The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we travel and, over the past few months, we’ve seen a real shift in our private jet charter client base. While previously most of our flights were for clients who had flown by private jet before, we are now arranging many more flights for people choosing private aviation for the first time.
1) Consider what type of aircraft you need
Private jets come in many different types and sizes. The right aircraft for you will usually be a factor of your group size, budget, luggage requirements and route. But some clients have a preference for certain aircraft.
– Light & Midsize Jets seat 4 to 8 people such as the Cessna Citation Bravo, Embraer Phenom 300 or Citation XLS+. These smaller jets are fast and efficient, perfect for couples or small groups on flights of up to 2 – 3 hours. Most light jets will have a small private lavatory onboard.
– Super-Midsize & Large Cabin Jets such as the Challenger 350, Falcon 2000S or Legacy 650 are a great choice for larger groups of up to 13 people, and can fly further nonstop – up to around 5 – 6 hours.
– Ultra Long Range Jets & Private Airliners, such as the Falcon 8X or Bombardier Global family are suitable for long haul flights, and for larger groups or corporate travel. Large cabin jets can come with flat bed options for sleeping, larger bathrooms and multi-zone cabin configurations.
Want to find out more? Browse 'Aircraft Guide'
2) Get expert advice for choice, price & peace of mind
Private jets available for charter are run by a private jet operator, a company which either owns a fleet of aircraft outright, or manages the third party charter of an aircraft for its owner.
With hundreds of independent operators around the world, each operating a small fleet, it’s a fragmented market which can be difficult to navigate. So it helps to work with a charter broker like AK Private Jets. Our Jet Charter Advisors role is to help you filter and find the best aircraft, from what can feel like an overwhelming choice of options. That’s a position of great trust and responsibility – one that we take very seriously.
A good broker will only work with trusted operators who meet the highest levels of safety and service. And as part of Directional Aviation, one of the world’s largest private jet groups, AKPJ’s rigorous approach to safety goes well beyond minimum industry standards.
3) Here’s how private jet pricing works
With an on-demand private jet charter, you don’t pay per person or per seat – the price you pay is for the hire of the whole aircraft for that specific trip, regardless of how many people are onboard. You can book a one-way flight, a return, open jaw or a multi-leg itinerary.
Private jet operators will quote for your trip based on a number of factors including the hourly rate they charge for that specific aircraft (this covers the cost of their crew, fuel, aircraft maintenance and other overheads); any repositioning needed to put the aircraft into position at the start of the flight; airport landing fees; and any applicable taxes.
AK Private Jets have access to the major jet market platforms which invites accredited operators to quote rapidly for each trip, in a competitive marketplace. We’ll share a range of options with the client, with full details and photos of each aircraft. All of this can take place on email or WhatsApp or with support over the phone – whichever works best for the customer.
To give you an idea of pricing, private jet charter prices range from around €5,000 for a short 1-2 hour flight in a small jet, to €120,000 upwards for a return long haul flight such as Paris to New York.
4) What happens at the airport?
When you fly by private jet, you don’t use the main terminal at the airport. In fact, you don’t always use the same airports at all as airline flights, since private jets can also access smaller airfields and those that are dedicated to private aviation – such as Paris Le Bourget, or London Farnborough.
The private jet facilities at an airport are called a FBO (which stands for Fixed Base Operator – a legacy term). Using a FBO makes it easier and faster to board your private flight. You can park your car right outside, meet your captain and then move through to boarding your jet in a matter of minutes. You’ll still need to pass through security and immigration as appropriate, but it’s quiet, seamless and fast. So you avoid being exposed to crowds and queues.
The same happens at the arrival airport. After you land, you’ll move through the FBO and be on your way very quickly, AK Private Jets team can arrange car transfers with trusted suppliers at either end of your trip.
5) How it works onboard
Private jet travel is all about bespoke service, and you can make your trip your own – whether you are flying with family, pets or colleagues. The crew (always two pilots and sometimes a flight attendant on larger aircraft) are there to make your flight enjoyable and relaxing, as well as safe.
Catering, prepared by specialist premium suppliers, is included in the price, and options depend on the size of the aircraft. In most small and medium jets, options such as pastries, fruit, sushi, sandwiches or salads can be ordered in advance.
Larger aircraft allow more options, including bespoke orders and hot dishes prepared by a flight attendant. A range of hot and cold drinks are always available, including wines, champagnes and spirits, with specific items available in advance.
Entertainment options onboard include music and multimedia, with larger aircraft offering WiFi so you can stream your own entertainment or stay connected during the flight. Aircraft will always be stocked with a range of magazines and newspapers.
Beyond that, our Jet Charter Advisor team can help with additional items to make your flight extra-special, such as gifts, cakes or flowers; decorations for special occasions or corporate branding; and toys for children or pets (your animals can travel with you in the cabin).
*Interior Cabin onboard Falcon 2000S (Super Midsize Jet)
Have any additional questions for us? Our expert Jet Charter Advisors are available 24/7 for more information, advice or a quote. E: info@akpj.net