Category: Charters

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Charters

What Is an Open Leg Flight? Everything You Need to Know

Open Leg Flight - The Early Air Way
Luqa, Malta - January 17, 2011: Cessna 525 CitationJet

Open Leg Flight - The Early Air Way

Thanks to the open leg flight, you have the very real option of traveling via a private jet without the hefty price tag. Find out more now!

Traveling always leads to new experiences and adventures – and it doesn’t matter why or where you are going. You could be traveling with your family to visit extended family. You could be heading out on a solo trip to explore a new destination. Or maybe you are just traveling for work to meet with a new client. Whatever the reason, the open leg flight is always a great option.

Believe it or not, you are in charge of your travel experience.

You can choose to fly commercial and deal with all the headaches that come with it, such as rigid schedules, long lines, crowded flights, and long layovers. Or, you could choose to fly private and actually enjoy your flight experience.

If you are under the impression that private travel is not within your reach, think again. Thanks to open leg flights, you have the very real option of traveling via a private jet without the hefty price tag. Sure, there may be a few limitations, but there are many more benefits.

Let’s explore open leg flights. Here’s everything you need to know.

Open Leg Flights: What Are They?

As its name suggests, an open leg flight is one that, well, has an open leg. Perhaps someone chartered the flight to where you are currently located. Now, that private jet needs to be in another location (or back where it came from) for another flight.  So, they have a choice – they can fly where they need to go with no passengers and covering all the costs. Or, they can give a deal to a traveler looking for a flight while also offsetting their costs.

In other words, let’s say someone took a flight from Miami, FL to Chicago, IL.  Although it is a great city, the pilot of that jet doesn’t want to get stranded because he or she has work to do back in Miami. For someone in Chicago looking to spend some time on the beaches of Miami, hopping on this open leg could come with a great discount. It is a win-win for everyone involved.

Benefits

When it comes to traveling via an open leg flight, you get the opportunity to experience the benefits that come with flying private. And, the best part is that you can enjoy them for a fraction of the cost! A few of the best benefits are the luxury accommodations inside each jet, the savings you receive, increased flexibility, as well as reduced travel time. Ready for a closer look?

Luxury Accommodations

Whether you have never been inside a private jet or you have only seen inside through pictures or other media, it is time you see just what you have been missing. The level of luxury will vary depending on the aircraft you fly on, but there is no doubt that the accommodations you find on a private jet open leg flight will far exceed anything you will encounter in the world of commercial air travel.

Private airports and FBOs have very little traffic and lines are nonexistent. That’s right – you will not encounter long security lines here. Usually, you just pull up and board your flight within minutes. But, if you find yourself with time to spare, the inside of these private airports bring much comfort.

Once on the private jet, you will find that seating is not elbow-to-elbow with strangers, but rather roomy. The seats are often comfortable and the atmosphere much more relaxed. Again, the level of luxury you encounter will depend on the type of private aircraft you are on. Let’s see what else an open leg flight has to offer.

Cost Savings

When you travel on an open leg flight, you have the full amenities and comfort of private travel without spending the full amount. Though private travel has become much more affordable than it used to be, who doesn’t love to save money?

Open leg flights offer the opportunity to travel in luxury while also going easy on your wallet.

An Open Leg Flight Is a Little Bit Different

True, an  open leg flight gets you to where you want to go while treating you to the amenities that come with private travel, but there are a few slight differences that set these flights apart from those full-priced bookings. It is important to keep in mind that these differences are often minor and do not interfere with the comfort and experience you get when you fly private.

Let’s take a look.

Flexibility

One of the perks private travelers enjoy is flexibility. When booking, you have the choice of when you’d like to depart. And, since you are the passenger, if you get delayed due to traffic, for instance, the jet is not going to take off without you. Unlike commercial aircraft that are on stringent deadlines, private jets allow for some wiggle room.

For those traveling on an open leg flight, the flexibility is still there, but less so. For instance, the jet may not take off without you if you get stuck in a little traffic, but you may not be able to book your flight to travel on your schedule. If that jet needs to be somewhere by a certain time, it’s not going to be less accommodating to your needs.

You choose this open leg flight because it is heading in the direction you want to go – by choice or by chance. You are the one who needs to be flexible if you want great savings!

Open Leg Flight: Special Amenities

Finally, we all know that there are so many special amenities that come with flying private. The biggest by far is often the catered food. When booking these flights, you can have the choice of certain meals or even takeout from local eateries, as well as specific drinks or snacks on board. It’s truly one of the perks of flying private – something you won’t get when flying commercial.

Open leg flights are different, though. Because you are booking last minute, all the planning and scheduling time is not there. This means that some of those special, personalized amenities may not make it on board at all.

 

If you have to fly, fly private. If you want to save money, look for open leg flights. Despite all the differences, there are still many benefits to be enjoyed while on board a private jet.

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Charters

What Is a Charter Flight?

What is a charter flight? Private travel is based on the length of travel, the number of passengers, your needs, and so forth. Learn all about charter flights.

We love options. We love to be able to choose how we will spend our free time, what we will have for lunch, and even the tunes we choose to listen to on a run. Without being able to make these choices for ourselves, life could appear rather bleak, couldn’t it?

It only makes sense that we have options when it comes to traveling. And we do. We can take a drive in our car, hop on a bus, take a cruise, or board an airplane. Depending on our destination, our timeframe, our budget, and our preferences, we choose the best option.

What rarely gets considered when it comes to travel is the option of a charter flight. Maybe it is because we do not know what it is. Maybe we do not believe it is an affordable choice. Or maybe it is just something we do not fully understand.

That last reason? That is why we are here. You cannot honestly make the best choice for yourself when it comes to travel if you do not know all the options available. So, let’s take a few moments to answer the question of what is a charter flight, how it works, what you can expect, and why you will never choose to travel any other way.

Really, What Is A Charter Flight?

When was the last time you flew on a commercial aircraft? To book the flight, you likely jumped online, checked out the hundreds of schedules and flights available, looking at the layovers and direct flights, the times, and the costs. Once booked, you choose your seat, pay for your luggage, and so on. On the day of travel, you have to arrive at the airport two hours before the scheduled flight so that you can stand in long security checkpoints and wait at the gate to board the flight with hundreds of others. When you are onboard the plane, you sit knee to knee and elbow to elbow with a stranger or two – cramped in your designated spot for the entire flight. If you have a layover? Well, you have to deboard the aircraft and wait around a busy airport to do it all again shortly.

Phew. Just reading that can make you exhausted. The idea of commercial flights is nothing short of aggravating. It’s a good thing that charter flights are different.

Charter flights get you where you need to be quick without all the unnecessary hassle.

  • There are no set schedules that must plan your travel around.
  • There are no long security lines and cramped quarters with strangers.
  • There are no time-consuming layovers.

When you charter a flight, you have more control over your air travel than you ever will on a commercial aircraft. After all, you are the passenger, rather than being one of the hundreds of passengers.

What You Should Expect on Your Charter

Charter flights are referred to as private flights because they offer you so much privacy. So, this is something you should definitely expect when it comes to flying on a chartered aircraft – and it all starts with the FBO, which is a private airport. Some of these are found on the grounds of major airports while others have a private airfield all their own. And, unlike busy, crowded commercial airports, you will find that FBOs are often quiet with luxurious accommodations – and no long lines.

Getting to the aircraft, though, is just the beginning. Once onboard, you will be delighted with comfortable accommodations that seem roomier than commercial planes, despite their much smaller size. Because you are traveling alone – or with those individuals you are bringing with you – that crowded feeling is nonexistent. You can laugh, talk, and enjoy each other’s company knowing that you are in a private setting.

For many, real-life seems to shut down while in the air. And even if you do choose to pay a little extra for that wi-fi access on your commercial flight, the speed is often so slow it is impossible to get much done. When flying on a private charter, you can have access to a high-speed wi-fi connection, sound systems and entertainment systems, and even satellite television. While this may vary by jet, it is definitely a common perk in the private travel world.

Finally, remember when you used to board an aircraft for a flight and you would be given a meal to eat? Commercial airlines have long since canceled this service, but not private jets. When you book a chartered flight, you can request a specific meal or even takeout from your favorite restaurant. So, while you are on your way to your destination, you can enjoy a nice meal. And, if you would like – you can even take a quiet, private nap afterward!

Why Flying Private is the Way to Travel

Flying private is the go-to travel option for anyone who has ever given it a try. There are so many perks – in addition to the ones we have talked about – that it is hard to go back to commercial travel.

  • Flexibility in flight times and schedules
  • Choice of aircraft and accommodations
  • Worry-free boarding
  • Always a direct flight
  • Last-minute flights in as little as two hours
  • Avoid security checkpoints – simply get out of your car and board the flight if you wish

Not to mention that in a world of a global pandemic, health and safety concerns are a top priority. Flying on a chartered jet gets you where you need to go in a sanitized, socially distanced environment.

Chartering a Flight

Booking a chartered flight is as easy as it is to book commercial. Online forms allow you to choose your destination as well as the date and time you want to travel and submit it for a quote. Private travel is based on the length of travel, the number of passengers, your needs, and so forth. Jet charter specialists put together the best quote for you – without any commitment. And, when you are ready to book, they will handle all the details for you while you get your bags packed. If you asked yourself “What is a charter flight”, now you know everything there is.

 

Looking forward to chartering your first private jet? Let’s do it!

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Charters

Why the Cheapest Private Jet Charter Isn’t Always the Best Option

Unethical business practices are often seen with the cheapest private jet charter companies. Know what to watch out for when booking your next jet charter. 

Written by:
Alex M. Early, CEO of The Early Air Way

The Cheapest Private Jet Charter: A Story

I’ve wanted to write a blog post on this very important subject for a little while now. A series of phone calls I received starting last Thursday prompted me to do it now, however. This is going to be the first of a two-part posting. The next will be on “illegal charters.”

On Thursday night, I received an after-hours call from the owner of a purported cheapest private jet charter company that I will not be naming. This person somehow had access to an internal e-mail thread my company uses as one of many methods of trading empty-leg segments on aircraft. When he called me, he explained that he was interested in covering a trip of ours. Because it was after-hours, the trip was weeks away, and I had never heard of this guy or his company before, I asked him to e-mail me more information and stated that I’d review it in the morning.

The next morning, I received yet another call, at 06:00 a.m. Our receptionist explained to me that this same guy was calling, and wanting to “cover” another trip of ours for “a great price.” I told my receptionist to take a message, and then I did a little Google sleuthing and consulted with a colleague. Google showed me that this guy just bought his website only a couple months ago, had never worked in business aviation before, had all sorts of postings across the internet flaunting stock images of various status symbols, along with consistent messaging claiming he was the cheapest private jet charter around. The colleague of mine whom I consulted immediately forwarded me an e-mail from another reputable company in the industry about a trademark issue with this guy’s purported company name as well.

A little while later, I returned the phone call. I was told that this guy’s company owns a large fleet of “floating” aircraft around the country, and would immediately cover every single one of our client’s flights for about 1/3 less than we’re accustomed to paying. After, I asked him if he has an FAA part 135 operating certificate and he explained to me that he did. I proceeded to ask him for the certificate number so that I could do further research and he said “only after we do the deal.” I then explained that The Early Air Way would never utilize services without having completed a background check on a certificate, let alone knowing that a certificate even actually exists. After I said that, I was told to “go *%@& yourself,” just before being hung up on. Nice guy, huh?

Further sleuthing brought me to his website. Right on the homepage, again, was the message of them being the cheapest private jet charter available. They were explaining that this was the answer for charter clients who are concerned about their safety and security. I then saw a clause saying, verbatim, that [XXX as a proud “Platinum Certified Wyvern Member”, performs regular screens and audits….].

The “Wyvern Broker”

Well, The Early Air Way is an official “Wyvern Broker,” so I naturally know a bit about the Wyvern system and have contacts within the company. I know that there is absolutely no such thing as a “Platinum Certified Wyvern Member.” I decided to call a friend at Wyvern to see if this company really was a Wyvern provider, however. I was told that they in fact had nothing to do with Wyvern, the leading 3rd party aviation safety auditing firm, and had ignored three demands to remove the aforementioned verbiage from their website. My Wyvern rep said that they would sue if they had to, but always like taking care of these things outside of court if possible.

Takeaway

As I’m sure you’d agree, this is not the type of person and/or company you’d like to be doing business with. You wouldn’t want to trust your funds with this person/company, and you certainly wouldn’t want to trust your safety with this person. For the naïve consumer however, their website claims that they are the “world’s premier source of private aviation”, the “cheapest private jet charter”, and have the highest safety standards in the industry. The truth is that those claims are lies, but so many would have no way of knowing that.

Conclusion

There are a handful of shady companies like that out there. The consumers who generally fall prey to them are the ones that are often lured in by the shady companies’ messaging on “cheapest private jet charter”. Almost always however, those low prices are the result of one of three things:

  1. Phantom Aircraft
  2. Non-Payment of Federal Excise Taxes.
  3. Illegal “Part 134.5 charters”

While #1 and #2 are unethical business practices that can nip you long after you book your trip, #3 is presently one of the biggest things to plague the air charter industry and poses a clear and present danger to the unsuspecting consumer. While doing research for your next trip, don’t be so quick to book with the cheapest private jet charter company.

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Charters Travel Tips

First Time Flyer Guide to Private Jet Charter

It’s exciting to be a first time flyer upon a private jet charter. So here is a guide to help you be prepared and make the most of this first time experience.

Private jet charters have been available for many, many years. And, for a long time, flying private was thought of as the preferred travel method for celebrities and top business executives – with most average, everyday people feeling as though they can’t afford it.

Here’s some news you are going to want to know. Traveling via a private jet is much more affordable than you may imagine. And, thanks to COVID-19, more and more people are deciding to fly private than ever before. It seems like chartering is quickly becoming everyone’s preferred travel method.

Of course, this now means many people are traveling via private jets who have no idea of the ins and outs, how to choose a charter company, what they should expect, the etiquette they should follow, and so much more. So, we thought we’d fill you in on everything you need to know.

Consider this is your first-time flyer guide to private jet charter.

What is a Charter and How to Choose One?

A private jet can take you wherever you need to go when you need to go. These jets come in various sizes and are built to travel a certain distance before needing to refuel. Some are luxurious, some not so much. But what they can offer you is a way to travel without having to subject yourself to the large crowds, germs, and inconveniences that come with commercial air travel.

Choosing a charter for the first time can seem overwhelming. However, working with a charter service can help you narrow down the best jet for your needs. And, of course, they can also provide all the information you could want about their pilots, their experience, safety records, and more. So be sure to ask!

Watch Your Luggage

Traveling on a private jet charter is a bit different than a commercial airplane. Normally, you may not think twice about what you pack – except maybe to keep your suitcase under the 50lb mark to avoid additional fees, right? With a private jet, the weight of your luggage matters much more as does the amount of space it requires.

You don’t have to worry about checking your luggage as you would when flying commercial, but that does not mean you can take as much as you want. Before traveling, be sure to speak to the charter company about the specifics for your private jet. The determination on the amount of luggage and its weight will be determined based on the jet’s space, how many people are traveling, and so on.

Keep in mind that, while you cannot take firearms, weapons, or other seemingly dangerous or sharp objects on board, you can carry on liquids, drinks, and such.

Behave and Dress Accordingly

Flying a private jet means holding yourself to a higher status. Your attitude, the way you interact with others, and the way you present yourself should all be held to higher regard when traveling this way.

Use your manners. Whether it is speaking to the pilot, the flight crew if you have one, the individuals on the ground before you board, or those inside the FBO, use your manners. Be polite. Be respectful.

Let the host enter first. While it is rarely stated, it is proper for you to allow the host to board the private jet first. If you have been invited to fly by someone else, that person is the host – and you absolutely should not board the jet before he/she does.

Speak up. If you want something in particular aboard the aircraft or you have concerns or questions, don’t be afraid to speak up. This keeps the line of communication open and allows everyone to be on the same page. The result? An enjoyable, pleasant, travel experience.

Dress appropriately. While you generally won’t find any formal dress code, you will want to dress nicely for your flight. You can be comfortable, but avoid dressing in sweats or your pajamas!

Don’t be a nuisance – and don’t get drunk. Remember, you are holding yourself – including your actions – to a higher, more respectful regard while traveling on your private jet. Your flight crew does not have to put up with your bad behavior or drunken behavior.

Tipping the Pilot and Crew

It is customary to tip your pilot/s and crew (if you have one). It is not a requirement, but it is customary. The amount you tip may be considered based on the length of the flight. Tipping these individuals personally at the end of the flight is the most common option.

Follow Directions

If your flight crew gives you special instructions or asks you to sit in a particular seat, then do so. Sometimes certain jets require that the weight be distributed in a certain manner and the like. Since it is their job to provide you with a pleasant – and safe – travel experience, let them do so. It is all for good reason.

Be Flexible

While you can save a bit when you are flexible while traveling commercial airlines, it doesn’t compare to the savings that come from being flexible with a private jet. Reduce your strict time demands and you may find yourself saving a ton of money.

Be Respectful of the Jet

One thing to keep in mind when chartering a private jet is that you are flying on someone else’s aircraft. That means you will want to be respectful of the jet. In other words, don’t make a mess, sloppily spill your drink, and so forth. Besides, you may find yourself faced with a cleaning fee at the end.

Indulge Yourself

Are you ready for your first private jet experience? Indulge yourself. Request something like your favorite magazines, snacks, or games be on board when you get there. It is not often that you fly private so treat yourself!

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the travel world – especially highly-accessed air travel. Thanks to private jet charters, you can still travel timely while also keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. Just be sure to be polite and respectful and you will surely enjoy your first private flight.

Read More:

The Safest Travel Destinations as Pandemic Slows

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Charters Industry & News

4 Main Reasons to Charter Flights for Business Travel

Business travel is essential, even during a global pandemic. That’s why it’s ideal to charter a private jet to not only stay safe, but for many other key reasons as well. Read about them below.

Do you travel for business?  It is sometimes fun to escape the monotony of the office. For many businesses, travel is a way of life. Salespeople may have to travel to see clients, managers and HR people may have to travel to remote locations to meet with employees, and execs may need to travel to potential expansion locations.

However, it can also be stressful. When travel is so important to your business, leaving it to the mercy of commercial airlines can cause huge problems. This is why it is important to plan your travel properly so things go smoothly. Thus, choosing private jet charters.

Here are four main reasons why.

1. More Relaxing

Chartering a jet is a great way to maximize your comfort while you travel. Most people consider it to be extremely relaxing. You will have a lot of space to move around and get comfortable while you are on the aircraft. This is ideal if you have a long flight or if you are flying overnight. Although first class does provide some perks for today’s travelers, it cannot offer this relaxing environment.

2. Less Stressful

When you have a chartered jet, flying is less stressful. You avoid long lines at the airport for check-in, security, boarding, and baggage. Delays for flights are also less likely. Without these inconveniences, travel is much more enjoyable. You will not feel stressed or overwhelmed. This is extremely beneficial when you are traveling for business. Added stress can affect your performance and health.

3. Support Professional Image

For many companies, chartered travel supports your professional image. If you are trying to present a specific image, then it might be better to avoid the airport. Instead, choose elite travel options that will allow you to present a professional and sophisticated image.

4. Satisfy Employees

Finally, chartered flights are a great perk for today’s employees. Many people are more apt to participate in business travel if they have luxurious travel perks. Employees love the idea of relaxing on a nice aircraft with amenities. It is a nice break before the work begins, and might be a good way to reward people for their efforts.

Also, you can get your employees to where they need to be much faster. Private jet charters travel to your destination on your schedule, which means your employees get to their destinations more quickly.

More About the Advantages

Business professionals will always need to travel, but they must also balance their schedules while still making productive use of their time. Although it is usually more expensive, chartering a private jet has many advantages over standard commercial flights. They put the control of valuable time back into the hands of these busy passengers.

Fight Destinations of Choice

Rather than being forced to adapt travel plans to existing flight schedules and destinations, charter air services offer customers a wider range of travel locations and dates.

Smaller jets can access regional airports that are closer to the client’s true destination. This makes it easier to create direct travel plans that put passengers exactly where they need to be without the hassle of layovers or connecting flights.

Passengers also have a greater deal of control over their time of departure. This allows traveling professionals to make better use of business hours without worrying about restrictive airline schedules.

Limited Ground Time

Time spent on the ground navigating the complicated maze of traffic, security and airport terminals is time wasted. For a one hour flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles, it can take up to three hours to arrive, check in and board an aircraft. For busy working professionals, this time is better spent focusing on critical business functions.

Charter jet services offer their passengers more convenient access to the actual flights by operating out of smaller airports. There are smaller crowds and wait times are decreased. Travelers quickly board and exit the aircraft, and checked luggage is immediately available upon arrival.

Convenience

When it comes to convenience, you can’t beat a private jet charter. Instead of having to show up at the airport two hours early and wait in long lines to catch a flight that’s late about a quarter of the time, you can show up 30-45 minutes before your flight.

You won’t have to worry about how many bags you can have and whether they will show up where they are supposed to. You also can fly straight to your destination, even if it is a small, remote city, rather than having to connect through a larger airport, which can cost you valuable time.

Enhanced Services

With a charter jet flight, providers offer additional travel services tailored to the specific needs of their customers. Similar to traveling first class on a larger carrier, passengers typically enjoy more personal space.

Features often include inflight internet access, charging stations for portable electronics, and meal services. Many charter jet companies have special programs that allow family pets to come along for the ride, and hotel accommodations and rental vehicles can be prearranged as needed.

Cost

Though on its face a private jet charter is more expensive than even first class commercial air travel, you have to consider all the costs involved. The speed and convenience of private jets may mean your employee can make it where he or she needs to be and back in a day, negating the need for the expense of an overnight stay.

Also, if you have several employees going to one spot, the overall cost to charter the jet will be cheaper than buying just one seat.

Even with the higher hourly operating costs, it is still possible to afford a private business jet charter. For larger groups traveling to the same locations, fees can be shared making the use of a private charter ideal.

Conclusion

Chartering a plane is becoming more and more popular, and it is growing to be the future of travel. If you fly for business, this option is a great alternative to traditional air travel.

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Charters

A Day in the Life of a Private Jet Flight Attendant

Flying on a jet comes with many perks, including the fact that you can have a private jet flight attendant on-board. But what exactly do they do? Here is a typical day in their life.

Commercial flight attendants have the job of making flights bearable for hundreds of people. However, the flight attendants for private jets have an entirely different job. See, they don’t have hundreds of people to look out for – and they surely look to provide anything more than bearable circumstances.

These attendants are extremely trained. And, they are they to make sure your flight is as close to perfect as is allowed. But, what does that mean? What is the career of a private jet flight attendant like?

To find out, let’s take a look at a day in the life of a private jet flight attendant.

The Travelers

It may seem that being a flight attendant for a private jet would be simple. And, for good reason. Why? Because you only have a few travelers. Maybe even only one. But, the difference of these passengers and those on commercial airlines is that these guests expect more.

You are dealing with the top business executives, CEOs, CFOs, COOs, well-known investors, politicians, celebrities, and more. These are not your everyday people. When booking a private jet, they expect there to be a certain level of attention by a flight attendant.

What does all this mean? For those who handle the job every day, it means that flight attendants for private jets have to go above and beyond to provide the expected service.

Many Skills Required to Be a Private Jet Flight Attendant

If you think that there are few skills that are required for flight attendants, think again. It is common for people to think that flight attendants simply get on board and have everything ready to go. All they have to do is serve you a drink, give you a snack, and maybe provide you a little blanket for comfort, right?

Perhaps for commercial flight attendants. But, when it comes to those that work in the private jet arena, there are so many more hats to be worn. In fact, if you ask a current or previous private jet flight attendant, you may hear that they had to take on the role of a:

  • Butler
  • Chef
  • Problem solver
  • Safety expert
  • Event/party planner
  • Personal assistant
  • Caretaker

And that is just the icing on the cake. Remember, these flight attendants are serving the elite people around the world. They have standards to meet – and exceed. He or she needs to be able to fill this role and care for the passengers and the aircraft during the entire flight.

It’s All About Creating an Experience

Anyone can pour a drink and pass out a snack – but, what kind of experience is that? Will passengers leave the aircraft with smiles on their faces and great stories to tell of the amazing time they had on board? Highly unlikely.

On private jets, the flight attendant is there to create an experience. From the moment passengers step onto the jet, they should be filled with a sense of welcome. From flowers and centerpieces to welcome trays of hors d’oeuvres and flowing champagne, the view upon entering the jet should be extravagant. And, who creates it? The flight attendant.

Anything that needs to get done while in the air is also up to the flight attendant. For example, if a flight attendant has the idea to provide fresh baked goods on board the flight or even present a lovely display of flowers, he or she must take the time to head to the local market, gourmet shops, and so forth to find the best of the best to make the flight memorable.

Then, the flight attendant needs to arrive well in advance of the flight to make sure the cabin is in pristine shape and everything is set and ready for the passenger(s) to arrive.

All of this time and effort go into creating an unforgettable experience.

No Defined Work Hours

Most private jet flight attendants have to be on call 24 hours a day. When a new flight is booked, he or she typically has between 24 and 48 hours to put together this in-flight experience. So, it does not matter what city the flight attendant is in, a new flight booked means hitting the local markets of the city and purchasing everything needed for a successful flight.

This means that there are no defined working hours. Prepping could take a lot or a little time, as it varies per flight. Therefore some flights may take up more time than others.

Flight attendants need to take pride in what they do – and want to do it. Think about it – everything that goes into making a flight memorable is compliments of the flight attendant. There is absolutely no way it can be made to impress with restricted, defined working hours.

Smile, Smile, and Smile Some More

Strip everything away from a private jet and what does it really come down to? The smile.

That’s right – the smile from travelers as they board the jet. Smiles from flight attendants and other crew members throughout the flight. And, smiles as the flight is over and the passengers are gathering their belongings.

This smile lets the flight attendant know that the experience worked. The effort, the time, and the creativity that went into building the experience from one location to another and everything in between paid off. The passenger is happy and – hopefully – will be a repeat customer.

Speaking of frequent (or repeat) fliers, do you know what brings the top smiles? When someone returns time and time again and their tastes, preferences, and personal touches are remembered by none other than the flight attendant.

Conclusion

A day in the life of a private jet flight attendant can take you anywhere around the world – tackling jobs both on and off the jet. Securing catering, fresh local items, and other special items that will make the difference between this flight and another.

Putting on many hats is a requirement. One thing is for sure – flight attendants won’t get bored doing a monotonous job!

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Charters

Our 5 Favorite Very Light Jets to Travel In

There may be times where you and your small family are looking for a reasonable jet. Other times, you and a few coworkers may be traveling to an out-of-state conference. In times like these, where you don’t need much space, you may want to consider flying in very light jets.

In life, sometimes you want to go big – go all in. Other times, though, you just crave simplicity. It is a natural feeling.

For example, when traveling by car, you get the radio, air conditioning (or heat), and comfortable seating. However, when you choose to travel by bicycle, you miss out on these perks.

But, guess what? You gain so much more, don’t you? You benefit your health, breathe in the fresh air, enjoy the sights and sounds around you as if you are a part of them, and feel refreshed when you reach your destination.

This very concept can be applied to traveling via private jets. See, everyone’s travel needs will vary.

  • Some look for large, luxurious ways of getting from one place to the next.
  • Others are more simplistic, seeking the easiest, most efficient travel method.

Those in the aviation industry noticed this need. From it, very light jets were born.

If you don’t want all the frills and instead are looking for a nice and simplistic way to get to your destination, you definitely want to consider a very light jet.

 

What are Considered Very Light Jets?

Very light jets are also referred to as personal jets and were previously dubbed microjet due to their size. Manned by one pilot, they can surprisingly carry a maximum of 4 to 8 passengers.  However, the maximum weight they can hold is typically less than 10,000 lbs.

While nice and much more convenient than flying commercial, these very light jets tend to have quite a few fewer upgrades and luxury amenities that you would typically find on larger private jets. They offer a simple way to travel between locations.

Benefits of Light Jets

Their small size means they can land just about anywhere. So, those individuals seeking to fly into small destinations can get about as close as possible when flying a very light jet.

Plus, with low operating costs, these private jets are much more affordable than other private options. Real-life examples are always helpful, so here are a few of our favorite very light jets to travel in.

 

1. Cirrus Vision

The Cirrus Vision jet is perhaps one of the most beautiful private jets in this size category. It gives you a sense of comfort and luxury without losing its simplistic charm. In fact, you will find that it comes with these standard features:

  • Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS™)
  • Max speed of 345 mph
  • Cirrus Perspective Touch+™ by Garmin® Cockpit
  • Flight Into Known Ice System
  • Modular Seating for five adults
  • Air conditioning with climate control
  • Large windows for exceptional visibility
  • Leather interior
  • 4+ USB power ports
  • Fits inside standard 40 ft. (12.2 m) hangar

Yes, we said the standard features. There are even more features that can be added on. So, depending on the jet you charter, it could potentially have 6th and 7th-row seating and more.

The Cirrus Vision is a great choice for a very light jet.

 

Cessna Citation Mustang

 

2. Cessna Citation Mustang

In the Citation family of private jets, this Cessna Citation Mustang is the smallest. It is capable of holding two pilots and four passengers, with a total of 6 seats on board.

Its spacious interior sets it apart from other private jets in the same class.

  • Top speed of 391 mph
  • This jet can reach halfway across the United States
  • Large windows for extended visibility
  • Leather interior
  • Air conditioning and climate control
  • External baggage storage
  • Digital audio cockpit controls

 

3. Eclipse 500

The Eclipse 500 is another great option for private travel. It is a six-seater with surprisingly a comfortable interior space. Perhaps one of the best things about this very light jet is that is just that – very light.

While many jets can weigh in excess of 10,000 lbs, the Eclipse 500 weighs less than 6,000 lbs. This means it is more fuel-efficient to run – and the fuel savings cost will be passed on to you.

A few other features of this jet are:

  • The ability to fly a distance of nearly 1,300 miles
  • Stowaway armrests, giving more room if needed
  • It has been boasted that this aircraft is also one of the quietest available. Which, depending on what you intend to do while onboard, could be a very welcomed perk
  • Max speed of 430mph
  • Air conditioning and climate control
  • Windows for amazing visibility

The Eclipse 500 is the perfect choice for those seeking a small jet for business or personal use.

 

4. Embraer Phenom 100

Still curious about your options? The Embraer Phenom 100 is yet another great choice for a private very light jet. With a modern design and updated, digital Garmin controls, the cockpit looks amazing.

They went with the idea of less is more when creating this aircraft, getting rid of the things that you don’t need. Its simple to fly, removing many items off the flying checklist. The simple nature will get you up and in the air in record time.

Great care and focus on comfort were taken when designing this Embraer. Here are some key features:

  • Room for 5 to 7 passengers
  • Max speed of 465 mph
  • Interior designed by BMW for comfort
  • Leather interior
  • Air conditioning with climate control
  • Windows for external visibility

 

Embraer Phenom 100

 

5. Daher TBM 900

While the Daher may be the last on our list, it is certainly not the last very light jet available. The Daher TBM 900 is a very light jet that is popular among business professionals.

It may turn some heads with its propeller on the front of the plane. But, don’t let that make you think it is not an updated option.

In fact, this private jet offers more distance and efficiency than many others in its class.

  • Max speed of 372 mph
  • Up to 6 passengers
  • Air conditioning and climate control
  • Windows for easy viewing
  • Comfortable cabin
  • Can fly distances over 1,500 miles

 

Conclusion

There are so many very light jets on the market. When it comes to your chartering needs, do you want to go big? Or, do you want to be comfortable and efficient?

If you choose the latter, then leave the oversized choices for someone else and experience life on a very light jet.

 

Categories
Charters

How to Get the Best Charter Plane Prices in Summer

Vacationing this summer yet trying to stay within your travel budget? Here you’ll find tips on how to get the best charter plane prices during this busy time of year!

Summer is prime travel time for many people. Kids are off of school which means taking a vacation that is longer than a 3-day weekend can be done more easily and without being a detriment to students. Plus, depending on where you are traveling, summer weather makes certain locales much more enjoyable.

Traveling with your family, however, can mean that you have a lot of plane tickets to purchase – especially if you have a large group. Unfortunately, this can take up the bulk of your vacation savings. Instead of wasting your time searching for the cheapest commercial flights and hoping that you can get seats together with your family, why not book yourself on a private jet charter? You can keep everyone together in the comfort of a private jet.

With these tips, you will be able to find yourself the best charter plane prices for the summer.

 

Book the Best Charter Plane Prices in Advance

While every now and then you can find yourself a cheap flight last minute, it is not usually the case. Instead, you should consider booking in advance to get the best deal on charter plane prices.

Private jet charters set their course based on where they are traveling. If you book in advance, the pilots are able to plot out a course and clear up any empty leg issues. And, they will be right where you need them to be – and when you need them to be there.

  • If you choose to wait until the last minute, you may need a flight that is located in one city – not yours – that doesn’t have any passengers to fly to your city.
  • Essentially, this means they have to pay to come to pick you up for your flight.

It is an inconvenience all the way around and you are likely to see the cost of that inconvenience in your charter fee.

See, when it comes to private jet charters, they do not have the volume of other travelers to hold down a particular flight. And though they are more flexible, they cannot carry extra passengers. In other words, once a flight is booked, it is booked. You aren’t getting a ticket, too.

 

Early Booking Helps Secure Your Aircraft Choice

In addition to saving money on charter plane prices, booking early can allow you to fly on the best private jet for your needs – and your wants.

It is easy to shrug your shoulders and say that the flight will be available because there are a lot of private jet charters. But keep in mind that just as you are seeking a private jet for your summer travel, so are many others.

When it comes to chartering private jets, you will pay based on the type of jet you choose. If you are trying to maintain a budget and all the more economical options are already booked, you may find yourself with a heftier bill than anticipated.

Let’s not even mention that you may or may not find one that is capable of handling your family members, luggage, and travel distance.

 

Take Advantage of Empty Leg Flights

Just as we discussed above that sometimes private jets will find themselves without passengers when they need to travel to a new destination for their next booking, this is where you will find savings.

Known as empty leg flights, when pilots would otherwise be flying an empty jet, they can offer the savings to you – since you are both heading the same direction – which can save you a ton of money in your travel fare.

The problem with empty leg flights? They aren’t guaranteed.

If you have a family of six that you are taking to Orlando, Florida to see Micky Mouse in Walt Disney World, you may not want to rely on empty leg travel.

  • First, there is no guarantee that you will find an empty leg flight.
  • Second, you don’t know that it will accommodate your family.
  • And, lastly, it may or may not leave on the dates you require – especially if you are matching it with resort reservations.

Empty leg flights are a wonderful way to save money when traveling via a private jet charter. However, perhaps they are best suited for couples or those with unrestricted travel freedom.

 

Only Book the Size You Need

Just as you want to book early to get the private jet you want, it is a good idea that you make sure it is the right private jet for your needs.

Everyone wants the roomiest, most luxurious jets. But, do you need it? If you are trying to budget your family’s summer vacation travel, then stick to the private jets that will best fit your needs.

A few things to consider are the size of the plane, the distance it can travel, and the number of passengers it can hold.

 

Be Flexible with Your Airports

Part of your cost to fly is the fee assessed by the airports. And, it is important to note that these fees can vary from airport to airport. Flying into a large international airport, for example, may have a much greater price tag than, say, a smaller commercial or private airport.

Believe it or not, these savings can range from a couple hundred to a couple of thousand dollars. And that is a significant save.

So, if you are traveling to a large city, consider the airports that surround the main, well-known airport.

While commercial aircraft can’t fit and utilize all these extra airports, smaller, private jets can. This can save you money. Of course, it may also help get you closer to your destination – and away from busy airport traffic, too.

 

Conclusion

Well, there you have it. Your tips for finding the best charter plane prices so you and your family can head out and explore the world this summer. Budgeting for your vacation is a smart idea. And, just think – with the money that you save, you can enjoy more experiences and make additional memories with your family.

Summer. Sun. Fun. And, savings on a chartered jet? Absolutely.

 

Categories
Charters

8 Reasons to Use a Falcon Jet for Your Next Trip

Determining the best private jet to charter is not an easy task, but we can help. This guide explores chartering a Falcon jet and discusses its benefits and accessories.

You have been so excited about your upcoming getaway. You have been researching your destination and have advised your office of the dates you will be out – you are all set to go. All you have to do is pack your bags and book your chartered flight.

Uh oh.

Did you know there are so many options to choose from when deciding to fly private? Unlike commercial airliners that put you on whatever flight they see fit – changing out planes with the flip of a coin – private charters let you choose your ideal aircraft.

You spent so much time researching your vacation that you didn’t think to look into your best suitable private jet.

No fear. You may be choosing from:

But, if you are looking to make your trip memorable and fly on a private jet you will never forget, you need to plan to charter a Falcon jet. Here are 8 reasons why.

 

1. Falcon Jets Are Voted High on the Charts for Business Travel

If you are booking a private jet, there is a good chance that you are seeking a flight that is quiet with all the amenities you need while in the air.

Perhaps you want to take care of business. Or, maybe you’d just like to take a nap or watch a movie. Whatever you are seeking in a private jet, you won’t be disappointed in a Falcon jet.

After all, they are not ranked at the top of the market for no reason. The combination of class and efficiency is what has drawn people to Falcons for years – and likely will for years to come, too.

 

2. Falcon Jets Are a Combination of Elegance and Affordability

If you only want to fly the best, then you may be seeking quite a bit of elegance and luxury. But, you may be thinking that flying a private jet that is decked out in luxurious fashion is not within your budget.

This is where you need to think again.

Falcon jets provide such a beautiful interior – and exterior – leaving no stone untouched. In fact, the cockpit is as magnificent as the rest of the jet.

Falcon jets use a combination of high tech design and structure that gives them the ability to charter their flights for affordable rates.

This means you have great travel accommodations – and have extra spending money for your trip. It’s a win-win!

 

3. Falcon Jets Offer You an Efficient Way to Travel

Sometimes, depending on how efficiently designed a private jet is, you may find that the cost to travel may be quite pricey.

There are many things that go into play when determining the price of a charter jet – two of the biggest are the fuel and the maintenance. Those jets that require a greater amount of fuel are going to cost you more, hands down.

Falcon jets are designed for efficiency. They are designed using high tech model that allows them to reduce the use of fuel by about 5%. When you add this up over hundreds or thousands of miles, it is quite the savings.

 

4. Falcon Jets Feel Like a Full-Size Jet Even Though They Are Not

Some private jets are built to be small; where some Falcon jets (such as the Falcon 200) are heavy jets.

The noises, sounds, and feelings that you may typically experience when flying smaller, private aircraft, you won’t have to worry about that with this charter.

Instead, from the moment you begin taxiing to the runway, you will feel as though you are on board something much, much larger. This is a great perk for anyone – especially those who have a fear of flying.

 

 

5. Falcon Jets Are Roomy and Comfortable

Are you looking for a jet that will allow you to move around and get comfortable?

Maybe you want to relax and take a nap. Or, maybe you just want something comfy because you are heading out on vacation and you deserve it.

Whatever your reason, the design of a Falcon jet doesn’t leave out anything when it comes to comfort factors.

You will find that once on board, you will be able to move around with ease.

 

6. Falcon Jets Can Travel Just About Anywhere You Want to Go

Perhaps one of the best parts about Falcon jets is that they can travel just about anywhere. You will often run into private jets that can’t make large trips.

The longer the trip, the more stops, the more the need for routine maintenance, etc.

Falcon jets, however, are designed to get you where you need to go without the need of having to stop or refuel.

You can travel across the state, across the country, or across the globe.

Wherever your travels take you, Falcon jets can go, too.

 

7. Falcon Jets Use High Technology to Deliver Stealth-Like Results

Falcon jets are made with some of the best technology in the aerospace industry. They use advanced structural and aerodynamic design.

The company works to design planes that can travel at twice the speed of sound and pull nine times the force of gravity. The same technology that is used to manufacture fighter jets is used to manufacture a Falcon jet.

It is no wonder why they feel like you are traveling in something much larger.

 

 

8. Falcon Jets Care About the Environment

The amount of fuel burned for air travel greatly pollutes our atmosphere.

By investing in technology to reduce carbon emissions and the burning of fuel, Falcon jets are sparing environmental destruction.

 

Conclusion

Before you head out for your next adventure, know how you are getting there. Don’t just settle for any airline and don’t just randomly choose a private jet.

Do your research, know the right one for you, then book it. The Falcon jet is a perfect choice for someone seeking comfort and great amenities while traveling.

Categories
Charters

What is Private Jet Management and Why Does it Matter?

Private jet management plays an essential role in luxury travel and makes flying privately safe and efficient.

Taking care of a car is a big job, especially when it comes to handling routine maintenance. It’s easy to let your oil change go over the recommended 3,000 miles or let the tread on your tires get a little too worn.

Thankfully, auto mechanics are very easily accessible, and we don’t have to worry about doing the work ourselves. And, when we haven’t taken as great of care of our car as we should have, the mechanic can help us with that, too.

When it comes to owning a private jet, the owners are responsible for maintaining the health of their aircraft. But, dropping the ball on maintenance, whether intentionally to save some money or because they simply forgot, can have devastating effects for those on board the jet.

There is an easy way to keep this from happening. It’s called private jet management. And, here’s why it matters.

 

Professional Crew and Top-Notch Training

For those who own private jets, putting together a crew that can care for – and fly – the private jet can prove to be quite a task.

For someone who is normally sitting back and enjoying a flight, how can he or she possibly know that the crew is actually caring for and handling the jet properly?

Truth be told, that’s a nearly impossible thing to do. So, instead, hiring a private jet management company allows for the professionals to step in.

The management company hires those who are qualified to handle the aircraft.

They know what to look for in qualifications and history. And, they know how to properly train other crew members to provide the service in a manner desired by clients.

Therefore, once you are on board, you are confident that you are in experienced hands.

 

Private Jets Maintained by the Experts

Just like cars in the example above, jets require maintenance, too. Sometimes it is minor, other times not so much.

However, when the need for maintenance arises, a jet management company will be sure to have expert mechanics to handle the job.

Aircraft needs more than just refueling. When you are in the air, you want to know that the jet you are flying in has been taken care of – from routine maintenance to deeper, proactive repairs.

Novice mechanics have a lot to learn. That is why management companies also seek out the most experienced experts in the field to go over every detail of the jet before it ever leaves the ground.

 

 

Registered, Ratings, and Legit Paperwork

Jets have paperwork. They need to be registered and approved for charter. They need to have been inspected for safety. When dealing with a company, you are more likely to encounter the proper completion of legal paperwork.

You may or may not know what you are looking for when it comes to the necessary documents, but if you are simply dealing with a jet owner, you may find there is a bigger chance of encountering fraudulent or unregistered equipment.

Don’t risk it. Choosing a charter with a management company means the private jet you fly has been appropriately documented, reviewed, and licensed.

Keep in mind that maintaining proper maintenance records is very important for taking proper care of a jet. Making lists of routine maintenance as well has any repairs is important. This list should include:

A private jet management company can explain these in more detail – and advise of the importance of keeping these records.

 

A Dedicated Team for Scheduling and Dispatch

Having an entire staff on your side for scheduling and dispatching private jets can be incredibly convenient. Rather than trying to get through to multiple people to get a private jet ready for travel, a management company requires just one call.

How is that for simple?

It is nearly impossible to snap your fingers and have a private jet ready to head out. It requires a maintenance team to get it ready for flight and a pilot to actually fly the jet.

Thanks to the dedicated management team, the process is much more efficient with little to know effort.

 

Why Do Private Jet Owners Use Management Companies?

Simply put, private jets are expensive. And, not just when it comes to purchasing, but the upkeep and maintenance as well.

It doesn’t usually take long for those that own these jets to realize that it will allow them to leave all the work to the professionals.

However, besides all the perks of a management company that we’ve already discussed – such as access to the most seasoned pilots and maintenance crew – there is more.

Private jet owners can get their asset cared for and maintained while also offsetting the high cost of private jet ownership by choosing to allow management to utilize the jet for private charters.

This is a win for everyone involved. It saves the owner money and allows those who don’t own a private jet to take a flight when needed. And, it keeps the jets in healthy, working condition, too.

 

 

Safety Among Charters

If you are considering booking a private jet charter, you have a choice. You can find yourself chartering a flight from an owner. This means your jet charter may or may not be well-maintained.

Plus, your pilot may be experienced, but he may also be a novice. Or, of course, you can choose the private jet that is backed by a management company that knows a great deal about the jet and how to properly maintain and fly it.

 

Conclusion

Many private jet charters are owned by an individual and maintained by a private jet management company.

This gives them the ability to take advantage of:

  • Professional crew
  • Expert maintenance and repair
  • Proper registration
  • Handy scheduling and dispatch

It also means that they can offset their costs by choosing to offer their jets as charters.

For those seeking private jet charters, those managed by a management company may be your best – and safest – option.