Tag: air travel

Yosemite is one of the most beautiful locations in the world however it can be challenging getting there. Find flights to Yosemite that are most convenient to you and your needs. 

Do you have a bucket list? Are there things you would like to do and places you long to see? If these past two years – and a global pandemic – have taught us anything, it is that we need to seize the opportunity as it appears in front of us. We can’t just assume we will have time down the road because it can be gone in an instant.

So if you are ready to take the leap and get more out of life by crossing off your bucket list — then now is the time. And, if private flights to Yosemite are on that list, what better way to get there than to fly a private jet.

Visiting Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is located about a four-hour drive east of San Francisco.  Almost 1,200 square miles, this is one of the larger national parks in the U.S. and averages nearly 5 million visitors every single year. And, it’s no wonder due to the beauty you find all around you when you visit. Here you will find incredibly deep valleys, sky-high ancient sequoias, waterfalls, granite monoliths, and so much more.

Things to Do While There

Before you find flights to Yosemite, you must make a plan. There are so many things to see here – and the area is very vast. Unless you have a lot of time on your hands, there is a good chance you won’t be able to see it all. Therefore, planning ahead and knowing what to see and do can help you narrow things down a bit.

Below we have put together a few of the most incredible things you won’t want to miss on your visit to Yosemite National Park.

• Tunnel View is a pullout and a great photo op of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.
• Mist Trail is a hike that leads you up two waterfalls. It’s about 5.4 miles there and back.
• Yosemite Falls is a 1-mile loop hike or a longer 7.2 miler.
• Mariposa Grove where 500 gigantic sequoias are protected. There are different hiking trail options throughout the forest to spark your interest.
• Glacier Point has a lot of lookout points and both easy and challenging hiking trails. You will be able to see Half Dome, Vernal, and Nevada Falls.

Keep in mind that Yosemite Valley is the most commonly visited sport, and therefore you will find more accommodations like paved trails, dining spots, souvenir shops, and the like. Though, it may also require you to be patient due to the volume of visitors. It is still a very special place to visit and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Flights to Yosemite

There are many nearby airports to Yosemite. Well, when we say nearby you should know that we use that term loosely. There are airports, but they aren’t necessarily going to get you to Yosemite without a drive.

For instance, let’s take a look at the commercial airports nearest to Yosemite National Park and just how long of a drive you may face. Keep in mind that the drive time does not account for any California traffic delays.

Fresno/Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is a commonly used airport to access the park. Driving from one to the other takes about 1 hour, 30 minutes to Wawona, and 2 hours, 30 minutes to Yosemite Valley.

Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) in Mammoth Lakes, CA is about a one-hour drive to Tuolumne Meadows or 2 hours, 30 minutes to Yosemite Valley. Though keep in mind the latter requires driving Tioga Road that is not always open during the colder months.

Merced Airport (MCE) located in Merced, CA is about a two-hour drive to the park’s Yosemite Valley area.

Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK) is another option that offers access to Yosemite Valley with a 2 hour, 30-minute drive.

Other choices that involve an even longer drive – say 3 ½ to 4 hours – are available, but most travelers prefer the closer options. Just in case, though, these airports are Oakland International (OAK), Sacramento International (SMF), San Jose International (SJC), and San Francisco International (SFO). You can also reach the part through Las Vegas (LAS) and Reno (RNO), as well.

Important note: Tioga Road (which is what Highway 120 is called as it travels through the park) is not maintained during the winter months. Therefore, traveling from airports such as Mammoth Lakes, Las Vegas, and Reno airports are not viable options during the months of November to May. When the weather gets rough, or there is snowfall, this road will be shut down, and you will not be able to safely access the park from this area.

Why Fly Private to Yosemite?

You have your choice of airports to fly into when visiting Yosemite. But, here is something to think about – why not fly private on your adventure? We are talking about bucket list adventures, for one thing. It’s go big or stay home, right? Treat yourself. Do something nice with those you care about and are traveling with. You will get luxurious accommodations to and from the park – which means you will be ready to roll once you get there and can relax comfortably when you are done.

Two, there is a good chance that you may want to camp while there and, well, with baggage fees and restrictions on commercial airliners, you may be very limited on what you can and can’t bring. You can avoid this hassle when you fly private. Not only is the overall experience more enjoyable, but it can go a lot more smoothly.

Utilizing the smaller airport at Mammoth Yosemite Airport you can gain access to the park very quickly (in about an hour) without having to deal with all the commercial traffic both in and around the airport.

What Are You Waiting For?

There is no better time than the present to knock something off your bucket list – and it should be to consider flights to Yosemite. It is beautiful this time of year, and it is sure to bring you memories to last a lifetime. Make it special, enjoyable, and convenient by booking your trip via a private jet.

Anyone who has flown on a commercial airline before knows how stressful airports can be. Fly private and avoid the worst airports in the US.

The air travel experience has always had its ups and downs – especially when it comes to commercial air travel. If you know anyone who has traveled any length of time – or you have yourself – then there is a good chance you have heard the horror stories.

Delayed and canceled flights leave passengers stranded in airports. Lost luggage. Missed connections. Long lines at the security checkpoints. Angry passengers. And, before you even get inside some of the airports, there are bad traffic patterns, inconvenient – and overcrowded – parking, neverending construction, slow customs processes, poor terminal layouts, and so much more.

1. LaGuardia Airport, NYC

For anyone who has ever made their way to the LGA airport, the fact that it has landed in the top spot for the worst airports in the US should not come as a shock at all. This airport sees more delays and has more overcrowded security lines and terminals than others in the country. All these things wouldn’t be that terrible if the building had been kept up over the years. Though it has been going through an update process, that may offer a little relief to stranded passengers.

However, no matter how modern you make the interior, you can’t deny the fact that the terrible traffic and lack of public transit access can make anyone late to the flight – or miss it altogether.

2. Newark Liberty International Airport, NJ

The Newark (EWR) airport is another access point to the NYC area. Those trying to avoid LGA may think flying into EWR is a better choice. Wrong. This airport has one of the worst records in the country for flights arriving on time. They don’t. And that means there are a lot of passengers stranded, waiting around for their flight. And it is just not the place you want to be. It is not the cleanest, and their dining options are basic yet overpriced.

Getting to and from the airport takes a lot of extra time too. And it sure is expensive. Any Uber or Lyft ride into NYC is going to cost you big bucks. And if you decide to take public transit, you will have to take two trains. For those not familiar, this could end up being very confusing.

3. Los Angeles International Airport, CA

Los Angeles may be associated with movie stars, glitz, and glamour, but it is not because of its airport (LAX). The flights may not be delayed as much as the other two we have talked about, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its share of problems. After all, it is in the 3rd spot on the list of the worst airports in the US.

The problem with LAX is that it is not accessible. It is hard to get to the airport – and then it is hard to find your way around the airport. Around the airport. For those with connecting flights, it takes prayer, a lot of speed, and a great sense of direction to make it to your next gate for boarding before your plane leaves.

Traffic, congestion, and poor layout design impact the quality of one’s experience here. And although they have added some new shops and dining spots, as well as an automated trolley, they are not looking in the right direction to clean up the woes that come with an LAX experience.

4. O’Hare International Airport, Chicago, IL

Next to Atlanta’s airport, O’Hare has been deemed the busiest airport in the US. Many people pass through this airport in one way or another – nearly 40 million people, that is. Albeit, it is a slow passing. There are so many cancellations and delays – many of which are due to weather since the city is prone to some rough stuff. But that isn’t the only excuse.

O’Hare has been plagued with last-minute gate changes, incredibly overcrowded security lines, and check-in lines. It is not uncommon at all to see a hefty amount of tourists just stranded along the walkways in each terminal.

They say change is coming, but construction will take a long time. And who knows if it will even make a big difference at all.

5. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, Ohio

The airport in Cleveland (CLE) is old and frail. They have tried to fix it up over the years, but it did nothing more for it than give it a facelift. The overall functionality of the airport was not addressed. The terminals are small and outdated.

Accessibility to the airport is also a problem. Not only is the shuttle area at the Ground Transportation Center located an inconvenient distance from the airport, but it causes undue stress and delays for the passengers. Time needs to be allotted for this connection – or it leads to more significant problems. Those unfamiliar with the airport are usually the ones who are out of luck.

6. Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood International Airport, Florida

This airport in Fort Lauderdale (FLL) has gotten too big, too fast. This area is a hot spot for tourists, which keeps the airport busy. But what’s more is that many are utilizing this airport to avoid the bigger Miami airport. Unfortunately, what they find is neverending construction, heavy traffic issues, lack of parking – or lack of convenient parking, and minimal shopping and dining.

All airport terminals share the same drive-through loop, making it a miserable experience for drop-off and pick-up. And public transit is just not reliable, if even accessible.

So, while FLL may not have a heavy load of delayed flights, getting there is the biggest battle.

Just Another Reason to Fly Private

All of these situations that lead to the worst airports make us wonder – why would anyone want to fly commercial? There are many downfalls to flying on an airplane with hundreds of other passengers when you could fly private!

If you are ready to see what a real air travel experience is about, ditch these busy, miserable airports – and book a private jet charter to your destination.

Private jet empty seats are more common than you might think. Please scroll down to find out more about empty leg flights and when they are available near you.

What if we told you that many of the private jet charters you see flying in the sky are flying without passengers? And what if we told you that you could take advantage of that flight – and hop on board – for a fraction of the cost?

This is what happens when there are private jet empty seats, or more commonly known as an empty leg flight.

When someone charters a jet to a destination, there is a good chance they aren’t coming back right away. So, the chartered jet needs to make its way back to its home base – even if it means traveling empty. It is already heading in a particular direction, so if you’d like to head there, too, you could score a great deal on a private flight.

The truth is, there are a lot of advantages to these flights for travelers.

The Utilization of Private Jet Empty Seats

Making use of the thousands of empty seats available on private jets around the country at any given moment can benefit everyone involved. And as any good business person understands, maximizing the use of resources is the best way to succeed. So, whether you are a private jet charter company or a traveler, you can benefit from these empty seats.

As a traveler, you perhaps get the best value of all. You get all the perks of flying a private charter at a much lower cost.

Let’s take a look at what all you get when you take advantage of private jet empty seats.

Flexibility

The rigid flight times and schedules of commercial flights don’t suit everyone’s schedule. The great thing about traveling via a private jet is that it allows you to have some control over your travel times. True, you may not be able to choose precisely when you’d like your empty seat flight to leave – especially if they have other pending flights. But you do have some flexibility when you’d like to leave. And, who knows, maybe there are multiple empty seats in your area for you to have more options for travel.

Luxurious Accommodations

Whenever you get on board, you are sure to be elated with the luxurious accommodations. There is no need to worry about sitting next to anyone or making sure you get there early enough to try to get the best seat. They are all yours to choose from.

Not only does that mean you can travel in comfort, but you also get to do so privately. So, any business you need to take care of, you can do without interruption. Or, you can kick back and watch a movie – without having to share the screen!

Save Time

We talked about how private jet empty seats can help you remain flexible in your schedule, but what we haven’t discussed is just how much time can be saved when you fly a charter. Unlike commercial flights, you are not required to arrive a minimum of two hours before your flight. You also won’t find yourself standing in a TSA security line for hours, either. And sitting by the gate waiting to board? Nope, you won’t do that either.

Then, there is a little known fact that private jet charters only stop refueling. Otherwise, they head straight to the destination — without layovers!

With private travel, you usually pull up and get on board. Sometimes, you may have to walk through the FBO and maybe through a security checkpoint (without lines), but it all depends on the airport you are traveling from. Either way, you will save yourself a lot of time.

Best Idea for Groups

Get the idea out of your head that private jets only hold two or three passengers. In fact, many can carry 4, 7, 9, or more passengers. Rather than 7 people purchasing last-minute commercial air travel tickets, why not split the cost of a private jet charter? You are sure to come out fairly even in cost — with added value, too. So booking an empty seat charter is an obvious option.

Feel Like You’re On Top of the World

When you travel via private jet charter empty seats, you get nearly all the perks that someone would get if they were purchasing a regular private jet charter. There may be some personalized accommodations that aren’t available, but you still get the experience.

You can enjoy a meal, drinks, in-flight entertainment, comfortable surroundings, and so much more. You can walk up those steps to the jet and turn around and wave if you want to. And do the same thing when you get off. After all, this is an experience, right?

The best part is that you don’t have to view this as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Empty seat private charters are more affordable for anyone — and they can be used whether you are flying to New York City or Newfoundland.

Things to Know About Private Jet Empty Seats 

Before we go, we thought perhaps we should share with you a few things to know before you head off on a search for your next private jet charter flight at a discount.

• You will hear the terms empty seat and empty leg used interchangeably. They both mean the same thing — it is a chartered flight’s return trip that is traveling empty.
• They may or may not be available. While many private jet charter companies are trying to maximize the use of these jets, there is no guarantee that they will always be available. This is especially true if you are heading to or from a small, uncommon destination. It is definitely worth checking, though, because you never know.
• Empty seat flights are one-way flights. You will need to also book a flight back home. And, since you are going to be spoiled with the luxurious accommodations on a private jet, you may want to consider doing the same thing back. It’ll be hard to transition back to commercial travel.

More and more, private jet charters are becoming the go-to option for travelers around the world. Thanks to empty seat options, even more people have the opportunity to enjoy this wonderful means of travel.

Where will your empty seat flight take you?

If you have any questions regarding traveling tips or private jet charters, contact us here at The Early Air Way, based in Van Nuys. And don’t forget to explore our jet hedging program and empty leg specials!

Need some new vacation ideas? Travel around the world in style with 6 Summer trips to Europe in a private jet. 

Summer is slowly drawing to a close. And that means it is time to book those last-minute getaways and feel rejuvenated as you welcome fall and all it brings. Who says you can’t head off to Europe and explore?

We have six summer trips to Europe – and reasons why you should travel there via a private jet. Come on, let’s go!

Safety with COVID

You may be wondering why we are even talking about traveling when COVID-19 is becoming even more prevalent than it was initially, thanks to the Delta variant. And, you’re right – COVID-19 is still here, and it is very real. But as a world, we aren’t still where we were back in early 2020. Despite there being many people who are not vaccinated, many are. And they want to travel.

There are considerable warnings; however, that should be heeded.

As of July 26, 2021, some countries were part of the U.S. State Department’s Do Not Travel list. These include Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, and Britain due to their increasing number of coronavirus cases. Yet, the British government announced they are welcoming Americans who are fully vaccinated. No matter where you travel during these times, you should check before leaving the country.

The best way you can stay safe but still get out there and enjoy a trip to Europe is to:

• Double-check all travel advisories before your trip. Take note of any requirements for proof of vaccination or negative test results. Also, check whether any quarantine period is going to be necessary.
• Continue to follow the CDC recommendations for minimizing risk, such as wearing a mask, washing your hands, etc.
• Consider flying private so that you can greatly reduce your exposure to germs from large crowds in security lines, airports in general, and on crowded flights.

It is safe to plan your trip to Europe as long as you follow the necessary precautions.  And, if you choose a private jet to get you there.

Perks of Flying Private

There are many perks of flying private. There are, of course, luxurious accommodations, flexible schedules, and the ability to use FBOs and less busy airports. Then there is the fact that flying private gives you more accessible entertainment and the ability to stay connected on a long flight. And, did we say long flight? We did. That’s because flights to Europe can last a while — so why not be comfortable on a private jet while you travel?

Finally, back to the whole COVID-safety factor. Private jets keep you from being around massive amounts of strangers (and their germs) in several different ways. Plus, they are sanitized and ready for you when you get there – so you can feel safe and comfortable.

So, now that you know how to get there, you need to decide where you’re going. Here are 6 ideas for you.

Best Summer Trips to Europe for the Solo Travelers

Dubrovnik, Croatia. This country is a safe one for solo travelers with a lot to see and do. And, if you are a fan of Game of Thrones, well, there are many sights you may recognize throughout your journey here. While in Dubrovnik, be sure to walk the city walls of Old Town for some incredible views.

Glasgow, Scotland. If you are looking for a European city to explore with fun things to do while surrounded by great people – without sending you home broke, then this is it. Glasgow is an amiable city where the locals welcome you into their circles. You will find lots of pubs (it’s Scotland, after all), street vendors, artsy spaces, live music, eclectic shops, and so much more. Don’t miss out on the magnificent countryside, too.

Best Summer Trips to Europe for Adventure-Seekers

Brasov, Romania. If you are looking to get outside and enjoy the best of both summer and winter-type fun, then Brasov may be the place for your European getaway. You will find things to do like hiking, skydiving, and water parks. But you will also find snowboarding and skiing to be possible thanks to the Carpathian Mountains. On top of all the adventure, just strolling through the city, you will be in awe at the rich history, the architecture, and the markets.

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro. If you have been on a quest to find that one destination that would take your breath away, you may find it here in Durmitor National Park. And, since it is most popular among tourists in the winter, you will find it untouched in the summertime. You will find zip lining across a canyon, hiking, overnight adventures, mountain goats, and so much more. You will not be disappointed.

Best Summer Trips to Europe for Families

Amsterdam, Netherlands. If you are looking for someplace fun to take the whole family, you may not think that Amsterdam is the place, but it is. You will find so many things to do, from indulging your family in art museums and rich history to spending time at the beach. There is the zoo, delicious food, and so much more. It’s definitely a trip your whole family will remember for years to come.

Vienna, Austria. Vienna is a fantastic place for families. You will find good, wholesome surroundings and feel-good activities—things like bookstores, amusement park rides, and lots of music. In fact, Vienna has been dubbed the capital of music. There are so many interactive exhibits for some classical music greats that your ears will be dazzled, and your kids’ minds will be opened.

Be Safe, Travel Far – Onboard a Private Jet

Summer travel doesn’t have to stop because of the world around us. Instead, it would help if you made amendments to your plans. Whether traveling solo, looking for a great adventure or bringing the whole fam along, as long as you head out on a private jet, you can keep yourself safe without missing a thing in Europe this summer.

Europe is a huge continent. Where will your end-of-summer travels take you?

Here are our top six summer travel tips for 2021. People are getting out and about, so make sure that you know how to navigate the crowds.

Are you heading out for your summer travel? With life so chaotic and ever-changing, a vacation this summer is desirable– and deserved. Though too often, the idea of a delightful escape is overshadowed by the frustrations of travel. It can make the idea of getting away sound better than the real thing. 

Here is a bit of good news – choose private air travel for your summer adventure and enjoy the many advantages that come with it. And, well, with private air travel more affordable and accessible than ever, there is even more reason to give it a try. 

Let’s look at a few advantages of a private jet with these summer travel tips for 2021. 

Summer Travel Tips #1: Avoid the Frustrations of Airports

Airports – especially major airports – can breed frustration. With so many people together in one place, it is bound to get a little crazy. Add in the stress of travel in general, and the warm, fuzzy, welcoming factor doesn’t exist. Everyone has an itinerary, yet they all need to go through the motions required to get on their commercial flight. 

There are long lines in the parking lot and drop-off areas. There are check-in lines and to check baggage. There are long lines at security checkpoints. And then – once you think you are free – you have to wait for your flight at the gate. It is no wonder why they require you to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled flight.

When you choose to travel on a private jet, you get to avoid all these frustrations — including major airports entirely! Private jets depart from smaller FBOs that don’t come with all the foot traffic. There are no lengthy check-in points or places to check your baggage. And, you only need to arrive no longer than 20 minutes before your scheduled flight. After all, heading out on vacation should not start with aggravating situations. 

Bypass Long Security Lines and TSA Travel Restrictions

Have you ever stood in a security line at a major airport, watching the time on your watch tick away? Your flight time is getting closer and closer — and you can’t even see the front of the line. The thought of potentially missing your flight due to security checkpoint delays can quickly increase anxiety. 

Traveling via a private jet means no longer having to worry about TSA restrictions. You can often avoid airports entirely and pull up to your jet and board. However, keep in mind that some FBOs may require a simple security checkpoint depending on where you are traveling to/from, but it is not always the case. 

One thing you will never have to worry about again is how many ounces of liquid you have in a bottle. If you want to travel with your own beverages, 

a full-size bottle of perfume, or shampoo – go for it. There are no restrictions against it on private jets. 

Book Last Minute – Or Bring Last-Minute Guests

Booking a commercial flight usually means looking way in advance of your intended travel date. It can even entail searching different websites trying to find the best deal. Forget about booking last minute as you will typically find yourself facing hefty fees. 

With private travel, booking way in advance is not recommended. It is doable, but unless you have some complex travel plans, there is a diminishing return on the advanced booking. Your best decision would be to book no earlier than three months before you travel. It should be noted that booking next-day travel is widely accepted in private travel. And, same-day travel is often a possibility, too. 

Enjoy Trip Flexibility

Booking a commercial flight means you have travel times and dates that may also be set in stone. If you book a flight from Miami to Las Vegas and it has a 3-hour layover in Dallas-Fort Worth, you can’t very well ask the pilot to shorten that layover. Or if your flight leaves at 6:30 am, but you wanted to enjoy breakfast and a little shopping before heading home, your plane is not going to wait for you. 

That kind of flexibility just doesn’t come with commercial travel. But it does come with private travel. You get a lot of flexibility with private travel. For instance, you can choose when you want to depart and, if you are running a couple of minutes late, the jet is not going to take off without its only passenger. 

Layovers are nonexistent in the private travel world unless, of course, your trip requires refueling. This means you can get to and from your destination much faster – and without a lot of wasted time. 

Keep Yourself Safe From Germs

If we have learned anything over the last year and a half, germs we can’t see can halt the world in an instant. The world has opened back up, and we are free to travel, but COVID-19 is still here – and the Delta variant seems to be moving with rapid force. Avoid crowds all together with these summer travel tips regarding COVID-19.

Entering a busy airport or flying a commercial airline may not be as risky as it was last year, but the risks are there — great ones for those unvaccinated. Bumping knees and elbows with your seatmate does not fit the definition of social distancing. 

Keep yourself and those you care about safe by traveling privately. You are the only one on board, in addition to the crew. Cleanliness and sanitizing standards recommended by the CDC are met — and there is no mixing with strangers to increase your risk. This allows you to remain safe while still being able to travel. And that’s a priceless combination. 

Kickoff Your Vacation in Luxury with a Private Jet

When you finally decide to take a vacation, you need to enjoy it to the fullest. And that means from the moment you leave home for your flight. Private jets have so many advantages over commercial air travel that we couldn’t list them all here. 

So, wherever your summer plans take you, be sure to get there via a private jet, and follow our summer travel tips for 2021. Comfortable, luxurious accommodations and flexibility, free from germs and long lines – what more could you ask for?