For anyone who does something for the first time, things can easily get confusing. It is especially true if the activity was formerly thought to be exclusive to billionaires – private jet travel.
Private aviation is a completely different world from commercial aviation. From booking to departure to arrival, the experience is unlike anything in commercial plane vs private jet travel. Traveling via private jet is streamlined, more convenient, and offers enhanced comfort.
If it’s your first time, it’s natural to feel excited, yet you wouldn’t want to seem inexperienced, especially if you’ve been invited by someone else for the journey.
To avoid spoiling your experience like that, here are some tips that you should know.
How To Choose Your Aircraft?
You have a wide selection of private jet types, including Bombardiers, Embraers, Airbuses, and Dassault Falcons, among others. Each model differs in size, speed (Mach number), and available amenities.
When choosing an aircraft, the price and service are not the only ones that should concern you. You should choose the right jet for the number of people and the amount of luggage on your flight. The size of the aircraft will also affect the travel time and, consequently, your travel schedule. Furthermore, some airports have restrictions on the size of aircraft that can land on their runway. So you should choose carefully.
Luckily, the charter companies will help you work on these concerns. They will help you pick the appropriate jet model for your journey. They will also give you some tips which would be helpful for your next flights.
But do not just sit there and listen to what little information they would give. If there is something that is not clear to you, go ahead and ask. It is also essential to learn about the company’s cancellation policies and safety standards. Furthermore, with the current situation of the world, ask about the company’s responses to covid-19.
How Should You Pack?
Unlike commercial flights, some items are allowed on private jet flights. Prime examples are liquids like toiletries; even more exciting, you can even bring a bottle of wine. Some charter operators also allow pets. No service allows explosives, weapons, and sharp objects.
However, this does not mean you can bring as much as you want. Similar to commercial flights, space for luggage could be limited. Yes, private jets have fewer people on board, but they are also physically smaller. Put two and two together, and then you will understand why there is still a limit to how much you can carry.
You can carry your luggage on the flight on a relatively large aircraft. On smaller jets, you would need to constantly put things you need to access in a smaller carry-on bag. It has to be done because larger baggage will not fit in the cabin, especially if there is more than one passenger. For detailed guidelines, refer to luggage restrictions for private jets.
More importantly, do not forget to bring a valid ID. You would need it in case officials need to check you. Passports are the only valid ID for international travels.
What is a Fixed Base Operator (FBO)?
The Fixed Base Operator is where your private jet departs. Think of FBO as a deluxe version of commercial airports. These terminals could be on the corner of a larger airport or in a separate location altogether. For a list of top-tier options, explore the world’s best fbos for private jets.
In FBOs, there are no queues or waiting in lines. Baggage checks are also quickly done. Moreover, expect to see fewer people. Instead of the normal hundreds, you will find only about 20 other people waiting for their aircraft.
Moreover, you do not need to arrive in FBOs as early as you should on commercial airlines. Since security checks are faster and there are fewer people, you are allowed to arrive 15 minutes before a domestic flight and at least 30 minutes for international. Some operators will even allow you to be late. The aircraft will not leave without the one who arranged the flight. But still, it is common courtesy to arrive a couple of minutes before departure to avoid inconveniences.
To know where your FBO is, feel free to coordinate with your charter operator.
What to Expect In The Cabin?
Before your flight, you can make arrangements on what services will be included. For example, you can choose what food and drinks will be on the menu. You can also include or exclude a cabin host or hostess who will serve you food and drinks. Coordinate these things with your charter operator so they can make preparations.
Then, before departure, expect the crew to make a pre-flight briefing. Listen attentively as the crew will discuss things concerning your safety. Currently, this includes conditions and protocols concerning COVID-19.
One service that stands out is that you would not need to turn off your devices, unlike on commercial flights. Wifi is even provided without extra charge. This means you can surf the web, be active on social media, or even make phone calls.
Another privilege that commercial flights lack is that you can approach the pilot in private planes. You can ask him things about the flight and you could even make requests. Although, before you talk to the pilot, ask the crew first if it is safe to do it at that time.
What are Private Jet Etiquettes?
There are a few unspoken rules that you should follow when boarding a private jet. For more detailed guidance, refer to etiquette for private jet travelers.
The dress code, for example. While there is no strict dress code for boarding private jets, you are still expected to dress according to your trip. Wear formal clothes if you are on a business trip and casual clothes if you are going on vacation. Do not overdress or underdress. Above all else, try to look as presentable as possible.
If your trip came from an invitation, there are more important etiquettes to follow. You shall let the owner of the aircraft of the one who paid for the trip to board the plane first and take a seat. This way, you are showing him respect by allowing him to choose what he thinks is the best spot in the jet. The rest of you should occupy the rest of the seats.
What To Do After You Land?
For private jet travel, it is common for a car to be waiting for your landing. Once your jet has landed, the vehicle could go beside it and pick you up right there. You can make arrangements for this as early as you made your booking. But if in case you forgot or you did not know back then, do not worry. You can tell the crew to radio ahead and make arrangements for you.
Another significant matter to discuss is tipping. Leaving tips is not required or expected, but the act is encouraged and greatly appreciated. After all, their hard work has made your flight possible and successful. Additionally, with their efforts to make you as comfortable as possible, they deserve to hear your thanks. Leaving tips will be a great way to express your gratitude.
Conclusion
Private jet travel offers an unparalleled level of convenience, comfort, and exclusivity, making it an exciting experience for first-time flyers. By understanding the essentials—from selecting the right aircraft and packing smartly to knowing private jet etiquette and post-landing arrangements—you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey. Whether you opt for a private jet rental for a one-time trip or plan to travel frequently, knowing how to book a private jet with ease will elevate your experience.
For those who prefer a digital approach, using an iOS app for private jet travel or a Google Play app for private jet travel can make booking and managing flights even more convenient. Additionally, if you’re interested in flying on some of the best private jets available, working with a trusted service provider is essential.
JetsOnSet makes private aviation simple and stress-free. Whether you’re looking to charter a flight for business or leisure, we provide a seamless booking experience tailored to your needs. Ready to take your first private jet flight? Contact JetsOnSet today and experience luxury air travel like never before!
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