while taking them to the next level of what it means to fly private. Here are a few of the upgrades you could experience in a super-midsize jet:

• Larger cabin space: Even taller passengers can stand and walk around in comfort in super-midsize jets like the Bombardier Challenger 300 which boasts a 73-inch-tall cabin.
• Longer flying range: Fly farther in a super-midsize jet like the Cessna Citation Longitude which has a range of up to 3,500 nm.
• Comfortable amenities: Larger lavatories, lie-down sleeping accommodations, and a galley stocked with your favorite snacks and drinks are some of the wonderful amenities that await you on a super-midsize private jet.
• Advanced avionics: Experience a higher level of comfort thanks to the advanced avionics on super-midsize jets, which enable smoother, quieter flights.

5. Heavy Jets

Flying in a heavy charter jet is an elite experience. First-class seats, large amounts of legroom, and pull-out tabletops are standard fare when you get into the heavy jet category. Besides these comforts, you’ll have access to amenities such as a larger bathroom, a cabin attendant operating a full-service galley to provide delicious catering options, conference rooms, and even multiple lie-flat sleeping options for overnight flights. With cabin widths up to 98 inches and heights up to 74 inches, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and relax.

Heavy jets also offer a superior travel capacity, as seen in the Gulfstream G550 with its 6,750 nm range and its ability to accommodate up to 19 passengers. Other great heavy jet options include the Bombardier Challenger 605 and the Bombardier Challenger 650.

How Do You Choose Which Size Charter Jet to Book?

With all the options available to you for private air travel, how do you decide which type of charter jet is the right choice? The best way to find your solution is to consider your travel needs. In some cases, your choice may be easier than ever as some of your requirements will disqualify some private jet models from your shortlist.

Here are the factors you should consider.

Number of Passengers

The number of individuals you wish to travel with plays a large role in determining which size of charter jet is right for you. For instance, if you need to travel with nine other family members or coworkers, a private jet with four seats will be inadequate. Even trying to fit nine people in an aircraft equipped to handle a maximum of eight passengers will not work. Plus, the more room everyone has, the more comfortable your flight will be for all on board.

This is the base rule you should follow when choosing a private jet: The more passengers flying, the bigger the jet you should charter. A group of 10 or more passengers will most likely need a midsize jet or larger. If you’re traveling solo, then flying in a turboprop or a light jet could be ideal. For the largest flying parties, you’ll want to go with a heavy jet for maximum comfort and safety.

The Distance You Need to Travel

Your traveling distance has the potential to reduce your list of aircraft options regardless of the number of passengers you’re bringing with you. If you’re by yourself, and you need to travel to a business meeting in a neighboring state, you can probably travel via turboprop or light jet. If your business meeting is on the opposite coast of the continental United States, however, then you will need at least a super-midsize jet to make the flight without stopping to refuel, even if you’re traveling alone.

Your Destination

You’ll need to keep your destination in mind when choosing your jet as well. Your destination affects your charter jet decision in two ways:

• Different destinations lead to different range needs: Flying from Philadelphia to New York City, for example, is going to be a much shorter trip than flying from Philadelphia to Kansas City.
• Different destinations have different airport requirements: Many times, a business meeting could take you to a remote location, hours from the nearest commercial airport. A turboprop up to a midsize jet can land on a smaller runway with ease. This rules out heavier aircraft from your list of options, and you should plan accordingly. If your destination is near a commercial airport, then you can plan on flying in a heavier aircraft if that’s what you need.

The Charter Company’s Fleet

One consideration that can quickly expand or reduce your list of private jet options is the charter company’s fleet. Every private jet charter company will have a fleet of aircraft ready to take you to your destination. But the aircraft available are subject to change, depending on the season, the demand, and the charter company’s own business model.

In the end, you’ll have to choose a charter company that has the right aircraft for you, or you’ll take your business to a company that does. To keep all your options open and stay flexible, be sure to partner with a charter company with an extensive fleet containing aircraft of all sizes and specifications.

Desired or Necessary Aircraft Features

Each type of private jet has its own set of features. You may be looking for basic necessities like a private lavatory, comfortable legroom, and onboard Wi-Fi. Maybe you want more luxurious accommodations like private bed chambers, the ability to cater full meals, and private office spaces. Perhaps you want to make your passengers comfortable with a larger cabin so people can stand and walk around.

Whatever specifications you’re looking for, you should remember that your desired aircraft features may cross off certain options on your list. Do your research early so you can book your private charter jet with confidence.

What You Intend to Do While Aboard

When choosing a private charter jet, consider the activities you plan on doing while aboard. If you’re a business executive, then you know that time is money. You may plan on staying productive while in the air, especially if you’ll be flying for several hours. In that case, you’ll need features including Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a fold-down table or desk. If you’re traveling in a large group, then more private space could also be crucial.

If you’re taking to the skies to host a party for friends, family, or employees, then a heavy jet might be your best option. That way, you’ll have the space for all your guests to relax, mingle, and celebrate in comfort — and maybe even have a place to sleep when the party concludes.

Your Budget

When it comes to deciding on a way to spend your money, every checklist must include a reminder to consider your budget.

It all comes down to your individual budget and how much money you can spend on an aircraft that suits your needs. It’s your travel experience, and you deserve to enjoy it while keeping your expenses in mind.

Are There Benefits to Flying Private Regardless of Charter Jet Size?

Flying private has incredible benefits that are impossible to experience on a commercial airliner. When you travel in a private aircraft from the right charter company, you get to experience a new level of sophistication in air travel. From enhanced privacy and heightened productivity to lavish accommodations and top-of-the-line entertainment, you’ll feel the benefits of your decision to fly private from the moment you board.

You’ll also enjoy a closer connection to your destination. With a smaller aircraft, you can reach locations a larger aircraft never could. You’ll also be able to skip waiting in long lines at airports and missing flights since your private charter jet will be waiting for your arrival. There are no Transportation Security Administration (TSA) inspections, either. Flying private air charter lets you skip the uncertainty of commercial air travel and helps you regain control of your schedule and your flying experience.

Request a Charter Flight With Latitude 33 Aviation

When you’re ready to experience what flying private has to offer, choose Latitude 33 Aviation as your charter jet company. Since 2006, we’ve been offering best-in-class charter services to provide our valued customers with the service and treatment they expect when they fly private. Our leadership team consists of current, professional pilots, so you can know you’re experiencing the height of private jet flying.

If you’re interested in our services for a charter flight, we encourage you to request a quote today. You can also contact us online for more information. We look forward to serving you!

California is an ideal place to spend your Christmas. You may even prefer visiting the popular state in December — with the summer crowds gone, the beaches are pristine, and the gleaming cities are yours to wander. Wintertime in California offers a range of climates to meet anyone’s preferences, from snowy mountains to warm and sunny desert regions, as well as beautiful beaches dotted with palm trees.

December offers cooler temperatures and occasional scattered rains, but many visitors find the weather tranquil and inviting. If you want to spend your Christmas in California this year, you’ll have to choose the best place to plan your holiday getaway. Learn all about the top 10 places to spend Christmas in the Golden State.

Travel Tip: Book Early for Christmas Trips

Anytime you’re interested in private travel during the holiday season, it’s always a good idea to book early. December and January are popular months for private travel, and booking windows have grown longer in recent years. To secure the destination and aircraft type you prefer, be sure to book a chartered flight at least five to 10 days in advance. For some of the most popular Christmas towns in California, you may want to book even earlier.

Where to Go for Christmas in California

California offers plenty of ideal destinations for a holiday getaway. Whether you’d rather explore a twinkling city, experience some unique excitement, or escape into a secluded natural landscape, you can find the right Christmas vacation spot in the state. Here are some of the best places to visit in December in California.

Best Coastal City Destinations

Is anything better than a Christmas filled with palm trees and ocean breezes? California offers picturesque beachside towns, with smaller crowds and special Christmas-themed events. When you visit California in December, you’ll get to experience one-of-a-kind holiday excursions, like ice skating on the beach or lighted boat parades. Among the most popular oceanfront places to go for Christmas in California are the following cities:

1. San Diego

If you’re looking for a fun, activity-filled coastal city, San Diego is an excellent choice. San Diego is home to the December Nights festivities, a gathering of vendors and entertainers, including Santa. The event features an array of stands offering foods and drinks from around the world. If you prefer an oceanfront Christmas celebration, you can watch Santa catch some waves in Seaport Village or try ice skating on the beach.

San Diego offers the best of both worlds — beautiful, sunset beaches with winter holiday events. And it’s easy enough to get there — you can fly right into San Diego International Airport (SAN). Once you arrive, you can stay in a bayfront Marriott or Hilton, or choose from dozens of luxury resorts. While you’re there, you can also enjoy the city’s year-round activities, including art museums, walking tours, and pedal boat rides.

2. San Francisco

Another beautiful coastal city, a bit further north than San Diego, is the famous San Francisco. The city offers some of the best Christmas events in California. For some holiday spirit, walk through Union Square, which offers extravagant displays and holiday shopping at Macy’s. The square also hosts an annual Santa convention, which is open for participation. As you drive through the downtown area, you can listen to “A Christmas Carol: On Air,” a radio performance of the classic Charles Dickens play. San Francisco also provides beachy Christmas events, like lighted boat parades.

If you want to spend Christmas in San Francisco, you should fly into the San Francisco International Airport (SFO). To experience all of the city’s Christmas events, choose a hotel somewhere downtown. You’ll get a beautiful view of the colorful, twinkling city lights if you stay in the Four Seasons Hotel at Embarcadero, but you’ll be closer to all of the action if you stay in the Chancellor Hotel on Union Square.

3. Morro Bay

For the most nautical holiday possible, Morro Bay is the place to be. Every December, locals build a giant crab pot tree made from commercial crab pots. The unique take on a Christmas tree is always on display in Anchor Park, which offers unmatched waterfront views.

You can also enjoy the lighted boat parade in the bay or explore the fanciful Santa House, both offering free admission. Be sure to plan your trip early, as these events take place the first week in December. With a short drive up the coast, you can also participate in the Cambria Christmas Market, with its beautiful lights and local artisan shops.

The closest airport to fly into Morro Bay is the San Luis Obispo County Airport (SBP). Once you arrive, you could stay in a charming hotel right on the bay. A great choice is the 456 Embarcadero Inn and Suites, offering beautiful views, a hot tub, and plenty of room to unwind. For the best seafood, check out the Bayside Cafe and Tognazzini’s Dockside Restaurant.

Best Destinations for Families

If your whole family is visiting California for the holiday season, you can enjoy kid-friendly fun at plenty of popular destinations. Whether you want to ride rollercoasters, explore transformed cities or celebrate the holidays celebrity-style, California offers fantastic Christmas destinations perfect for the whole family. Book a family trip to one of these cities:

4. Anaheim With Disneyland

One of the best places to take the kids in California is Anaheim. This Southern California city hosts Disneyland and the Downtown Disney District, full of themed rides, shops, and attractions. The park is truly special since it was designed and built with Walt Disney’s direct supervision. Parents looking for the best places in California at Christmas will likely choose Anaheim. Kids will love a Disney-themed Christmas extravaganza.

The park and neighboring district offer tons of magical holiday events, including parades, fireworks, lighting ceremonies, and a festival that runs from November 12 to January 9. In addition, the park’s year-round rides get a fantastic Christmas makeover for a special experience.

During your stay in Anaheim, you can also watch the Anaheim Ducks compete in the Honda Center Hockey Arena, taste different cuisines at the Packing District Food Hall, or get a thrill on a Knott’s Berry Farm roller coaster. The best place to fly in is the John Wayne Orange County Airport (SNA). If you want to stay close to the fun, choose a Disneyland Resort hotel. The Paradise Pier or the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa are both good options.

5. Palm Springs

Palm Springs is always an oasis in the desert — come Christmastime, it’s also the perfect place for holiday cheer. Each December, the town transforms with twinkling lights and carolers’ voices. Palm Springs is home to Mt. San Jacinto, which means a white Christmas is a possibility, along with sledding and snow-shoeing. Snow or shine, you can enjoy Christmas activities like roasting chestnuts, decorating cookies, making crafts, and writing letters to Santa. Afterward, be sure to watch the grand Festival of Lights Parade, full of performers and locals.

If you want Palm Springs to be your family’s California Christmas getaway, you can fly into the Palm Springs Regional Airport (PSP). A great place to stay is the Miramonte Resort and Spa, located in the heart of the Palm Springs Valley. The hotel coordinates all kinds of fun excursions, like zoo and garden passes and big wheel Jeep tours, which could make your Christmas trip even more special.

6. Los Angeles

The best spot for a fun-filled green Christmas is Los Angeles. The city is an exciting place to visit year-round. It’s home to the iconic Hollywood sign as well as some of the world’s most famous television and movie studios, including Universal. It also features the Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame, where you can find handprints from your favorite celebrities. At Christmastime, families enjoy the Enchanted Forest of Light display and special themed performances. Since Los Angeles is only about 45 minutes away from Anaheim, you could easily take a day trip to Disneyland during your stay.

The closest place to fly into Los Angeles is the famous Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), but if you want to avoid the hustle and bustle, you might prefer to fly into Ontario International Airport (ONT). The area boasts plenty of top-rated, family-friendly hotels to choose from. An excellent choice is the Dream Hollywood, a pets-allowed hotel with beautiful views of the Hollywood Hills. Wherever you stay, Los Angeles is an ideal spot for family fun during the winter holidays.

Best Destinations for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Those who are drawn to unique flora and fauna love California, which has a climate and wildlife array unlike anywhere else in the United States. The massive state offers plenty of tucked-away places where you can unwind and explore, including national parks and lakes. With smaller crowds and comfortable temperatures, December is a great time to check out these locations:

7. Joshua Tree National Park

Southern California’s Joshua Tree National Park features impressive rock formations, a green-spotted desert landscape, and its namesake Joshua trees with twisted trunks. You’ll find plenty of trails to hike throughout the protected areas of the Colorado Desert, the Mojave Desert, and Coachella Valley.

The nights can get chilly, as low as 35.8 degrees Fahrenheit, so you may want to stay in a local house or homestead if you come in December. Most of the park’s visitors fly in through PSP. You might plan to stay in Palm Springs and set aside a day to explore Joshua Tree National Park, as Palm Springs is the closest major city. That way, you can also enjoy the Christmas events and decorations the city has to offer.

8. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is gorgeous in the winter. Light snow often dusts the mountaintops as the Yosemite Falls continue to flow. The park offers stunning views of giant, ancient Sequoia trees and granite cliffs. For a unique and breathtaking holiday, Yosemite National Park is an obvious choice.

If you stay in Yosemite Village, you can feast on an Old-English-inspired Christmas dinner at the Ahwahnee Dining Room. The fine-dining restaurant is a great place to get dressed up for a holiday meal. Make sure you’re ready for a bit of travel — the closest airport is the Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT), and it’ll take a couple of hours on the road to get to the park.

9.  Lake Tahoe

Also found in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe sits on the border between California and Nevada. The large lake boasts beautiful freshwater beaches, with nearby mountains perfect for skiing. Lake Tahoe is one of the few places in California where you can enjoy a white Christmas, thanks to the high elevation. You’ll also be able to experience relaxing cruise tours, sunset sleigh rides, and hikes through the snow.

The closest place to fly in is the Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO), from which you can rent a car or hail a ride. You’ll find plenty of options for places to stay, from flashy casinos to quiet lakeside lodges. Keep in mind, the south end of the lake tends to be a bit busier and better for nightlife, while the north end of the lake tends to be more peaceful.

10. Mammoth Lakes

The smaller and further south Mammoth Lakes offer another ideal Christmastime escape. The Mammoth Lakes provide breathtaking winter scenery, with plenty of snow and winter sports. After you’re finished skiing, snowboarding, and sledding, you’ll want to slow down and appreciate the picture-perfect evergreen forests. Your sightseeing should also include the Devil’s Postpile National Monument, a formation of basalt columns, and the famous Rainbow Falls.

The Mammoth Lakes offer the most classic Christmas experience you’ll find in sunny California. It’s a perfect spot for a couple’s or family vacation. The quickest way to get to the lakes is to fly into the Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH). For a cozy and secluded Christmas experience, stay in a small lodge or cabin, like the Mammoth Mountain Chalets. These cabins let you ski or sled right up to your front door.

Charter a Flight to Your California Christmas Destination With Latitude 33

California’s cities and parks are perfect destinations for a Christmas season getaway. With smaller crowds and cooler temperatures, many find December to be the best time to visit the popular vacation state. Whether you prefer a beachy, saltwater Christmas, a festive holiday trip for the family, or a quaint natural escape, California has something to offer everyone. Consider seaside cities for some of the world’s most unique and exciting Christmas traditions. Surprise your kids with a trip to Disneyland or Hollywood. Or, unwind with some snowshoes and hot cocoa at one of the state’s inland nature reserves.

However you decide to spend your holiday in the Golden State, you can fly to your destination in luxury with Latitude 33 Aviation. We offer private charter flights, allowing you to access more destinations. Our Platinum ARGUS rating demonstrates our commitment to professionalism and safety. Be sure to book your flight early to ensure access to the aircraft and destination of your choice. Start planning your Christmas trip to California — request a quote for a private flight today.