How to choose your ideal private jet charter
A private jet charter is the ultimate way to travel. You get privacy, premium space, and flexibility with your travel schedule. Fortunately, you can do an air charter service instead of owning a private jet, which can cost a low of $2 million to a high of $100 million for the plane alone.
But how do you pick the right charter service for your lifestyle?
Choosing the aircraft
You might not be shopping for your own jet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t learn a thing or two about these machines. Every charter service will offer different types of aircraft. Each one is designed for specific passenger capacities, travel range and speed, and travel needs.
Very light jet (VLJ)
Very light jets can accommodate up to four to six passengers. This small type of aircraft is suitable for short-haul flights, with destinations that do not exceed a maximum of three hours of travel time.
VLJs also tend to have smaller luggage compartments, which means the small group of people you’re traveling with can’t bring too much luggage.
Some examples of VLJs are:
- Cessna Citation Mustang
- Embraer Phenom 100
- Eclipse 500
Light jet
Roughly similar to the VLJ in range, a light jet is small and can access shorter runways in smaller airports. It’s the ideal aircraft for remote destinations.
Although the light jet is small like the VLJ, it offers more passenger capacity as well as payload capacity.
Some examples of light jets are:
- Learjet 45
- Cessna Citation CJ4
- Embraer Phenom 300
Midsize and super-midsize jets
When you need to charter a flight to India from Dubai, the midsize jet would be a good option. The jet has a larger fuel tank, so it can do medium-haul flights at approximately five hours (on cruising speed).
Super midsize jets can accommodate up to 10 passengers. Much like the VLJ and the light jet, the midsize jet can access smaller airports, allowing you to avoid the congestion of a larger airport.
Some examples of midsize and super midsize jets are:
- Bombardier Challenger 300
- Gulfstream G150
- Learjet 60
- Dassault Falcon 2000
- Cessna Citation X
- Cessna Citation Sovereign
Heavy jet
For long journeys with more people in your traveling group, the heavy jet makes a good choice. Its immense wingspan and roomier cabin makes long-haul flights a luxuriously smooth experience.
With longer range and higher passenger capacity, heavy jets also feature more amenities.
Some examples of heavy jets are:
- Gulfstream G350
- Dassault Falcon 900
- Bombardier Challenger 605
- Cessna Citation Sovereign
Ultra long range jet
For an even longer flight, consider the ultra long range jet. You can fly nonstop for about 14 hours.
Its larger cabin can comfortably accommodate about 17 passengers, and feature compartments for lounging, sleeping, and working.
Some examples of ultra long range jets are:
- Dassault Falcon 7x
- Embraer Lineage 1000
- Gulfstream V
- Bombardier Global 6000
Executive airliner
This private jet is the largest of all private jets and probably the most luxurious. A good example is Air Force One. Depending on the model, the executive airliner can come in medium, long, and ultra long range.
Some examples of the executive airliner are:
- Airbus Corporate Jet ACJ 380
- Airbus Corporate Jet ACJ 319
- Boeing Business Jet BBJ
Once you’ve decided on which types of aircraft you’re more likely to use, find a charter service that has them in their fleet.
Check for credibility
It’s critical to choose the right charter service because it will determine your comfort and safety while traveling. You’ll want to look at the company’s resources, network, and expertise. Naturally, a look at its safety record is also crucial.
A good charter service will have decades of aviation experience, indicating expertise in charter requirements and solutions. Longevity in the business also implies an excellent reputation as a service-oriented company.
Scrutinize customer service
Whether you’re simply inquiring about a type of charter jet or a specific service, you’ll want to be heard and seen.
A charter service that walks you through its fleet, facilities, and processes considers just how much information you need to make a decision. They’re not simply explaining what you can expect as a client, but they’re also determining your travel requirements and customizing solutions. A detailed consultation ensures you’ll have a safe and enjoyable private charter experience.
Consider your budget
Finally, factor in your budget. Although a charter service can be a splurge, it does not have to be that big of a splurge. You can still experience the convenience and joy of traveling on a private jet without the big-ticket cost.
Ask about additional fees that come with your private charter, like fuel surcharges and catering fees. And consider the value the charter service provides. If one service is a bit more expensive than the other but its selection of aircraft and level of customer service are certainly better, the pricier service may provide greater value.
A private jet charter offers privacy, convenience, and comfort. When you travel a great deal, convenience and comfort become more valuable on every trip. A private jet charter offers you both, and it does so in style. Choose your charter service well, and enjoy the luxurious world of private jet travel.
