Private aviation is one of the greatest and most decadent travel luxuries. While some of my clients fly private exclusively, most of my clients balance their air travel between private and commercial airlines. Whether you are a private aviation veteran, a total newbie, or fall somewhere in the middle, I have a few amazing tips to ensure you get the most out of your travel experience.
*While luggage capacity depends on the type of jet, most private jets have less cargo space than commercial planes. Pack as light as possible, especially when traveling as someone’s guest. You want to be prepared in case your host invites several heavy packers at the last minute!
*Confirm that your identification and passport are up-to-date. A good rule of thumb is to never travel within six months of your passport’s expiration date. It can take a few months to renew your passport, so prepare accordingly if you have upcoming plans to travel internationally.
*Once en route to the airport, update the crew with your arrival time to ensure a speedy departure. Your captain will liaise with Air Traffic Control, cutting back your time on the tarmac and expediting your travels.
*Try to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before departure time.
*Know your jet’s tail number for entrance to the airport.
*Once you get to the airport, you won’t have to go through traditional airport security, one of the beautiful perks of private air travel. However, you will have to bring a form of government-issued identification, like a passport if you’re traveling internationally.
*Treat private aviation like a concierge service. If you want it, ask for it. Feel free to request anything that will make the trip more enjoyable for you.
*Sit on the right side of the aircraft facing forward. The captain always sits on the left side of the flight deck so you’ll have a great view of the cockpit!
*Help yourself to anything on-board. It is your aircraft so you should feel at home. If it’s in a drawer, it’s there for you to enjoy!
*Unlike commercial flights, you can bring water and other liquids onboard. Sip your morning Starbucks at your leisure – no one will make you throw it away!
*After your flight, don’t be embarrassed to tip the crew. While tipping is not expected in the industry, it is quite normal and your pilots will greatly appreciate the gesture.
*Also, if you are booking a day trip, ask for the aircraft to remain on the ground between your flights. This will maximize your opportunity to leave early if your plans change, and this ensures that another flight won’t interfere with or delay your departure.
Happy flying!
