Chartering a Private Jet

• Private Jets vs Commercial Airlines
• Empty Legs
• When do you need a private jet?
• Types Of Aircraft
• FAQs
• Get A Private Jet Quote

Private jets vs commercial airlines

Price

Whilst it’s true that flying private is generally more expensive than your typical commercial airline ticket, it is possible to find some amazing deals and in some cases, flying on a private jet can work out at the same price or even cheaper than flying on a commercial airline! Although it’s hard to believe, companies like PrivateFly are making this happen. Flying privately in a large group is recommended as this will slash the cost of the flight (per person), for example, you could fly from London to Cannes in a seven-seater private jet for around £170 per person – not bad at all!

Remember to also be on the look out for ’empty legs’ – in some cases you might be able to find up to 75% off, but bear in mind that destinations are limited.

Facilities

Private jets win this one hands down. When on a private jet, expect VIP treatment, that means some you can expect some of the best catering around, champagne (some larger jets even have their own mini-bars) and reclining seats offering unbeatable comfort. You can pretty much arrange anything to be catered for beforehand! Taking out a first class ticket on a commercial airline will allow you access to some more luxurious benefits, but often it lacks the levels of personalisation seen on private jets.

Flexibility

Flying privately gives you complete control of your flight times – no more rushing or worrying about missing your flight, if you’re running slightly late you can always notify your pilot and they will delay take off!

What are empty legs?

Empty legs (Also known as empty sectors) refers to the empty leg of a journey. These occur when a customer only books a one way journey, therefore the pilot has to fly back from the customer’s destination with an empty cabin to re-position itself. Empty legs are a fantastic way to charter private jets at discounted prices, in fact you can find empty leg flights advertised at 75% cheaper! They are negotiable and are very handy for last minute plans. However, empty legs are only one way, they are subject to change and routes are very limited.

In what situation might I need a private jet?

• A much needed, instantaneous flight, maybe you missed your scheduled flight.
• A business trip or impressing clients.
• Special occasions (Stag/Hen dos, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries etc).
• Transporting a large number of people from A to B with minimal hassle.

Types of aircraft that can be chartered

Small Propeller Aircraft

Small propeller aircraft offer what is probably the most efficient way to fly short to mid range distances.

Small Jet

An ideal choice for mid range trips or city hops.

Medium Jet

Medium jets are the most popular choice for private flyers. They also offer an ‘upgraded’ experience for short trips with larger cabins and more luxurious facilities.

Long range Jet

Hence the name, these jets are made for long distance trips and offer much larger cabins for more capacity.

Regional Airliner

Popular for corporate travel, these airliners can come very close to prices of commercial airlines on a cost per seat basis. They can seat between 15 and 150 people.

Large Airliner

Unknown to many, larger airliners can actually be entirely hired out for private use. Removing the hassle of transporting a large number of passengers through an airport terminal.

Type of aircraft	Range	Speed	Capacity
Small Propeller Aircraft	1,500 Miles	300kn (345 mph)	Up to 19 passengers
Small Jet	1,700 Miles	400kn (460 mph)	Up to 7 passengers
Medium Jet	1000 – 3000 Miles	500kn (575 mph)	Up to 9 passengers
Long Range Jet	5000 Miles +	500kn (575 mph)	Up to 58 passengers
Regional Airliner	2000 Miles	490kn (560 mph)	Up to 150 passengers
Larger Airliner	1000-9000 Miles	490kn (560 mph)	Up to 500 passengers

FAQs about private jets

• How far can private jets fly? – Distances vary for each type of jet, some long range jets can do just over 5000 miles, which is the equivalent of flying from from Heathrow to Las Vegas.
• Are private jets faster than commercial airlines? – Some medium and long range jets are marginally faster than commercial airlines, but small jets tend to be slightly slower.
• What private jet is best for me? – This depends on destination and group size. If you are only city hopping and have a small party, a small jet is probably most cost effective, but if you’re looking to travel in real style a mid range jet might be the one for you. If your destination is over 3000 miles away from the departing airport, then you’ll need to opt for a long range jet.
• Do I still need my passport when flying private? – It is recommended that you always travel with your passport, depending on your destination it may not be required, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry!
• Should I arrive at the airport 2 hours before my flight? – No, you can arrive 10-20 minutes before you want to be in the air! Pre-flight checks are much shorter and straightforward.
• What happens at the private jet airport/terminal? – The procedures are the same, you will still be required to go through security, but the process is much quicker and personal. If you’re flying in a group and somebody is behind schedule, most private jet terminals have an executive lounge, why not stop by for some champagne!
• How much luggage can I take on board? – This varies for each aircraft, smaller aircraft it is usually 1 per passenger seat plus cabin luggage. Larger aircraft have bigger baggage holds and can hold up to 20 large suitcases.

Let the CEO of PrivateFly, Adam Twidell, answer some more FAQs regarding flying on a private Jet: