Category: Industry & News

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Industry & News

What to Look for In a Charter Jet Membership

Charter Jet Membership - The Early Air Way

Ready to take your first steps with a charter jet membership? Whether you’re flying for business, pleasure or a mixture of both, you are set to have an incredible time in the air. There’s truly nothing like having an entire cabin to yourself, with peace and quiet and personalized service. Work, relax, dine on gourmet food, – the sky is truly the limit.. With The Early Air Way charter jet membership, charter a plane with as little as 2 hours notice and countless amounts of benefits.

For all of these reasons and more, the private jet charter industry is exploding to compensate with increased demands. That means new companies are coming on the market every single day, each vying for your attention and loyalty – but are they all really reliable and safe? Just as it is with any other company, it’s important to take your time and find the right charter jet membership rather than going with the first you find. Follow this step-by-step process to find the charter jet membership for you.

Pilot and Staff Experience

The charter flight industry is exploding, and that means plenty of new companies are cropping up to compensate. It seems like every few weeks, there’s a new company name floating around – but that doesn’t necessarily mean the people working for these companies are aviation greenhorns. Often, staff have years of experience in the commercial flight industry instead.

To find out whether a jet charter company employs staff and pilots have enough experience, just ask! Most companies are more than happy to explain where they come from and why they can be trusted. Look for pilots with a high number of flying hours and staff with years of experience serving in the skies for best results.

Licensing (Staff and Facilities)

Pilots, aircraft mechanics, aerospace engineers, and air traffic controllers all have one thing in common: they require licensing in order to be legally permitted to work. In some cases, facilities (e.g., a private airstrip) must also be licensed or must adhere to regulations, too. These regulations identify that the company takes steps to ensure passenger safety, both on the ground and in the air.

Most importantly, every charter company and charter jet membership must be approved by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA). Businesses aren’t approved simply for being a business; instead, they must prove the business concept, whether or not they have exclusive access to at least one plane, and how they plan to engage in regular maintenance to keep passengers safe. The FAA can (and will) turn down any business who cannot prove reliability. An FAA approval means the airline is likely running a tight ship.

Availability and Flexibility

You have a crazy schedule that just doesn’t make it possible to fly commercial. Can your private jet charter company accommodate your needs? It’s up to you to ask the company exactly how much availability and flexibility they have on a regular basis before you find yourself in an awkward position at the last minute. Not every charter jet membership is large and reliable enough to allow significant last-minute changes, but nearly all will attempt to accommodate you whenever it’s possible.

That said, not every traveller needs a high degree of flexibility. You’ll have to decide how much flexibility works for you. A charter jet company that has a large enough fleet to let you adjust when and where you travel on the fly is a much better choice for travelers with hectic schedules. Conversely, someone who is only travelling for holidays may not require flexibility at all.

Fleet Diversity and Size

Want to fly into a remote wilderness escape in northern Canada? Considering a trip to a private island in the South Pacific? Climbing into a Boeing just isn’t going to work, but most commercial airlines don’t provide access to smaller aircraft. Private charter jet memberships can alleviate this pain point by providing access to a larger variety of aircraft. Sensibly, these companies can only help if they retain exclusive access to aircraft in the first place.

Ask your new potential partner about their fleet diversity and size – how many aircraft do they hold? Do you have any choice in the aircraft you fly in? Are you simply assigned to what’s available when you book? Access to light jets, VIP airliners, and turboprops significantly expands on where and how you can travel.

Reputation and Partnerships

Reputation and partnerships can be a powerful indicator of reliability in the aviation industry. A charter jet membership with a long list of partnerships and glowing reviews from reliable sources is much more likely to provide you with the luxury travel experience you crave. In contrast, you may be taking a risk if you contract with a company that has absolutely no connections at all.

Be mindful of the fact that newer companies may lack partnerships; this isn’t necessarily a sign of incompetence. As with pilot and staff experience, you want to ensure that the people running the company (or flying the planes) have solid references instead. Being unable to find mention of the company anywhere – even if you verify with the FAA – may be a sign of a scam or a fake company that’s only out to take your money.

Exceptional Maintenance Protocols

How does your charter jet membership company maintain their aircraft? Like any other aviation company, pre-flight checks and regular maintenance are an absolute must in the eyes of the law. Both the FAA and the Air Charter Association of America (ACAA) demand very high standards of care for aircraft that carry passengers. This isn’t something you ever want to skimp on; maintenance and safety checks keep passengers safe in the sky.

Your chosen company should be happy to explain their maintenance and safety protocols when asked, regardless of the aircraft you are chartering. A company that hides or is secretive about their maintenance protocols may be hiding increased risk for accidents. Fortunately, most charter companies make this information readily available to all potential passengers.

Flight Destination Options

Where can you fly with your charter jet membership? If the answer is only standard international airports, you don’t have much freedom or flexibility with when, where, and how you fly. Some charter jet memberships are unable to accommodate unique flight destinations. This is because of the increased risk to safety and service they create. This includes smaller airstrips, politically contentious countries, or destinations with unreliable weather.

There’s certainly nothing wrong with limiting service in this way – in fact, even the commercial aviation industry does it. However, such restrictions aren’t helpful to passengers in the moment. If a situation arises where you need to get to one of these contentious destinations quickly, you may find yourself struggling to partner with an alternative charter company to have your needs addressed. Avoid it by partnering with a company who can fly in to almost anywhere (or at least partners with someone who does).

By choosing a charter jet membership that has all of these characteristics, you can be sure that you’ve chosen the right company for your needs. Now, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the flight!

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Aircraft Industry & News

What to Look for When Booking Private Jet Flights

If you want a luxurious flying experience, then a private jet is the way to go! But what should you know when booking private jet flights? Read below for the details.

There are many benefits to flying by private jet. First, flying by private jet charter is way more convenient than flying commercially. There is also always more room on a private jet charter, which means infinite leg space. In addition, the chairs are higher quality, which provides even more comfort for passengers.

But finding private jet flights can be a complicated affair. For those not in the know, you may not understand just how many types of aircraft and options exist.

One excellent idea when beginning your search for private jet flights is to get recommendations from a friend who is a regular charter customer, preferably an owner. Those in the industry can also certainly lead you down the right path or, at the very least, help you gather the facts and differences to make an informed decision.

Before you take the leap into the exciting world of private jet flights we would like to offer up a few tips. Here are some important things to consider before embarking on your big private jet experience.

Weight Matters

Not all private jets are the same and weight does matter. Which jet charter is right for you depends on a variety of factors, not the least of which is how many passengers will be on board. More passengers also equals more luggage, which also equals more weight. Depending upon the purpose of the trip, additional weight might also come in the form of golf clubs, skis, or other sporting equipment.

More people and more weight affects range and may even eliminate the ability to book non-stop service and require fuel stops along the way. Even for the relatively small commitment of a single charter flight, making sure to book the right flight can have a large impact on your overall experience.

Size Matters

Novices beware, it is essential to check out the pertinent information regarding different types of private jet aircraft. The bigger the jet, the bigger the cabin. This may seem obvious but it is relevant in the decision making and something to take into consideration when accounting for number of passengers, luggage capacity, and range.

For tall passengers, a smaller jet may have you bending over while walking through the cabin and toilet facilities can be extremely confining, some no more than a pull around curtain. Don’t allow for the potential disappointment that could come with traveling in luxury only to bump your head upon boarding.

Dinner Meal on Board?

The general consensus goes something like this. You imagine yourself on a private jet sipping champagne while waitstaff dressed all in black pass caviar toasts. The reality, experts verify that corporate meal averages $350.00 covering three or four people and champagne is rarely in the mix.

While catering companies attached to private jet charters are certainly capable of serving full dinners and have pretty much seen it all, the majority of customer requests center more on fruit trays, sandwiches, and cheese and meat trays. It is absolutely up to your discretion to order as you choose, but keep in mind the average trip lasts only a couple of hours so order accordingly.

Traveling With the Furry Family Members

A prime plus for pet owners when booking private jet flights is the ability to have your pets actually with you. As flying pets commercially becomes more complicated and expensive, it becomes even more appealing to travel by private jet charter. Commercial flights come with a host of regulations regarding the size of the pet, the weather conditions, and even the breed of the pet.

When choosing a private jet charter, there are no concerns with your pet being left in the heat or cold on a tarmac for hours, no worries about delayed flights, and no breed restrictions. Some catering companies even cater to pet owners with in-flight catering pet menus. All members of the family will be happy to have their fur babies right in the cabin with them, easing all concerns about pet safety.

Choosing an Aircraft

There are five types of private jets generally considered for charter:

Light Jets: These jets hold from five to eight passengers comfortably and can travel for around two hours nonstop. Although not as spacious as larger jets, they are the most affordable. They can reach speeds of 500mph and examples include Learjet 31 and Citation V.

Midsize Jets: A more spacious option, although roomier, these jets also are designed to carry between six and eight passengers. The Lear 45 and Gulfstream G150 are prime examples and these midsize jets can stay in the air for up to seven hours, and easily fly coast-to-coast.

Super midsize Jets: Generally able to carry up to nine passengers, the super midsize jets can sometimes accommodate up to 12 people. Planes like the Citation X and Falcon 50 are capable of transatlantic flights and are also allowed to land at larger, international airports. Featuring all of the luxury of larger jets, this category offers galleys and entertainment centers.

Large cabin or heavy Jets: Large cabin jets are the largest private planes and seat 10 comfortably. The Gulfstream II or Challenger 605 are fully capable of flying nine hours or 4000 miles nonstop. In addition, they have first-class seating and occasionally sleeping quarters. Heavy jets also employ flight attendants.

Turbo prop planes:  For the more adventurous traveler, the turbo prop planes can hold five to eight passengers and fly up to four hours. Prop planes are short, easily maneuverable, and able to deal with short, rough runways. The King Air 90 and Pilatus PC-12 also have the ability to be outfitted with skis to land on snow or water, perfect for a group fishing trip to Montana.

Conclusion

With so much to consider, it is important not to jump into a decision regarding private jet flights. However, it is good to know that so many options exist. Take your time. Do your research. Talk to the experts. Then go ahead and take the plunge into the world of private jet charter.

Read More:

First Time Flyer Guide to Private Jet Charter
Categories
Industry & News

Wellness Tourism: Why You Should Be Experiencing It Right Now

We can all agree that practicing self-care is important this year, so why not explore wellness tourism? Yes, it’s still possible to take a safe traveling trip for our wellness needs. Read more below.

Remember vacations when you were a kid? They may have been long-haul family road trips, but they were a break from life as you knew it. You had no worries about anything except what fun thing you were going to do when you got to your destination. No school, no chores – just mom and dad’s attention and lots of fun.

Things changed when you got older though, didn’t they? Now, as an adult, vacations require planning and intricate details. Vacations are stressful. And, sometimes, they even involve guilt – you may want to travel to faraway places while your family wishes you’d travel across the country to spend time together.

This year has been one crazy year thus far – so what better time to take a stance and take back the real idea behind a vacation? Take it back to that rejuvenating time you had as a kid. It’s time you experienced wellness tourism.

Wellness Travel – What is it?

Wellness travel is great for both the traveler and the local destination. These places have you heading home feeling better than when you came. They offer something that can help you enhance your personal well-being.

How?

Well, choosing your destination will be based on a personal choice. What are you trying to get out of your vacation? What can make you feel better? What is it that will renew your spirit and refresh your mind? For many, this may be a yoga retreat. For others, it could be spending time in nature. And, yet, for others, it could be pampering at world-class spas.

Wellness travel is about taking advantage of all the personal benefits a destination has to offer. Remove all the hassles and frustrations with traveling and go back to enjoying vacations. That way, when you head back home, you are ready to dive back into real life – rather than needing a vacation from your vacation!

Reduce Stress, Increase Relaxation

Let’s be honest – we’ve all probably spent more time at home in 2020 than we’d like. And no matter how much we’ve always wanted to be home more – enough is enough, right? Everything we’ve encountered this year has brought stress – changes in schedules and circumstances – as well as the fear of the unknown and the uncertainty that encompasses so many things nowadays. We may find our breath hard to catch and not even realize the weight of the stress we are carrying.

Wellness travel will be beneficial to you even if you don’t think you need it. It will reduce your stress and increase your ability to relax. And, when we feel more like ourselves, we are better equipped to handle everything.

Pandemic Travel

Traveling during the pandemic has been rather rare. Many people are concerned about the health implications of doing so. But, with everything we are feeling as a result of this pandemic – the more we need wellness travel.

How can we do both?

Weigh the pros and cons. For instance, if you are going to be out and about in your city, then why not be out and about – safely – in another city? Is it the traveling part? Well, here’s your solution – a private jet charter.

Choosing to fly private means that you can travel all around the world without having to subject yourself to the germs and other unwanted frustrations of commercial travel. This is one of the safest ways to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, it also allows you to travel in comfort with soothing amenities. If you are looking into wellness travel, extend the wellness part to your travel, too. After all, who’d want to spend a week at a yoga retreat to get thrust back into the chaos of commercial travel?

It is also worth mentioning that, with the help of a private jet, you can travel to some of the most exotic and least traveled spots in the world. And, believe it or not, this could be the best place to find what you need.

Enhance Your Life

Traveling is good for you when it is done right. And, wellness travel can enhance your life.

What do you think personal wellness refers to? Most people tend to think that personal wellness is all about your physical wellbeing and maybe even your mental health. But, it’s about your spiritual wellbeing, too. Sometimes you need to step away from life and help heal your spirit. You can do this with uplifting experiences that can bring a sense of renewal.

Choosing the Best Destination

Now that you know what wellness travel is, where do you go? What type of destination do you choose? If you are ready to experience wellness travel and the benefits that it has for you, you have many options.

  • Engage your mind. Sign up for workshops that can teach you a new skill or talent, such as plant-based cooking or sailing.
  • Creative retreats. Release your inner Picasso and Hemingway on a creative painting retreat or writing retreat. Reduce the rigidity of life and just create.
  • Luxurious spas. Heal your mind and body by spending time at the spa.
  • Nature adventures. Get lost in an unforgettable outdoor adventure. It could be hiking, mountain climbing, overnights in an African safari, or even wandering through the rainforest.
  • Hot springs. Something is healing about hot springs and thermal waterparks – and your body needs it.
  • Yoga and meditation retreats. Quiet times and clearing the mind are wonderful examples of wellness experiences during travel.
  • Tropical escapes. Sometimes just getting away on a tropical escape, listening to the ocean waves, and breathing in the salty air, can be all that is needed to find relief from real life.

Conclusion

Wellness travel can change your life. Don’t let the impact of everything that has happened this year continue to tear you down. Rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with a trip on a private jet to enjoy something that will make you feel whole again.

What type of wellness travel is your body seeking?

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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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Industry & News

Sustainable Tourism: Why and How It Will Grow Due to the Pandemic

The pandemic continues to teach us about the appreciation for people and life. This means learning more about the growth of sustainable tourism. Read more below.

In some ways, it seems like 2020 could be an avid traveler’s nightmare. For anyone used to booking a trip and heading out, COVID-19 sure has put a damper on things. Many of us have never spent so much time at home.

The good news is that things are slowly starting to change. Travel bans are starting to be lifted and communities are opening up to welcome tourists. This change is two-fold – it helps to stimulate the economy again and it lifts the spirits of those looking for a change of scenery.

As we emerge from our homes and fly off to faraway destinations, we will begin to notice that COVID-19 has changed things – besides requiring masks or social distancing. Instead, we are referring to the effects of a life-changing pandemic on humanity. Believe it or not, since lockdown, our world has been infiltrated with love, care, and concern for others. And, as a result, sustainable tourism will now flourish.

What is Sustainable Tourism?

Many communities thrive off of tourism, but at what cost? With an increase in foot traffic, there is an increase in the consumption of resources, pollution, loss of sense of community and heritage, among other things. Sure, you can stimulate the economy with tourism, but the well-being of the area is at stake.

This is exactly where sustainable tourism comes in. This is the idea of reaping the benefits of tourism – while still respecting everything around you. For example, with sustainable tourism, you get:

  • Stimulation for the local. Allowing those in the community to fill jobs and meet demands rather than outsourcing the work.
  • A long-term focus, rather than a quit profit. Most communities fall apart when their economies take a hard hit. Bringing in a boost of tourism without any way to maintain it can cause devastation.
  • An invitation to introduce tourists to the local culture. Rather than traveling far and wide to see tourist attractions that can be easily forgotten, sustainable tourism brings the tourists into the local community. It helps immerse them in the local culture, dining, traditions, heritage, and more.
  • The conservation of local resources. Building and growth that takes place in the community are done so in a way that it does not deplete the area of resources and does not cost damage to the local environment.
  • A sense of giving back to the community by any means possible.

There is a way that we can all travel to amazing destinations without causing harm in any way. This is sustainable tourism.

Destinations Off the Beaten Path

As the pandemic still exists, there is still a need to be careful. You can visit popular destinations or those that are off the beaten path. Sometimes, choosing those that are different and not the most talked-about will help you create some of the most unforgettable moments of your life. These are places that may not see the tourism that other big cities see. As a result, your dollar has a mighty impact on the local economy – and can leave a lasting impact.

The best part is that private jets can access even the most remote destinations – even where commercial airliners cannot. You can travel safely and explore places you may have never knew existed. Doesn’t that sound amazing after being on lockdown for so long? We thought so, too. This is the change we will see when traveling due to the pandemic.

Private Jet Travel = Socially Distanced Travel

Let’s face it – just because you can travel does not mean you are ready to hop on a commercial jet and sit elbow to elbow with a bunch of potentially infected strangers, right? Right. Thankfully, private travel is an available option for you.

Private travel allows you to visit any amazing destination around the world while remaining socially distant and safe. Not to mention the amenities and luxurious comfort that comes with flying private, too.

As for its contribution to sustainable tourism? Well, every time you choose to fly on a private jet, you are stimulating the local economy. And, let’s be honest – the carbon footprint caused by traveling private vs. traveling commercial cannot even compare!

Traveling is a Privilege, Not a Right

For most of us, it is hard to think of a time in which travel bans were the way of life. If we want to hop on a plane and fly to some faraway place – there has never been anything to stop us (well, besides responsibility), right? That is until COVID-19 entered our lives.

That right we had to go anywhere in the world we wanted to travel was suddenly stripped away and we were grounded. All this time spent at home – on our street, in our community, in our state – has taught us that traveling is a privilege, not a right. With a few words, our government can shut down travel entirely.

What does this mean for sustainable tourism? Well, once we can finally start moving about like we used to, we will have a new appreciation for traveling – and everything that goes with it.

Time Heals

Local governments have had the opportunity to address things that have otherwise been placed on the back burner. Issues and concerns in the tourism industry are hard to handle when your community is flowing with strangers. But, while time has slowed down and tourism rates are currently low, it is the perfect time for making changes that can benefit the local area. Many government officials are taking this into considerations and making positive changes.

Remember, things are going to be different for a while so what better time to re-evaluate and make adjustments?

Conclusion

Sustainable tourism can benefit many destinations by investing in the local economy, safely handling resources, and allowing tourism to truly get to know the culture. After the isolation we faced for so long due to the pandemic, the emergence of positive travel experiences will be more appreciated and embraced than ever before. It’s the beautiful sun that appears after the dark clouds begin to disappear.

Read More:

How Escapism is Still Possible in a New Traveling World
Categories
Industry & News

6 Private Jet Travel Trends 2020 During the COVID-19 Crisis

Believe it or not, the pandemic placed a positive and beneficial impact on private flying. With that said, private jet travel trends 2020 is growing. Read below for the details.

Travel throughout the world has changed dramatically over the last few months thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. To get anywhere in a short amount of time requires flying – and most people are a bit fearful of commercial air travel at this time. And, for good reason. This virus is not to be taken lightly. But, does that mean you should be leery of all air travel?

Not at all. Here’s why.

Traveling via a private jet allows you to have all the perks of air travel – without all the health risks associated with the coronavirus. That’s primarily because social distancing is key. And, well, flying on a private jet means you are about as socially distanced as you can be. The result? You can get where you need to be while being safe.

Still not convinced? We’ve got just what you are looking for – 6 private jet travel trends 2020 during the COVID-19 crisis.

1. Sanitizing and Hygiene is Taken Seriously – and on a Much Small Scale

When it comes to your health during a global pandemic, you need to be able to trust that all precautions are met. It is difficult to see this occur with large commercial aircraft, as the sheer volume of space and crew is too much to monitor.

Remember, just because safety measures are put in place by large corporations does not guarantee that every employee is going to do their best to follow them. There are a lot of flights that take off every day – and a lot of passengers to shuffle around. To maximize profit, commercial aircraft need to get in the air as quickly as possible. Sure, they may slow down a bit by adding an extra layer of protection – but just how well are those airplanes sanitized?

Private jets work on a smaller scale and they want their health to remain intact, too. Therefore, it is common for there to be extra cleaning and sanitizing of all areas aboard the aircraft as well as routine temperature checks. Masks are also to be worn by all parties at all times.

2. Reopening of Business = Necessary Business Travel

Consumers may still be fearful to fly, but businesses need to open to save our economy. As they do, business travel is going to be necessary for some individuals. With the great risk that comes when immersing oneself in a large group, flying commercial can make many business travelers hesitant.

But, business is business – it has to get done, right? Does this mean you have to risk your health and well-being for the economic security of your company? No, it doesn’t.

Businesses and corporations of all types and sizes have been utilizing private jet travel for years. After all, it has many benefits. Others, however, never really got into the swing of things. Instead, they would send important employees to handle important business dealings while flying commercial from point A to point B and back again. That is, until now.

Businesses understand that to reopen means having to make changes for the sake of keeping employees safe. This need has brought many new users to the private jet community.

3. Welcoming to New Private Jet Travelers

As new companies and individuals find ways to fulfill their needs while maintaining safety and social distancing, those in the private jet community are finding an increase in new travelers.

The introduction of COVID-19 into our lives has changed things up a bit. Travelers who have previously never seen a need or had a specific desire to fly via a private jet charter are now viewing it as their safest option. Think about it – air travel doesn’t have to occur, but it sure makes traveling in general a lot faster and easier.

With the option of private jet travel, you have a safe option to get where you need to be when you need to be there. And, it seems many more travelers are taking advantage of this during 2020’s global pandemic.

4. Reaching Second Homes, Colleges Safely

We discussed above that sometimes we need to travel. Maybe it is to get back home or maybe it is to get to your university. Wherever you need to go, you don’t need to put yourself at risk.

Typically, those in the private jet industry will tell you that it is often business executives or well-known individuals who opt for private jet travel. However, with the introduction of the novel coronavirus into the lives of every community in the United States, this has changed. While the regulars are still traveling, there has also been an influx of family travelers trying to get to where they need to go – and help keep life as close to normal as possible.

5. Protecting the Health of Loved Ones

Speaking of family traveling – protecting the health of loved ones is crucial during this time. And, despite the precautions taken by the commercial airline industry, many people are simply choosing to avoid it and opt for a smaller, more secluded experience.

Perhaps it could be a child with asthma or a well-seasoned grandparent. Or, maybe you have underlying conditions that you just don’t want the risk. Whatever your reason, choosing a private jet for travel needs seems to be the go-to, safer option.

6. Decreased Cost in Private Travel

It is safe to say that nearly every business in every industry has taken a hard hit due to COVID-19. And, guess who is no exception to this statement? That’s right – the private jet charter industry. When the virus invaded our lives, people panicked. Locked tightly – and safely – inside our homes, the thought of actually traveling never came up.

But, we can only stay stuck inside for so long. Eventually, we begin to crave normalcy. As a result of the lack of business, the cost of private travel plummeted. The virus made the newly affordable travel option even more affordable.

Conclusion

What are your travel plans for the rest of 2020? Getting the itch to get out and explore? If you want to maintain safety for yourself and your loved ones, consider joining the trend and choose private jet travel for all your traveling needs.

Read More:

10 Travel Safety Tips for Your Upcoming Trip
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Industry & News

Why Becoming a Corporate Pilot is Invaluable

What is a corporate pilot and why has it become a top career choice? Read about what the job entails and the little known benefits that come with it.

In life, we are faced with decisions every day. These choices we have to make can either bring good to our lives or they can leave us dealing with trivial times. No matter what decision you choose to make, however, there is no doubt that it will impact your life in some way. And, this is especially true when it comes to choosing a career path. Whether it’s for your first go-round or for a career change – making the decision to do something that proves to be invaluable can add to your life.

Of course, there are many career choices that offer some sort of value to life. But, if you want one that is going to help you soar above all the others (pun intended), then you may want to consider becoming a corporate pilot.

What a Corporate Pilot Does

Corporate pilots, as their name suggests, are those which fly for businesses, corporations, and private jet charters. For years, many assumed that those in this business were waiting to get a big break with the major airline carriers. In other words, corporate pilots were thought to be in a temporary spot until something bigger – and better – came along. However, can you guess what happened?

That’s right – times have changed and more people are seeking private travel. And, corporate pilots have come to the realization that this is exactly where all the benefits are to be found. Sure, you may not fly hundreds of people at one time, but you will have a lot more perks than those in the commercial airline industry.

How You Become a Corporate Pilot

Becoming a corporate pilot is like becoming a member of a secret club. Although, it’s really not that secret. Here’s the thing – not everyone can just walk right in and find their way into flying someone’s investment. It doesn’t really work that way. Instead, you want to network your way in the door. Know someone who knows someone, so-to-speak. Be present, get your name out there, and rub elbows with the top execs any time you can. Getting a job within your local FBO first is a great way to get yourself known.

And, then, of course, you will have to go through your training. Anyone can do the basic – so go above and beyond. In the corporate world, knowing a pilot is one thing. But, knowing a pilot who is highly skilled with greater experience than most? That’s invaluable to them.

You Will Gain a New Set of Knowledge

When you become a pilot, you gain a new set of knowledge. You will learn how to fly, yes. But, flying is so much more involved than just that. You will learn about things you didn’t even realize was that necessary. For instance, becoming a pilot requires you to develop planning skills. As a pilot, you would have to learn how to make decisions quickly and solve life or death problems. Pilots also have to understand the weather as a meteorologist would.

There is a certain way in which pilots move. They understand the need for patience, but they also understand the need for urgency. Most of all, pilots know that they must move in a calculated manner in which lives are protected at all times. And, yes, this means doing a lot of quick mathematical calculations.

As you advance through your training, you will become better and better at these new skills.

Meet – and Network – with Important People

Take a moment to consider all of the individuals you would assume travel via a private jet. Sure, celebrities and politicians. But, it doesn’t stop there, does it? You also have top corporate executives from around the world, religious leaders, musicians, and all sorts of important people that – with time – can become part of your network.

Some of these individuals may get to know you and request you, ask you to be an exclusive pilot, or introduce you to others that can take you places you never imagined. And, it all starts with the decision to become a corporate pilot.

You Can Fly Anytime

While there are rules that must be followed for all pilots and airlines set forth by organizations such as the FAA, those who are pilots for private jets have much more say in where they travel and when. For example, commercial pilots often travel from one place and back again. Over and over – and over. Most of these pilots learn the route like the back of their hand. They have to leave at a certain time, arrive at a certain time, etc.

Corporate pilots may fly frequently to one location, but there is a greater chance of variety in travel plans. In addition, there is often more flexibility in travel times. The monotony found with commercial pilots is not seen with corporate pilots.

Fly Some of the World’s Most Luxurious Jets

So, flying commercial airlines may be bigger, but that doesn’t necessarily make them better, right? Corporate pilots have a chance to fly some of the most elite jets in the world. And, some of these are so incredibly luxurious and top of the line, that they are out of this world.

This is an opportunity that doesn’t surface for commercial pilots.

Avoid the Hassle of Major Airports

Here’s where the convenience factor comes in. Maneuvering the way through major commercial airports are often a headache for so many travelers. It’s one of those things you just do because you have to if you want to get from point A to point B. Commercial pilots, though, have to show up to these busy airports every day.

Corporate pilots? They can avoid these airports and find themselves enjoying the luxuries that come from an FBO.

Conclusion

Like you read at the beginning of this article – you have a choice in life. Now that you know of all the benefits you will encounter if you decide that a corporate pilot is something you want to do, there is no better time than right now to turn that dream into a reality.

Categories
Industry & News

The Importance of Emergency Flights During a Pandemic

Throughout this pandemic, we’ve had to adapt to our new way of living. But essential travel is still very much needed in order to deliver essential supplies and more. Read below about the importance of emergency flights.

We have learned a lot in 2020 thus far, haven’t we? Just last year, we would have never imagined the world to look like it does right now. The mere idea businesses shutting down, travel coming to a screeching halt, and unemployment rates reaching record highs was just something we’d imagine seeing on a movie screen.

But, it’s real life. And, it caught nearly all of us by surprise.

When the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, started becoming more and more prevalent in our country – and around the world – guidelines, requirements, laws, and so forth were put into place to slow down the spread of the virus. Or, as we have come to refer to it, flatten the curve. These new restrictions had a huge impact on the travel industry.

Here’s the thing – shutting down the travel industry has an impact of its own. As a country, for one important reason or another, we rely on the ability to use air travel to reach one coast to the next in a matter a few hours. When we can’t, people suffer.

Let’s say COVID-19 was our warm-up round. What happens during the next pandemic we face? Would we still make the same rules? Would air travel come to a halt? If we have learned anything, it is the importance of emergency flights during a pandemic.

Dangers of Commercial Travel

Yes, enacting travel bans has an impact. For commercial flights, it makes sense. Loading an aircraft with hundreds of individuals just trying to get to their destination can cause a great increase in the number of cases. With an airborne illness, these close quarters can harbor the germs and spread them – quickly.

In short? Stepping onto a commercial flight during a global pandemic is taking a risk by putting yourself in a very dangerous situation.

But, what about private travel? This method removes the need for squeezing strangers together and allows individuals to travel without being exposed to exposing others to a potentially deadly virus, right? Private jet travel definitely fits within the CDC recommended social gatherings of 10 or less – even 5 or less!

By using private jets, emergency flights can happen. We can reap the benefits and keep exposure to the virus at a minimum.

Delivery of Supplies

During the COVID-19 pandemic, tractor-trailer drivers worked hard to do what they could to keep stores stocked with supplies and the like. But, with certain items – such as those needed urgently by hospitals – waiting for trucks to travel across the country is not necessarily possible. And it certainly isn’t convenient.

How many times has the media – and social media – relayed stories of doctors and nurses trying to treat those with the virus without having the proper equipment to do so?

Personal protection equipment, such as masks, face shields, protective clothing, goggles, and so forth are necessary to keep our healthcare workers safe. It allows them to stay healthy so that they may continue to fight the battle against coronavirus. When they don’t have these needed supplies, they are placed in a very vulnerable situation.

Allowing private jets the ability to perform emergency flights during a pandemic means that, while tractor-trailers keep grocery stores and retail chains stocked, the focus can be placed solely on getting much-needed supplies exactly where they need to be.

Functions of Essential Business

Hospitals are essential and we’ve discussed the importance of them having their equipment. But, what about all of the other businesses deemed essential? How about grocery stores, auto repair workers, private practice doctors’ offices, drug stores, and more? What are they able to do to protect themselves? How are they finding things like masks and plexiglass counter protection when nobody else can find them?

After all, one quick search online during the initial phases of the pandemic will prove to you that these supplies were nowhere to be found.

During a pandemic, it is crucial to get necessary protective items to essential businesses to keep the workers safe. Private jets can make emergency trips all over the world gathering the much-needed safety equipment so that the essential businesses can be open and ready to serve their community.

Medical Emergencies

A pandemic is going to bring medical emergencies. We saw this a lot with COVID-19. And also saw many overcrowded hospitals. We heard many news reports and governmental briefing concerns about ventilators – or the lack thereof.

Individuals coming down with the virus were finding breathing to be difficult. Going to the hospital often resulted in being placed on a ventilator in ICU as the body worked to heal itself. Unfortunately, though, without enough ventilators to go around, this became another big problem.

So, then, what do you do with ill patients in need of care and a hospital that can’t accommodate?

Emergency flights can transport individuals to an area with a hospital open and ready to handle new patients. This would reduce the chance of overcrowding and keep hospitals able to work in a healthy manner. And, of course, it would reduce the chance that someone would be left without a ventilator.

Reuniting Families

When pandemics strike, they don’t often give a warning. Nobody ever really believes that something is going to be as big or impactful as they are until it happens. Families can be all over the world when a pandemic strikes.

Consider COVID-19. When the President of the United States halted flights from Europe and specific areas to slow the spread, he also caused a travel nightmare for those citizens in foreign countries.

Private jets were able to come together quickly to get these individuals reunited with their families.

And, those with compromised immune systems who need to get home, but without the risk of a commercial airline – private jets can help.

Conclusion

As a country, we have learned a lot over the last few months. When we move forward with a plan for the next pandemic, halting travel doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Private jets can play a large role in fulfilling needs around the country and around the world.

Categories
Industry & News

Why Getting a Private Pilot License is Beneficial Right Now

Have you ever thought about getting a private pilot license? With the COVID-19 impact, now is the time it’s most beneficial. Read below for more details.

Do you love flying as a passenger? There is something so breathtaking about flying high above the world below. Seeing the sunrise and sunset, passing through thick white clouds – flying can carry you away. In fact, flying can get you from one place to another faster than any other type of transportation available. That is definitely a bonus.

If you enjoy flying so much, have you ever given any thought to actually being the one piloting the plane? Sure, it may have been a passing thought – some folks act upon it, others don’t. You should know, though, that there are many benefits to have a pilot’s license. This is especially true right now.

Why now? Well, in the world of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, there is a lot happening that differs from our normal way of life. Changes are occurring at every angle – from the way we do our grocery shopping and school to the way we travel and interact with strangers.

Private jets can play a big part in all of this. And, if you get your private pilot license, you may just be one of the heroes.

Commercial vs. Private

First of all, you may be wondering why we are referring to a private pilot license rather than a commercial pilot license, right? You are, of course, more than welcome to get any type of pilot license you prefer. But, during the time of our current situation, a private pilot license may provide you with more benefits.

Not only is a private pilot license faster to obtain (due to few flight hours and such being required), but it also means you can get the ball rolling on helping the world around you much, much faster. Besides, private jets:

  • Allow for much less contact with others.
  • Can access smaller airports and get closer to direct communities in need.
  • May still able to fly when commercial flights are grounded, depending on the situation.

Think about it this way – to get your commercial pilot license, you have to have a private pilot license first. So, even if that is your preferred choice, getting your private pilot license now can help out in the situation the world is presently in – and you can work towards your commercial license later. How does that sound for a plan?

Ok, let’s dig a bit deeper into the benefits of obtaining this private pilot license.

Germs: To Be, Or Not To Be

Germs are something we are all running from these days. In an attempt to spare ourselves from the power of COVID-19, the CDC, medical professionals, and the government have recommended that we practice social distancing ourselves from others. Places where people tend to congregate, such as restaurants, bars, amusement parks, parks, malls, and the like have been shut down in an effort to control the spread.

Do you know what else has taken a hit? Commercial airlines.

See, everyone knows that commercial planes are a great place to spread germs. After all, you have a couple of hundred people shoulder to shoulder in an enclosed space for an extended amount of time – how wouldn’t the germs spread? When it comes to the potentially deadly coronavirus, no one wants to take that chance.

More and more people are turning to private air travel in an effort to still meet their travel needs while reducing their risk of contracting the virus. By choosing to be a private pilot, you are opening up the ability for these individuals to get from Point A to Point B without having to fly on a commercial airline.

What’s more is that by helping those who want to fly keep flying, you are also helping the economy and the airline industry. And, that’s a huge benefit in itself.

Emergency Restrictions

Now, do you remember when COVID-19 first made its way into our world? When it did, the federal government shut down all commercial air travel to and from certain countries. States tried to halt travel from certain hot spots, too – even from other states within the United States!

Emergency restrictions handed down by the government aren’t meant to be overlooked. But, for those who are flying private, you have a lot more leeway when it comes to travel to certain places.

By being a private pilot, you will be able to assist those in need to continue their travel. The idea is to keep business moving, right? Therefore, top execs and their business dealings must still go on. New recruits must still attend corporate training. And, stranded families must still get home.

If flying commercial is too risky, private pilots can pick up the slack and keep people moving. You can be a part of this.

Assist in Relief Efforts

Relief efforts are intensifying throughout the world. Transporting medical supplies, food, and patients in need of care are incredibly important.

Private jets can have a hand in all of this. They can get items where they need to be and get individuals the help they need. If you choose to be a private pilot, you can be the one helping to make this happen.

The best part is that relief efforts won’t end when COVID-19 is under control. There are earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, and other natural disasters that occur everywhere in our world. And, the relief efforts are needed each and every time.

This means you.

The Steps Needed

Ready to get your private pilot license? According to the FAA, you must:

  • Be able to read, speak, write, and understand English.
  • Have a sport, student, or recreational pilot license.
  • Be at least 17 years old.
  • Have at least a third-class medical certificate.
  • Receive proper ground instruction, flight training, and logbook endorsements.
  • Pass aeronautical knowledge and practical tests.

Of course, to be sure you have everything you need, consult with the Federal Aviation Administration.

Conclusion

When the world around us changes, we can either fight against it or take steps to make it better. By choosing to obtain your private pilot license, you are opening yourself to a great opportunity with many benefits while also helping those in your community – and all around the world!

Categories
Industry & News

How Are Private Flight Routes Determined?

There are many aspects involved to make sure your flight gets from point A to point B efficiently and safely. How do private jet flight routes affect your flight?

When you think of catching a flight, you are likely more concerned about getting to your destination than you are about how you will get there.

After all, you aren’t flying the plane, so who cares which direction you go as long as you get there, right?

That’s what the pilot is for!

But, think about it – have you ever wondered why some flights will take you past your destination, with a 180-degree turn to go back to the airport you just flew over? Or why you fly a bit north when you are traveling south. Or, maybe why you fly in the direction that seems longer, rather than just taking the shortest route?

Believe it or not, there is a lot of work that goes into determining flight routes, for a reason. So, come with us as we discover how pilots determine private flight patterns.

 

The Simple Answer of Flight Routes

When it comes to creating a new flight plan, the pilot (or Captain) will put together a route. This is based on the most efficient flight method. More specifically, it’s a combination of:

  • The shortest flight time
  • The best weather
  • Non-restricted airspace

Once a general flight pattern is developed, it is given to air traffic control. These individuals will review and make changes, if necessary, so they can maintain a healthy flow of traffic in the sky.

 

Flying from One Spot to Another

Air traffic does not fly any way it wishes. You may think that because there are no physical roads or traffic lights in the air that it is all free reign for any and every one. But, that is simply not the case.

When it comes to air travel, geo-positioning coordinates is how flight routes are created. The coordinates are five letter combinations of Latin consonants and vowels that are put together so that they can be read and memorized. These points may either be random names or resemble a large city nearby.

When creating flight routes, the path will go from one of these points to the next.

But, how do they do this without colliding?

The system designed by air traffic controllers keeps planes flying at various altitudes – called flight levels – depending on direction.

  1. For instance, those flying westbound will use even-numbered flight levels – FL300, 320, and 340 for example.
  2. On the other hand, those flights heading eastbound will travel on odd-numbered flight levels, such as FL310, 330, and 350.

 

 

The Two Most Important Factors of Flight Routes

When determining flight routes, there is a lot to consider. However, there are two factors that tend to stand out above the rest. Perhaps it is because they are rather important factors. So, what are they?

Air traffic controllers work hard to monitor the traffic in the sky. They see what is coming and going through the airspace and work to keep things running smoothly and free from collision (thanks to pre-determined airways found in controlled airspace).

Since fuel is what is necessary to get from Point A to Point B, then it is only natural that you would be concerned about the amount available and the amount used for a flight.

If fuel is so important, what factors go into choosing a flight route – even-numbered where fuel is concerned?

 

Other Factors: The Winds

The wind is an incredibly important trait to keep in mind when creating flight routes. Just as with anything you do outdoors, the strength of the wind is a factor.

For instance, cross country runners know that they will have better times when running with the wind rather than against it. And, NFL quarterbacks and kickers know that moving a ball against the wind will require more force to get it where you want it to go.

All of this holds true for flying, also. When traveling long distances against the wind, you will find that the travel time required will be longer than if you are traveling the same distance with the wind. In addition, traveling against the wind requires more power – and more fuel.

 

Other Factors: The Weight

While it may not be as big of a factor with larger or commercial aircraft, the on-board weight can indirectly impact the efficiency of a private jet. Pilots consider the following:

  • The weight of the jet itself
  • The weight of the fuel
  • The weight of the passengers (if at full capacity or not)
  • The weight of the baggage or cargo

While the heavier weight will not affect the jets flying ability, it can make it run less efficient. In other words, the amount of fuel required to fly 2,000 nautical miles may only carry the jet 1,500 nautical miles if the weight load is at full capacity.

 

 

Other Factors: The Weather

Just as the winds and the weight can impact flight routes, so can weather. Pilots (or Captains) will fly around bad weather if needed to avoid turbulence and keep the utmost safety of the aircraft, crew, and passengers in mind. The weather is closely monitored so that changes in flight patterns can occur as needed – even when the flight is currently in progress.

Creating a flight pattern – or amending a flight pattern – around the weather means that you may fly further distances in an attempt to avoid the rough weather. Or, it could mean that you can stay on target, but you will need to fly at a higher or lower flight level (altitude).

 

Commonly Asked Questions

How Are General Flight Patterns Created?

The simple answer is that patterns are created for the shortest flight time, the best weather, and non-restricted airspace; but it’s more complicated than that.

How Do Planes Avoid Collision In-Air?

A system created by air traffic controllers keeps planes flying on different altitudes based on geo-positioning coordinates that consist of five letter combinations of Latin consonants and vowels.

What Factors Must Be Considered During Flight Routes?

Fuel calculation and compliance of air traffic control requirements are the most important. However, the wind patterns, the weight of the aircraft and on-board weight, and the weather must also be considered.

 

The Bottom Line

Our roadways on the ground are intricately designed to run smoothly. And, while accidents may happen, they are rarely the result of a roadway. Why? Because they are well-thought-out plans.

The same happens for flight routes. Just because you cannot see roadways in the sky doesn’t mean they don’t exist in their own way.

Flying on them – and taking all the special points into consideration – can ensure that you have a safe flight to your destination.

 

 

Read More:

What to Look for When Booking Private Jet Flights
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