May 2021 - Vault Aviation

Most Common Private Jet Charter Questions

Whether it’s your first time flying on a private jet charter or you are a frequent flyer, you may have some questions about the differences between private and commercial flights.

Here are the most common questions our guests have about their private jet charter flights.

Do You Check Your Bags on a Private Flight?

Nope! Much better than commercial airlines, your luggage on a private flight will be scanned quickly and taken right to the plane, so there are no lines or waiting to check your bag. Private jet charter flights are made to save you time and stress every step of the way, which means much less waiting around.

The amount of luggage you can bring depends on the size of the aircraft and the number of passengers, but we’ll get to that next.

How Much Can You Bring on a Private Flight?

The rule of thumb is one bag per person/seat on the aircraft. Light Jets can hold approximately 5 to 6 people, so that means 5 to 6 pieces of luggage. Mid Size Jets can accommodate 7 or 8 people and pieces of luggage. Super-Mid Size Jets can hold about 9 pieces of luggage. And Heavy Jets can hold approximately 11 to 15 pieces of luggage depending on the size of the jet.

If it’s only you and maybe one other on a Mid Size Jet, that means you can bring a lot! But check with the other people in your party to see what they are bringing to be sure there is enough space and that you don’t exceed the weight limit for the plane. Also, make sure to pack in soft sided bags (not heavy hard plastic suitcases!) because they are easier to fit and arrange in the cargo area.

Can You Bring Anything on a Private Jet?

With a private jet charter, you don’t have to follow many of the rules that commercial airlines have in place, such as not bringing liquids on board. You’re welcome to bring your shampoo, conditioner, lotions, cologne, perfume, water bottles, medications, even your favorite beverages. While all of the private planes that we charter provide drinks and snacks, we’re always happy to arrange any additional catering that you’d like.

Lastly, remember laws still exist, and any people or bags can be searched. So don’t get too crazy with what you bring on board!

Do You Need a Passport on a Private Jet?

Well, yes.

All international flights have the same immigration process, and therefore a passport is still needed. The only difference is that on a private jet flight, these checks are much faster and easier than commercial airline flights. Depending on the country you’re traveling to, there may also be additional forms that you need to fill out, but we’ll let you know before you travel.

Do You Tip on a Private Jet Charter?

This might be a surprise, but yes – you absolutely can! Though it is not expected, it is appreciated (as long as the company’s policy allows it).

Tipping private jet pilots can vary from a box of chocolates, a bottle of champagne, or cold hard cash. A safe bet for cash tips is around 5% of the charter price. So, if a one-way charter is $4,000 to $13,000, that means your tip could range from $200 to $650 if you decide to leave one.

Is it Cheaper to Rent or Buy a Private Jet?

While a private jet rental is more expensive than flying on a commercial flight, even first or business class, it is much cheaper than buying your own jet . By renting a private jet you don’t have to worry about maintenance and fuel, hangar rental, and staffing fees. You just get on and go!

Flights on private jet charters are charged by the hour, and prices greatly vary depending on the size of the plane, the length of the flight, and the number of passengers.

How Expensive is it to Charter a Private Jet?

Before taxes and fees, you can expect to pay per hour. The price could be anywhere between $1,500 and $4,000 per flying hour on a turboprop private jet, $4,000 to $8,000 for a mid-size up to a super-mid-size jet, and $8,500 to $13,000 (and up) per hour for the largest and most luxurious private jets.

But if you want you’re a specific price, then contact Vault Aviation so we can learn more about your trip! Fly Like a Champion with Vault Jet and join the family!

6 Things to Know Before Your Private Jet Flight

The world of private jet travel might be common for some, but everyone had a ‘first flight’ at some point, which means everyone had to learn etiquette and norms at some point. But we decided to make it easy for any first or new private jet flyers by compiling 6 things to know before you charter a private jet!

From private jet charter etiquette to common concerns and questions – Vault Aviation has got you covered!

1. Yes, Private Jet Charters Are As Safe As ‘Normal’ Air Travel

No need to worry, private jet charters are just as safe (if not safer) than commercial air travel. This is because of the many ways private jet charters are vetted and checked before flights, as well as having their crew and pilots checked and approved.

Plus, you know who and what is on the plane with you – a much smaller group of individuals you know – which adds security, privacy, and enjoyment.

2. Let the Host Set the Tone

Did you charter this flight or did your business, boss, or friend? It is common etiquette that the person paying for the flight, or who coordinated it, gets their choice of seat and will set the tone of the flight. Is this a work trip or for leisure? Will it be music, drinks, and conversing, or reading, napping, and relaxation?

Additionally, if you are a guest on a private jet with extra amenities like a shower or bed, those are for the host unless offered to you.

3. Be Honest About Your Flight Experience

Don’t worry if your host or others in your group have more private jet experience than you do – that’s fine, just don’t swing too far the other direction and overdo it by getting too excited either. A nice, happy medium is always the best choice.

Just like most situations in life, be polite, be gracious, be grateful, and you’ll have no troubles.

4. Some Of The Rules Are More Flexible…Except the Ones Put In Place By the Host or the Captain

Though you still have to abide by the FAA rules and regulations, there is more flexibility when flying private. Of course, stay away from illegal activities, as those are still illegal in the air. But truly, one of the wonderful things about private air travel is that it is up to that flight to decide what is ok and what is not.

Standing, walking, the use of electronic devices or cell phones, pets, drinks, food, masks, and so on – you have a lot more freedom on a private jet charter than you do on commercial airlines.

5. Be Aware of Timing

If you are told to be somewhere at a certain time and you are a guest and not the host, then be sure to stick to that timeline. Usually, 30 minutes before departure time is a good ballpark to arrive.

However, if this is your private jet charter, and something comes up, just reach out to Vault Aviation and let us know – we can absolutely be flexible with you and make your timelines work!

6. Be Respectful of the Crew

Yes, the crew is there to serve you, but being respectful and keeping your manners shows a world of class. It is also common to bring a small gift for the host if you are a guest on the flight or leave a tip for the pilot or crew.

Though not required or expected, these don’t have to be large showings, but a nice bottle of wine for your host or a tip up to 5% for the Captain isn’t uncommon.

Book Your Next (Or First) Private Jet Charter Through Vault Aviation Today!

As your full-service private jet broker, Vault Aviation is able to find whatever you want, whenever you want, and do it all ourselves and in-house. And if you ever have any questions about the process, etiquette, or availability – we’re here to help!

Contact Vault Aviation and Fly Like a Champion today!

Why Are Businesses Choosing Private Jet Charters in 2021?

As states and cities open back up for in-person business, work, and meetings, as well as larger events like conferences, there have also been a large uptick in travel, both local and national. This is, of course, to be expected, as last year was the year of Zoom calls, remote learning, and very little travel – especially for business.

But what is in store for the second half of 2021? Much of the same? Many researchers think the opposite and that 2021 will see an increase in private flight alongside commercial.

Let’s see a few reasons why the Vault Aviation team thinks this research is spot on.

Why Will Businesses Choose Private Jet Charters in 2021?

1. Rollover Travel Budgets from Last Year

Most medium-to-large companies and corporations have a travel budget, whether this is for conferences or meetings across the state or country. These budgets may be for their C-Suite executives or employees who are presenting their work at a symposium.

However, these travel budgets went largely unused last year. This means many companies not only have to make up some of those travel hours due to contracts or keeping clients happy, but they also have the funds and travel budgets to double up their travel.

Other companies have mandatory training for new-hire management positions, but again, many of those were pushed back last year. This means that even managers who have been with the company for a year may find themselves flying out to a ‘new-hire training’ per their contract or the protocols of the company.

This makes private jet charters a big option for companies in the latter half of 2021, as it allows for greater flexibility and a better bottom line than partial or full ownership.

2. Employee Appreciation

Last year was difficult for every worker in America, but that didn’t mean work stopped. Many employees had to adapt, swivel, and put in extra hours, along with the difficulties inherent in a pandemic, in order to help their businesses or departments weather the storms of 2020.

And this did not go unnoticed.

Whether it is a ‘yearly trip’ that got postponed and is now doubled or a bonus for a hard year of work, many businesses want to give perks to their employees and management who stuck around and kept them afloat, even in times of uncertainty.

What is a better perk and a better way of saying ‘we appreciate you’ than upgrading a normal trip or travel to a private jet charter! Many companies set goals and incentives for sales or performance of branches, and a private jet charter with your whole team to an event, a vacation, or even a paid conference for continued education or awards is a great way to say ‘thank you.’

3. Safety & Ease

Finally, one of the largest reasons that businesses are choosing private jet charters over other air travel is for the safety and ease it allows.

All of the aircraft that Vault Aviation charters are required to be piloted by two highly experienced pilots: a Pilot-In-Command (PIC) and Second-In-Command (SIC). Additionally, Vault Aviation also references Wyvern Safety Ratings as an additional layer of safety.

Wyvern allows secondary audits to be performed on all operators, aircraft, and pilots that we use. This “PASS” report details everything from pilot hours to medical certifications, and the following information is included in every “PASS” report:

Verification that a charter operator holds a current Air Operating Certificate
Verification that the aircraft being chartered is listed on the air carrier’s Operations Specifications
Confirmation of current insurance for the aircraft
Confirmation that each crew member’s experience meets a specific safety standard
Confirmation that each crew member’s medical and license information is current
Confirmation that the operator has Civil Aviation Authority approval for international operations at chosen locations

Not only do our private jet charters have more stringent safety protocols than most commercial airliners, to begin with, but they are also far less crowded and, therefore, less likely to spread COVID among the passengers in the airport by waiting in lines or touching public spaces.

And as for ease of travel – there is a reason why almost anyone would rather travel on a private jet charter than a commercial airline, even in business or first class. You get to skip all the lines and wait, you have more space, and you get to share the space with those you know, not 200+ strangers.

Of course, private jet charters are luxurious and desired, but their flexibility, safety, and ease are quickly topping the list of private flight benefits for many business travelers.

Month: May 2021