When you want an excellent flying experience, you might instinctively buy a first-class ticket with a commercial airline. You may be surprised to learn that conventional first-class travel has declined in recent years. Conversely, flying private has never been more popular — in 2022 alone, the number of private flights increased by 11% compared to the previous year. Part of this shift is due to safety-related concerns that arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other contributing factors include better amenities, time savings, and reduced travel stress.

If you’re familiar with traveling via commercial aircraft, you may be unsure of what to expect on your first charter flight. It’s beneficial to prepare yourself before you board. This first-time flyers guide will help you make your experience as smooth as possible — and prepare you for your next journey.

What to Expect When Flying on a Private Jet

Various differences exist between private jets and commercial airlines. Private flights offer a degree of luxury and comfort that traditional first-class cabins simply lack. Some differences you should expect when making your first private flight include:

Flexibility and Convenience

Unlike commercial airlines, private jets do not require you to wait in long lines or go through invasive security checks only to get in another line to board the aircraft. While you’d have to arrive at a commercial airport hours before your departure, you can check in to your private flight and begin your journey within an hour of departure. Because private jets are much smaller than commercial aircraft, you can avoid dealing with the chaos of a large commercial airport.

Additionally, most private flights allow you to bring your pets into the cabin with you rather than storing them in the cargo hold as you would have to on many commercial flights. Wherever you are flying, you can be sure your cherished companion is as comfortable as you.

Once you land, you also avoid the wait of visiting baggage claim or dealing with lost luggage. When you fly private, you can receive your bags immediately upon landing.

Onboard Luxuries

Flying first class was once the peak of aviation luxury, but these days are no more. Today, private aircraft have surpassed their commercial rivals in comfort, convenience, and style.

While private jets are smaller than commercial aircraft, they’re far more spacious inside. You and your traveling companions have the entire cabin to yourselves, with ample legroom and space between seats. Additionally, charter jets can feature high-quality leather recliners, perfect for lying back and unwinding.

Other advantages of flying private include:

• Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on most private jets, so you can use your devices for work or entertainment as you please.
• Refreshments: Enjoy your favorite snacks, beverages, and meals on a charter jet. Simply ask, and your crew will do their utmost to grant your wish.
• Catering: Speak to your Charter Sales Concierge to arrange catering for your flight. They’ll provide delicious menu options based on your food preferences and dietary restrictions.
• Entertainment: If you would like entertainment during the flight, your crew can certainly accommodate your request. Whether you enjoy music, specific shows, games, or even live entertainment, you have the freedom to make your private flight your unique experience.
• Safety: In addition to holding the proper licensure required to fly, your pilot and crew are familiar with their specific aircraft. You can trust that your traveling party is in capable, reliable hands.

Of course, many of these benefits are specific to the charter operator you choose to fly with. Before booking a flight, conduct thorough research on each operator in your area and speak to a representative about any questions you have.

Jet Etiquette Tips for Your First Private Flight

Once you’ve finished chartering your flight, you’re well on your way to a travel experience unlike any other. However, there are actions you can take to maximize your trip. Here are some private jet etiquette tips to help you ensure your first charter flight is as smooth as possible.

Before Boarding

While flying private is quite different from flying via commercial airlines, you should still make sure you have everything you need in advance. Preparations to make before your flight include:

• Arrival: While you don’t need to go through baggage claim or extensive security checks to board a private jet, you should aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and make sure everything is settled. If you need to arrive earlier, you may relax in the airport’s private terminals or VIP lounges.
• Documents: Be prepared to show your government-issued ID as well as any other forms of personal identification you used when you booked the flight.
• Luggage: You can usually bring more on a private jet than you can on most commercial flights, but you should confirm with your charter operator first. If needed, they can arrange a larger aircraft for you.
• Pets: If you’re traveling with pets, you must bring their vet records with you and ensure they meet the requirements for your destination.
• Catering: If you have any dietary restrictions or you would like to make a special request, make sure to communicate all catering needs at least 48 hours in advance.

During Your Flight

On a private flight, you get total control over who flies with you. Whether you are flying by yourself or you’re with a group, you’re free to spend your flight as you please — chatting with your traveling companions, getting some work done, or resting your eyes in peace and quiet.

Some tips for a great flight experience include:

• Safety: After boarding, you should expect the crew to provide a pre-flight safety briefing that walks you through everything you’ll need to know for a safe flight, including emergency protocols. Be sure to pay attention and thank the crew after this message.
• Dress code: While charter operators do not require you to dress any certain way, it is a good idea to dress for the occasion you are traveling for. For example, if you are on a business trip, you should dress accordingly.
• Behavior: Your crew takes special care to meet your needs and expectations, so it is only fitting that you respect their efforts during your flight. Follow the rules and be courteous to your crew, and you should have a wonderful journey.
• Entertainment: While Wi-Fi is available on most private jets, it’s always a good idea to pre-download any games, movies or other entertainment before your flight. That way you are ready if there is a poor connection, weather, or other interference with the Wi-Fi.

Finally, if you would like to tip the crew, you may — while tips are never expected, they are appreciated, especially if you feel you received exceptional service. You may find yourself flying with the same crew again in the future.

Thanks to such attentive service, you’ll disembark at your destination feeling refreshed, relaxed, and ready for your activities on the ground.

Book Your First Private Flight With Latitude 33 Aviation

At Latitude 33 Aviation, we are honored to welcome new travelers. Whether you’re taking a well-deserved vacation or flying to a major business summit, rely on us to get you there.

Our experienced crews will make your first time flying on a private jet an enjoyable experience, wherever you are traveling. Request a quote today, or contact us for more information.

For many, traveling with pets might seem challenging. Many pet owners submit to driving with their pets, restricting where they can go. Private jets can open new travel opportunities to pet owners who want a safe and comfortable option for their pets.

Can I Take My Dog on a Private Jet?

Each charter company has different regulations and stances, but most private jets allow you to bring pets on board. While passengers often bring their dogs, many charter companies have expanded their options to allow other pets, like cats, hamsters, and even birds. Further, private jets often have the room and flexibility to bring multiple pets.

Since different charter companies have different policies, contact the company to check if they allow flying with pets. Latitude 33 Aviation welcomes pets on flights following owner approval, and as long as they’re up-to-date on their vaccinations and have the appropriate documentation. You will need to notify our charter team in advance that you are flying with a pet so that they can match you with the correct aircraft.

4 Reasons to Choose a Pet-Friendly Charter Flight

While you can bring pets on commercial flights, it often involves putting them in the cargo hold with the luggage or sedating them with medication. Pet owners can instead look to private jets for an alternative way to travel with their pets.

1. Less Traumatic and More Peace of Mind

Commercial air travel can be traumatic and stressful for pets and their owners. Pets, especially larger ones, have to travel in the cargo hold. It can be very loud down there with drastic temperature changes and moving objects. Owners are then left in the unknown about their pet’s condition until they can retrieve them at landing. If airlines allow pets to stay with owners, they might have to remain under the seat or in their carriers for the entire flight.

Leaving pets behind can also be traumatic. Sitters, kennels, or daycares can leave pets stressed as they navigate unfamiliar environments or interact with unknown individuals. The presence of other animals might cause them to get defensive and aggressive, increasing their stress further.

Instead, private jets allow owners to stay with their pets at all times. You can constantly monitor your pet’s condition and take adequate measures to calm them.

2. Safer for the Animal

Airports might mishandle animal carriers, leaving animals at exposed risk of injuries. Stressful environments can lead to potential health issues. On private jets, you can care for your pet and ensure they stay safe throughout your travels.

3. More Comfortable

While aircraft cargo holds can get cold, the cabins are temperature-controlled and comfortable. The increased flexibility and space that comes with private jets can allow even larger pets like dogs to move around and stretch their legs on certain flights. Many pet owners bring blankets when flying on private jets so their pets have somewhere comfortable to sit and relax.

4. More Travel Options

Private travel offers more flexibility than commercial airlines. When flying commercially, you must adhere to their requirements, schedules, and availability. Chartering a jet allows you to choose your destination, time, and date so you can travel in a way that best benefits your pet and their schedule.

How to Prepare for a Private Flight With Your Pet

Traveling with pets requires more preparation than traveling alone. Before your trip, ensure you have everything ready to give your pet a smooth transition and travel experience.

1. Go to the Vet for Paperwork and Medications

Most airlines and state governments require pet owners to carry the proper documents and paperwork before flying with pets, even when chartering a private jet. To fly with your pet, you must obtain a certification of vet inspection from your vet. This certification will verify to airports and flight crews that your pet is current on all their vaccines and shows no signs of other diseases.

Usually, you have to obtain this certification within 10 days of your travel date. The vet issuing the certification must be federally accredited. Each state and country have additional requirements about flying and traveling with pets to reduce the spread of diseases, so you should check what your destination has set before traveling.

While at the vet, you can also refill any necessary prescriptions and medications for your pet’s health. Vets can also provide insight into good care and products to use while flying for a better experience while traveling on a jet with your pet.

2. Keep Necessary Documents Safe and Accessible

While private flying allows you to stay with your pet, you should carry identification documents with you at all times. You should include records with your pet’s current picture and contact information. You can also have another emergency contact. Store this information somewhere you can access it easily, along with your vet and medical documents.

If your pet has a microchip, update it with your address and contact information. If your pet gets separated from you anytime during travel, this information can help you reunite with them.

3. Limit Food and Water Before Flights

Private jets might allow more movement and freedom than commercial flights, but they will still be more confining than your pet’s usual environment. They will have fewer opportunities to release energy or relieve themselves. Before your flight, avoid giving too much water and food.

Especially if your pet gets nervous during your travels, too much food can make them feel nauseous. Private flights will allow you to bring food and offer water to your pet while flying, so your pet will still get the nutrients they need.

You can invest in a travel pad to allow your pet to relieve themselves while flying, which can benefit pets traveling long distances.

4. Exercise Your Pet Before Boarding

Because of the limited room and movement, you should exercise your pet as much as possible before boarding. You might walk them through terminals or around the landing strip if possible. Letting your pet roam around before putting them in their crate can release energy and better prepare them for extended periods in one place. Especially if you have a large dog on a private jet, there may not be much space where they can walk on their regular schedule.

5. Bring Comfort and Entertainment Items

While pet charter flights are often more comfortable for animals than commercial flights, unexpected turbulence and an unfamiliar environment can cause some stress to pets. Pet owners can prepare for potential stress by bringing comfort items, like a blanket or toy they love. Additionally, hyperactive animals can benefit from entertainment through toys, giving them a safe way to release their energy.

Fly With Your Furry Friend With Latitude 33 Aviation

With Latitude 33 Aviation, passengers can bring their pets aboard chartered private jets. Your pets can stay with you in the cabin, where you can care for them and ensure their safety throughout your travels.

Request a quote today and discover a new way to travel with your pet through Latitude 33 Aviation.