The Onboard Experience of Flying Private: A Detailed Guide

Flying private is an experience that many people dream of, but few truly understand. Movies and TV shows have painted a lavish picture of the private jet lifestyle, and while it may seem too good to be true, the reality is that private aviation offers a level of ease and luxury that is unparalleled in commercial air travel. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just curious about what it’s like to fly private, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect when you take to the skies on a private jet.

Advantages of Flying Private 

One of the main reasons that people choose to fly private is the flexibility that it offers. When you fly private, you can set your own schedule and choose the most convenient airport from which to fly. This eliminates the need to deal with long lines and endless waiting at gates and terminals. Additionally, you can truly relax and get comfortable on a private jet since you’re surrounded by the people you choose to bring on board. You can talk and work freely without worrying about invasion of privacy. Furthermore, without the distractions of other passengers, you can work in peace and may get more work done than you would on a commercial flight.

Benefits of Flying Private 

When it comes to amenities, private jets offer a level of comfort and luxury that is unmatched by commercial air travel. Private jets come equipped with a variety of features such as spacious seating, fully-equipped kitchens, and even bedrooms. Additionally, the interior of the aircraft can be customized to your liking, whether you prefer a more traditional, classic style or a modern, minimalist look. The crew and staff on a private jet are also dedicated to ensuring that your experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

How Private Flights Work 

Booking a private flight is a different process than booking a commercial flight. Private flights can be scheduled as early as months in advance, or as late as a few hours before departure. Unlike “empty leg” flights, which rely on predetermined routes, private flights can be customized to fit your schedule. Additionally, you will receive an email itinerary from the charter company which includes information about the flight crew and pilot and you don’t have to worry about a ticket. However, it’s worth noting that private flights need time to prepare, so it’s unlikely you can get a flight within minutes. Depending on where the aircraft is based, it may be at least an hour.

Are Private Jets Faster Than Commercial Jets?

The answer is yes, in some cases. Private jets have the ability to use smaller airports, fly at higher altitudes and have more flexibility in their route planning. These factors can lead to shorter overall travel times. Also, private jet passengers have more control over their flight experience, including the option to request direct or indirect routes.

Are Private Jets Safe?

When it comes to safety, private jets are on par with commercial airplanes. They are subject to the same Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines and regulations as commercial jets, which includes regular maintenance checkups, well-trained pilots and staff, and passenger safety instructions. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also has guidelines for private jet operators, known as fixed-base operators (FBOs), to ensure the safety of pilots, crew and aircraft mechanisms.

Does TSA Check Private Jets Passengers?

Flying privately also means that passengers typically already know each other and don’t have to worry about unknown individuals. However, private jet passengers still need to go through security, but the process is usually faster and more streamlined than at commercial airports.

Passengers are searched at the terminal shortly before boarding the aircraft. TSA regulations state that for charter jets carrying more than 61 passengers, passengers are required to pass through normal security. However, light private jets, which typically seat four to eight people, are exempt from these regulations.

What Can You Bring on Charter Jets?

When it comes to baggage on charter jets, passengers have more flexibility compared to commercial flights. Unlike commercial flights, charter jet flights do not have weight limitations for passengers’ luggage. However, the size of the aircraft may determine how much baggage can fit on board. As the baggage will be in the cabin with passengers, it should be able to fit without blocking passageways.

Other than that, there are no restrictions on what you can bring on a charter jet. The size limits for liquids also do not apply, so you can bring full-size bottles of cosmetics and shampoo, as well as sealed or unsealed bottles of alcohol or any other drinks you prefer. Pets are also welcome aboard a charter flight and can remain in the cabin with you instead of being locked in the cargo area. It’s important to note that you need to make sure your pet is up to date on vaccinations, and you are responsible for obtaining any necessary documentation.

For international flights, passengers need to make sure they have the appropriate documentation and meet the requirements of the arrival country. This can include getting a separate visa for your pet.

Can Private Jets Land Anywhere?

When it comes to private jet travel, one of the perks is the flexibility in choosing landing locations. Private charter jets have the privilege of landing at any airport in the country, however, it’s best to consult with your aviation broker to determine which airport is convenient and within your budget. However, when it comes to international flights, the options may be limited as charter jets must follow the rules and regulations of foreign countries and the charter company may need to obtain permission to land at an international airport.

Can You Use Electronics on a Private Jet?

Another advantage of private jet travel is the ability to use electronics during the flight. Passengers can bring laptops, tablets, and phones and be able to work in peace and comfort. Many private jets also offer Wi-Fi, but it’s important to note that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) requires all electronics to be in airplane mode while the aircraft is flying. This is especially necessary during takeoff and landing to ensure there is no interference with the aircraft’s navigation systems.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is a little more lenient and suggests that electronics can be used during the flight if the aircraft crew deems they will not interfere with navigation or communication systems. However, these regulations only apply to electronics that may interfere with communication systems, electronics like pacemakers, electric shavers, and portable recorders are exempt and can be used throughout the flight.

Do You Need a Passport or Visa on a Private Jet Flight?

When it comes to private jet travel, passport and visa requirements may vary depending on the destination. For domestic flights, a passport is usually not necessary, but for international flights, the immigration laws of the destination country still apply. If you’re traveling to a country that requires Americans to have a passport and visa, it’s important to ensure you bring those documents with you. This also applies to any children or pets who may be traveling with you. It’s best to double-check the immigration requirements of the destination country and have all the appropriate documentation ready before your flight.

Customs and immigration procedures are generally much quicker when traveling on a private charter jet, due to the reduced number of passengers and the special terminal where charter jets land. Passengers can have their passport checked and stamped in minutes.

Is Food Served on Private Flights?

When it comes to food, private flights offer more flexibility compared to commercial flights. Passengers can request almost any meal they want, and the food can be tailored to their preference. However, there are limitations to custom restaurant orders since the food needs to be packed in a way that it will stay fresh and be easy to reheat on the plane. Some private jets have microwaves on board, while others have reheating ovens, so the packaging needs to be compatible with both. In addition, some restaurants decline to cater to private jets because their food will need to be reheated and may lose some of its quality.

Other considerations for private jet food are ease of eating and aroma, with pungent foods and foods that are prone to dripping or spilling best avoided on an aircraft. Additionally, the cost of food on private jets include the cost of the food itself, as well as the logistics of getting it to you.

Even on private jets, seat belts and emergency protocol are required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Seat belts must be worn during takeoff, landing, and any other time the private jet crew deems it necessary. FAA regulations state that the aircraft cannot take off unless every passenger on board is briefed on how to properly lock and unlock their seat belt or seat harness.

Are you curious about the toilet amenities on private jets?

The availability of bathrooms on private jets can vary depending on the size of the aircraft. Some smaller jets may not have a bathroom at all, but this is not typically an issue as most private flights are under two hours long. For those jets that do have a bathroom, the amenities can range from basic to luxurious.

Some may have a simple toilet behind a curtain while others may have a fully enclosed bathroom with a toilet, sink, and vanity mirror. It’s important to note that the bathroom facilities on a private jet vary by model and it’s always a good idea to check with your charter company before your flight to understand the toilet options available on your specific aircraft.

Experience the Luxury of Charter Jet Flights with President Voyage Jet

With charter aircraft located throughout the nation, President Voyage Jets is prepared to charter your next trip. Our expert staff are available to answer all your questions about your next custom flight.

Get in touch with our concierge charter department by calling, or request a quote today.