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What Is It Like to Fly Private: The Private Jet Onboard Experience

An increasing number of travelers are choosing to fly private — and it’s easy to see why. Private aviation offers a convenient, luxurious flying experience, which many people value.

You may be curious about the onboard private jet experience. Our guide will provide a detailed overview of private jet travel so you know what to expect from the moment you step on board. 

The Advantages of Flying Private 

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, you have several flight options available. Here are some of the top reasons to fly private

  • Convenience: Travelers can set their own schedules and choose the most convenient airport from which to fly. This reduces the travel time to the airport and eliminates endless waiting at gates and terminals.
  • Privacy: You can truly relax and get comfortable on a private jet since you’re surrounded by the people you choose to bring on board. You can talk and work freely without worrying about invasion of privacy.
  • Productivity: Without the distractions of other passengers, you can work in peace and may get more work done than you would on a commercial flight.
  • Luxury: You can complete work tasks, talk to fellow passengers, and sleep in the spacious cabin. You can also use the ample space to store your personal and work items. 
  • Affordability: By taking advantage of special one-way flights, you can often experience all the benefits of private aviation at an affordable price, especially if you’re flying with a group.

The list of advantages stretches even further since many aspects of a charter flight can be customized to fit your needs and wants.

Amenities on Private Jets

The main reason people fly private is the freedom it offers. You can customize everything from the flight menu to the interior of the aircraft to accommodate your unique needs. 

Most people are familiar with commercial air travel, including the rigid schedules, potential delays, cramped seating, and many other headaches that come with it. Those considering the private jet lifestyle may be excited about the benefits of a customized flight. Beyond the benefits, novice flyers may still have questions about what it is like to fly private. The following sections detail answers to some of the commonly asked questions about private jet travel.

How Does Flying Private Work?

Individuals or corporations schedule private flights via a charter company. Many charter companies have their own aircraft, while others rent the aircraft. Some companies that rent aircraft manage the aircraft for the owner, facilitate bookings, and ultimately give the owner a lease back. You can charter private flights to fit your schedule — unlike one-way flights, which rely on predetermined routes. One-way flights are those that have passengers on the way to a destination but not on the return journey. In some cases, customers can book a flight on a one-way flight for a discounted price. However, finding a one-way flight that fits all your travel criteria — such as your desired date, time, and location — is nearly impossible if you are doing the research alone. Finding the perfect one-way flight that fits your itinerary is easy if you work with an operator or broker.

You can schedule private flights as early as months ahead or as late as 24 hours before departure. Specifying your departure time allows you to plan your future trip or book a flight for the same day in emergencies. No ticket is necessary for private flights since you’ll get an email itinerary from the charter company. This itinerary also includes information about the flight crew and pilots.

While private jets are extremely convenient and you can book them at short notice, there are some time limitations. Private flights need time to prepare, so it’s unlikely you can get a flight within minutes. Depending on the aircraft’s location, it may be at least a day before you can board and take off. Additionally, it may take longer to give the plane and flight crew enough time to prepare the aircraft for safe flying. 

Are Private Jets Faster Than Commercial Jets?

Depending on the aircraft and route, private jets typically travel faster than commercial aircraft. They are also afforded many time-saving privileges that shorten the overall length of the journey.

Private jets can fly out of almost any airport, big or small. Often, smaller airports that aren’t major hubs are more cost-effective. There are also many general aviation airports from which only chartered jets can fly, so passengers can choose the one closest to them and save time commuting. Once at the airport, you move from the terminal to the cabin quickly and take off soon after. Without needing to navigate giant, crowded runways and large numbers of passengers, private jets often end up in the air sooner than commercial jets.

Private jets also tend to fly higher than commercial jets. A higher altitude reduces the chances of dealing with air traffic and bad weather, both of which reduce the amount of time it takes to arrive at the destination.

One of the pros of flying private is the passenger can have more input about the flight — this includes the routes. Commercial airlines often cannot take a direct route, but private jets are not bound to the rules and regulations of large airlines and airports. If you want to get to your destination quicker, request a direct route. Similarly, you can request an indirect route if you want to enjoy a little extra time on the plane and enjoy the scenery longer.

Are Private Jets Safe?

Private jets are just as safe as commercial jets. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) outlines safety rules for both commercial and private jets. Specifically, all companies must ensure the aircraft is well maintained, inform passengers about safety procedures, and train knowledgeable pilots and staff.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also has specific recommendations for fixed-base operators (FBO) — that is, the places from which many charter jets fly. TSA offers recommendations for pilots, crew, and aircraft mechanisms.

On top of these regulations, charter companies have their own ways of vetting staff and crew to ensure clients receive the best service. When researching a charter company, it’s a good idea to inquire about the experience of the pilots, particularly how many hours they’ve flown in the specific aircraft you’ll be using. You can also find out how the company vets its crew. It’s likely the company will be more than happy to explain how they are taking steps to ensure a safe and comfortable flight for you.

In addition, you can check the charter company’s ARGUS rating. ARGUS is an independent rating system for private jet operators that aims to help charter companies adhere to an internationally recognized standard. Companies that boast an ARGUS Platinum rating, like Latitude 33 Aviation, indicate to passengers and potential clients that they take safety very seriously.

Flying privately typically means you don’t need to travel with dozens of strangers. Passengers on a private jet often know each other and can enjoy time together during the flight.

Do Passengers on Private Flights Go Through TSA?

Yes, passengers aboard private jets go through security. However, removing shoes or separating liquids isn’t necessary — in fact, private charter jets enable you to carry greater liquid quantities. You can bring full-sized bottles of your cosmetics and shampoo, as well as sealed or unsealed bottles of alcohol or other beverages. Because of this, private jet security for passengers is often faster.

Instead of normal airport security protocol, passengers are searched at the terminal shortly before boarding the aircraft. Charter jets carrying 61 passengers or more must screen passengers and luggage before boarding. The requirements are different for light private jets, which typically seat between four and eight people. These jets are exempt from conducting the same inspection as commercial flight passengers.

What Can You Bring on Charter Jets?

Charter jet flights allow more freedom with luggage weight allowances. However, the size of the aircraft could impact how much baggage will fit on board. Since the baggage will be in the cabin with passengers, it needs to be able to fit in the space without blocking passageways. Otherwise, you can bring whatever you like on a charter jet. 

Pets are welcome aboard a charter flight and can keep you company in the cabin. Like with commercial flights, you need to make sure your pet is up to date on required vaccinations, and you are responsible for obtaining any required documentation.

For international flights, you will need to make sure you have the appropriate documentation and meet the requirements of the arrival country. This can include getting a separate visa for your pet.

Can Private Jets Land Anywhere?

The short answer is yes, private charter jets have the privilege of landing at any airport in the country. It’s best to discuss your options with your aviation broker to see which airport is convenient and within your budget.

There may be fewer airports available for landing internationally. Charter jets must follow the rules and regulations of foreign countries, and the charter company may need to obtain permission to land at an international airport.

Can You Use Electronics on a Private Jet?

One of the pros of flying private is the opportunity to be more productive than you could on a commercial flight — even in first class. On private jets, you can bring your laptop, tablet, and phone and get work done in peace and comfort. Many private jets also offer Wi-Fi. If you need the internet to work or you plan to spend the flight browsing the web, you’ll need to request an aircraft with Wi-Fi capabilities.

While you can bring and use your electronics on a private jet, the Federal Communications Commission requires all passengers to switch electronics like telephones and tablets onto airplane mode while the aircraft is flying. This is especially necessary during takeoff and landing to ensure there is no interference with the aircraft’s navigation systems. The FAA is a little more lenient on this and suggests that electronics can be used during the flight if the aircraft crew deems they will not interfere with navigation or communication systems.

These regulations only apply to electronics that may interfere with communication systems, which means electronics like pacemakers, electric shavers, and portable recorders are exempt and can be used throughout the flight.

Do You Need a Passport or Visa on a Private Jet Flight?

Most charter jet flights are domestic, so a passport is usually not necessary. However, if you are planning to charter a jet to an international city, the immigration laws of that country still apply. You will be responsible for bringing your passport and visa to ensure entry.

Travel documentation also applies to any children or pets who may be traveling with you. It’s best to double-check the immigration requirements of your destination country and make sure you have all the appropriate paperwork ahead of time. This is especially crucial when it comes to visas since many of them require an application and take several weeks for approval.

When traveling on a private charter jet, customs and immigration are generally much quicker for many of the same reasons that security is quicker. The reduced number of passengers and the special terminal where charter jets land means officials can check and stamp in minutes.

Is Food Served on Private Flights?

Food can be served on private flights if the passengers request it. The perk of charter flights is you’re not limited to the same airplane food you’re likely to get on commercial flights. Instead, passengers can request almost any meal they want. More freedom allows passengers with strict dietary requirements to choose a meal they can enjoy. 

Because private flights tend to be shorter than commercial ones, many passengers request simpler meals — like trays of fruits and vegetables or selections of cheeses that are easy to eat and share without reheating. However, requesting specific meals from specific restaurants is also a possibility if you desire.

The restaurant will need to pack food orders in a way that will stay fresh and allow for reheating on the plane. Some private jets have microwaves on board, while others have reheating ovens, so the packaging must be compatible with both. In addition, some restaurants decline to cater to private jets because their food will need warming up, impacting the quality.

Other considerations for private jet food are ease of eating and aroma. It’s best to avoid pungent foods, as the aroma will remain in the cabin until the aircraft lands and the crew opens the doors. It’s also a good idea to choose foods that are convenient to eat so you can reduce messes.

Regardless of what you want on the flight, there’s a good chance the charter company will oblige you. You should be aware you’ll be paying for the food itself in addition to the logistics of getting it to you. For example, if you want a specific meal from a restaurant, the meal price would include the cost of the food, as well as the gas and time the charter company uses to drive there and pick it up. 

Are Seat Belts Still Necessary on Private Jets?

The FAA requires seat belts and emergency protocols, so even private jet passengers need to wear seat belts during takeoff, landing, and any other time the private jet crew deems it necessary. FAA regulations state that the crew must brief every passenger on board on how to properly lock and unlock their seat belt or seat harness before the aircraft can take off. 

What Are the Toilets Like on Private Jets?

Private jet interiors vary in size, so some smaller jets don’t have bathrooms at all. This isn’t as much of a problem, considering many charter jet flights are just a few hours long. Passengers are simply advised to use the facilities at the FBO or at their destination.

Jets with toilets onboard have accommodations that range from luxurious and elegant to the bare minimum. Smaller jets may have a toilet behind a curtain. Others may have a standard bathroom similar to those on commercial planes but a little more enclosed — making them potentially uncomfortable for people who are bigger or taller than average.

A fully enclosed bathroom on a private jet usually includes a toilet, a sink, and a vanity mirror. These bathrooms usually have folding or sliding doors to make for easier access.

The bathroom facilities on a private jet vary by the model of the aircraft. It’s always a good idea to double-check whether a toilet is one of the included amenities and, if so, what sort of toilet it is. Even if your jet has a toilet on board, it may not be the most comfortable option, and you may opt to use the facilities at the FBO prior to takeoff instead.

Are the Seats Comfortable on Private Jets?

One of the greatest benefits of private charter jets is the luxury and comfort they provide. Private jets offer additional legroom and reclining space — even more than first-class commercial seats — mostly because private jets typically transport 10 or fewer people. With fewer passengers, you have more space to spread out, and this applies both to your body as well as your belongings, such as computers.

Some private jet models are even equipped with sofas or beds, allowing for ultimate comfort and the option to change positions with ease.

Experience the Luxury of Charter Jet Flights With Latitude 33 Aviation

With charter aircraft located throughout the nation, Latitude 33 Aviation is prepared to charter your next flight. We’re the only private jet operator in San Diego with an ARGUS Platinum safety rating, and we set the standard for private air travel. Our expert crew is available to answer all your questions about your next custom flight.

Get in touch with our concierge charter department by calling 864.660.0310. You can also request a quote today.

 

Private Aviation Trends for 2024

While the COVID-19 pandemic may still present some challenges to air travel, the effects in 2024 are significantly less severe. The private aviation industry is now shifting its focus to new areas of growth, namely green initiatives, on-demand flights, and travel to remote destinations. These trends will set a precedent for 2024 as many regular commercial and private flyers continue their regular aviation routes.

If you’re interested in flying private, you may want to know more about how these trends impact current aviation processes. Learn how air travel trends have changed since the pandemic and how these shifts could affect the private jet market.

The Future of Private Jet Travel in 2024

The attractiveness of private jet travel has led to many private jet charter industry changes. These changes have affected both private jet owners and charter clients. Many private jet owners have invested more in fuel-efficient aircraft and upgraded digital technology. Those in the private aviation industry also have seen more first-time flyers and clients traveling with their pets and children.

In 2020, many travelers prized private jets for their privacy and ability to reduce contact with other flyers. In 2024, this trend will continue, as private aviation allows for small flight capacities. In addition to privacy, there are many evergreen benefits that private jet travel customers can harness. For example, private and corporate aviation companies provide a diverse set of clients, from corporate workers to families, with faster travel and a more luxurious experience.

If you are interested in the private aviation market, here are some of the top private jet trends expected for the rest of 2024.

1. Flying On-Demand

An emerging trend in 2024 is on-demand private jet services. By requesting a private flight from a private jet charter, travelers enjoy enhanced flexibility without the costs and responsibilities of owning their own jet.

The concept of on-demand flights is similar to ride-booking services. A private jet charter company will feature a range finder tool on its website or app, allowing the customer to select their starting location and compare aircraft types to find the best fit. Then, they can contact the company and quickly set up their charter details.

Similarly, empty-leg charter flights are becoming a more popular choice, allowing fliers to find a specific route that suits their needs. In some cases, they can hop on the flight in just a few hours from booking it.

2. Alternative Private Aircraft Options

In the past, flying private meant traveling via a jet. While jets are still the most popular option, there are now several other private aircraft types available, making this kind of travel more convenient and cost-effective than ever before. For example, those flying private might charter or invest in:

  • Turboprops: These mid-sized aircraft use a gas turbine engine to propel the propeller. They are slightly slower than traditional jet engines yet more fuel efficient.
  • Very light jets: While these jets have slightly smaller engines than conventional jet engines, they are an increasingly popular choice due to their speed and fuel efficiency.
  • Light jets: These aircraft offer the best of both worlds — increased space and fuel efficiency. As most models accommodate up to nine passengers, they’re an economic choice for flying small corporate teams to international head offices.

3. More First-Time Flyers

Since there’s a chance to bring in flyers who aren’t used to flying private, the private jet charter industry will continue to see greater marketing efforts geared toward these potential customers. This new customer base comes from those who regularly fly first-class or business class. While previous marketing efforts focused on the luxurious experience and faster flights, operators are now appealing to potential flyers by continuing to highlight the increased safety and hygiene of private jets.

In addition to safety, the private jet industry can focus on the convenience of the boarding process. Instead of waiting in lines, most passengers drive right up alongside their private jet charter and board the aircraft upon arrival.  As the jet is waiting on the passenger, it can usually depart soon after they have boarded. Otherwise, flyers can wait at private facilities with fast Wi-Fi, workstations, and refreshments, so they can make the most of their time.

4. Use of Digital Technology

Corporate aviation has been implementing more advanced digital technology in their facilities and private jets for a while now to improve the experience of flyers. For example, digital tech like in-flight Wi-Fi is quite popular as it allows passengers to do work or unwind during the flight. While the increase of digitization may have been introduced out of safety concerns, it remains because of its enhanced convenience. Reducing the number of touchpoints enables passengers to breeze through key steps, like placing a charter flight, checking in, paying, boarding, and disembarking.

To attract flyers and give them more peace of mind while flying, it’s likely the private jet industry will see an increase in a few key pieces of digital technology. By providing passengers with real-time updates about their flight and the conditions at their destination, companies deliver a better user experience. In addition, companies can make the buying process easier and safer in their facilities and on jets through the use of technology with contactless payment options.

5. More Routes to Eliminate Connecting Flights

Passengers catching connecting flights need to pass through terminals, adding additional time to a trip. Private operators have greater flexibility in their ability to reduce connecting flights, helping to make the travel experience shorter and easier.

While commercial flights often need connecting flights to facilitate the needs of thousands of passengers, private aircraft can fly into smaller airports in remote locations that commercial airlines may not be able to reach. This allows private aircraft to fly direct routes to a passenger’s destination of choice.

Private jet operators will continue to maximize their operations to increase flights to remote destinations. Operators can change their routes to reduce any need for stops or connecting flights. All of these offerings can appeal to people who regularly fly commercial but want to reduce their need for connecting flights.

6. Sustainable Aviation Fuels

Discussion of carbon emissions is often found across private jet charter news. In light of rising concerns surrounding climate change, sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) have become more prevalent. Research by McKinsey found that the majority of consumers prefer buying from or working with companies that prioritize sustainability. Private jets employing SAFs can appeal to these greater demands for ethical and environmentally responsible products or services.

When compared to fossil jet fuels, experts see SAFs as a clean substitute. SAFs come from sustainable sources, unlike petroleum-based fossil fuels. Since these fuels offer a more environmentally friendly option than petroleum-based ones, airlines can use them to attract customers interested in sustainability and social responsibility. Customers with personal sustainability goals will be much more attracted to taking private jets running on SAFs rather than commercial flights fueled by petroleum.

Besides attracting flyers with sustainability concerns, operators that switch to SAF fuels in 2024 can stay ahead of potential regulations. As fossil fuels fall out of favor, commercial and private aircraft will face public pressure, and possibly regulation, concerning the use of fossil fuels. If an operator gets ahead of the curve now, they can set up the needed relationships with SAF companies to supply their fleet and avoid falling behind other forward-thinking businesses.

7. Younger Passengers and Pets

While some business aviation has slowed due to the reliance on remote meetings, leisure travel is in full swing. Families with children and pets are expected to continue to use charter flights throughout 2024 and beyond. Due to this trend, private jet operators have begun to offer greater accommodations for pets and children.

To appeal to families with small children, operators outfit their planes with booster seats and sleeping areas where a child can nap comfortably. Private jets also invest in on-board entertainment systems designed for children to help them stay occupied on a long flight. Additionally, many private jets also offer toys and books for children to play with or read while flying.

Forward-looking operators also store refreshments that are healthy and appropriate for children. Private jet staff should be trained to handle milk and baby food as well, storing it in appropriate locations that are easy for parents to access while on flight. Private jet travel can offer greater flexibility for parents who need to bring medications on board that might be subject to liquid limits and other restrictions on commercial flights.

8. Managing Costs

Operators and flyers in the private jet charter industry are both going to be looking for ways to manage rising costs. Limited capacity based on new charter clients entering the market and declining private aircraft manufacturing over several years has placed pressure on the overall availability of flight options.

Although costs have increased due to the low supply and high demand for private travel, flyers can take certain measures to manage the cost of their flight. Traveling on off-peak hours and picking up an empty-leg flight are just two ways travelers can reduce their costs on private flights.

Of course, private jet owners still have to deal with several costs related to the operation of their jets, such as fuel and insurance. To remain profitable and provide more affordable prices to customers, jet owners will need to source parts and maintenance services at a lower cost.

As a result, the industry will likely see jet owners searching out cost-efficient suppliers offering high-quality products and services. Brokers and aircraft managers can help set up affordable flights for their clients by helping them locate the right airports, supplies, and availability.

9. Additional Sanitation Efforts

The pandemic highlighted the need for stricter sanitation, and this trend has remained prevalent ever since. Private aviation companies want to keep their passengers safe and have placed a greater focus on sanitation regulations. By nature, private jets are much easier to keep clean, with fewer passengers to account for and more space to maintain social distancing while on board. Expect to see corporate aviation companies continue to showcase the ease of social distancing while on their flights.

Besides allowing passengers to fly only with their closest friends or family, private jet charter companies are likely to continue maintaining increased cleanliness standards inside the private aircraft, private terminals, and FBO (fixed-base operator) facilities. These strict sanitation regulations draw in customers seeking sanitary environments. For example, many private aviation companies employ specialized cleaning teams to sanitize high-traffic areas such as armrests, handrails and seatbelts. Reputable private charter companies will also use aviation-approved disinfectant products for all cleaning processes.

Intensive cleaning practices utilizing heavy-duty sanitizers were introduced in 2020 and have remained essential in 2024 to help mitigate the spread of germs and keep spaces as clean as possible.

How the Private Jet Industry Is Poised to Evolve

With all of the likely trends for the rest of 2024, the private jet industry is poised to undergo a significant evolution. Find out more about how the private aviation industry is uniquely equipped to handle the new priorities of clients:

  • Need for safety and security: While COVID-19 is no longer an immediate worry for flyers, the private aviation market has a great opportunity to continue to respond to these concerns by working on ways to deliver a more hygienic flying experience.
  • Desire for flexibility: The private aviation industry is all about flexibility, which is exactly what flyers want right now. With many professionals navigating tight schedules, travelers are looking to private aviation to fill that gap and accommodate their needs.
  • Demand for personal flying: While business jet market growth seems promising based on private jet industry statistics, the influx of private flyers on personal trips has increased. Due to the growth of new private flyers, operators may see greater demand from those on personal trips. These new flyers have different requests and concerns than business flyers, with private jets ready to meet their needs.
  • Change to necessity rather than luxury: Many flyers have started to see private jet travel as a necessity for convenient travel rather than solely a luxury experience. For the rest of 2024, we will likely see more passengers become interested in private aviation, as customers see it as a necessary expense to allow a better work-life balance and general time savings. Due to this shift, companies will continue to adjust their marketing efforts to promote the benefits of flying on a private jet.

Charter Your Next Flight With Latitude 33 Aviation

At Latitude 33, we’re prepared to offer all of our clients a luxurious and safe flying experience. As we operate the biggest and most cutting-edge fleet of light jets in the United States, we’re able to get you to your destination fast. We understand that time is everything for our clients, and our crews are trained to get you to your destination safely and efficiently. When flying with Latitude 33, you can expect the ultimate in comfort and privacy.

If you’re interested in investing in a personal private jet to reap the benefits of ownership, we often have several premium jets for sale. You are welcome to contact us directly to learn more about how we can assist you in your search.

Charter your next flight with Latitude 33 Aviation by requesting a quote. If you have any questions, please contact us, and our concierge charter department will be happy to speak with you about how we can accommodate your needs.

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5 Tips and Tricks to Booking Private Jet Charters

Comfort, convenience, and privacy are just three of the reasons more people are opting for private jet charters. If you’ve never traveled this way, you likely have questions about how to book a charter jet and how to save money flying privately instead of commercially. We’ve compiled five tips for booking private jet charters that can help you join this growing trend.

Top Tips for Booking a Charter Jet

There is mixed information online regarding how to save money by flying on a private jet and how to find charter jet deals. What many of these sources fail to express is that charter jets aren’t an option if you are looking to save on your travel needs. Private jets are a resource for people willing to pay for the luxury and comfort not afforded by commercial air travel.

For example, even if you buy a first-class seat on a commercial flight, you are still bound to the airline’s schedule. Meanwhile, by booking a charter jet, you can avoid waiting and fly on your schedule. Flying privately comes with the privilege of privacy, comfort, and flexibility. These luxuries are directly related to what you’re willing to pay for, but they can all be extremely rewarding. The following tips and tricks can help you get the private charter jet experience you seek.

1. Choose Wisely

Not all charter companies are the same, and it is a good idea to do some research before choosing a company. A good practice is to call a handful of charter operators and spend some time speaking with a charter representative. Ask them about:

  • Their aircraft maintenance
  • Their pilots’ qualifications
  • Their safety rating
  • Aircraft on their fleet

A reliable company will ensure its staff is able to answer questions about the business accurately and has knowledge about the industry in general. Inexperienced or unreliable companies may be more concerned with getting clients to choose them rather than providing top-tier services.

Choosing wisely doesn’t always mean choosing the cheapest option. Charter jet deals are meant to be exclusive and, as with most things, if you want high-quality service, you can expect to pay for it.

2. Educate Yourself

woman eating a meal on a private jet


A common mistake novice air charter clients make is not familiarizing themselves with the aircraft. It’s beneficial to find out the specifications of different aircraft, including how spacious they are, what amenities are on board, and what the aircraft looks like.

If saving money is your primary goal, you may have to sacrifice in other areas, such as the charter jet’s space or your time flexibility. But if you want to take advantage of the experience of flying on a charter jet, it’s a good idea to do your research and have a clear idea of what you want and need.

3. Pick the Right Airport

The airport from which you fly can end up saving you a fair amount of money. Unlike with commercial flights, booking a charter jet offers flexibility regarding where you fly from and to. Most major cities have a main airport as well as one or two smaller airports and flying out of a smaller airport could be more cost-effective.

For example, flying out of San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK) may cost more than flying out of Hayward Executive Airport (HWD). The smaller airports may even be closer to your departure city or destination, which means you do not need to worry about leaving early to beat traffic or deal with major crowds.

It’s a good idea to ask your charter professional for their opinion on your departure or arrival airport. They will be able to provide options that may end up costing less while also being more convenient for you.

4. Book a One-Way Trip

Depending on the reason for your trip, you may decide to book a round trip if you plan to spend one or two nights at your destination. However, if you plan an extended stay, it will likely be most cost-efficient to book a one-way private jet flight instead.

A round trip requires the charter jet and its crew to remain grounded until you’re ready to fly again, and the wait can add up to a hefty additional sum. Staff salaries, ramp fees, and loss of revenue from declining other flights mean you may be the one making up the difference.

If you choose an experienced air charter company, your broker should be able to find you one-way deals or other private jet flights to help accommodate your needs.

know the truth about empty leg flights


5. Know the Truth About “Empty-Leg” Flights

There is a lot of misinformation regarding “empty-leg” flights, which are flights that are empty for one leg of the trip. The aircraft will fly to a location to either pick up or drop off passengers, and the return or outgoing flight will be empty, with no passengers. Since these flights are sometimes necessary to reposition the aircraft for the next trip, some private jet charter companies offer access to empty-leg flights as a low-cost alternative to private jet charters.

Aside from the affordability, top-tier treatment is another benefit of empty-leg flights. For a fraction of the cost, you can experience the same level of luxury and convenience as you would if you booked a charter jet of your very own. Long security lines, cramped seating, and the distractions that come with commercial flights are things of the past as well, allowing you to enjoy the comfort of a private plane at a fantastic price.

If you’re in need of a one-way flight, consider taking advantage of the incredible deal provided by empty-leg flights.

Book a Private Jet Flight With Latitude 33 Aviation

Conveniently based in various locations throughout the nation, Latitude 33 Aviation operates one of the newest and largest fleets of light, mid-sized, and super mid-sized jets in North America. As one of the top U.S. private jet charter operators — and the only one in San Diego to achieve the stringent ARGUS Platinum rating — Latitude 33 Aviation offers charter services as well as private jet purchase/acquisition and aircraft management.

With full service and assistance from experienced and knowledgeable staff, Latitude 33 Aviation is available 24/7 to answer your questions and inquiries. Contact our concierge charter department or request a quote for your next charter.

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