Question 1

What is an empty leg?

Accepted Answer

When an Airjets Customer reserves a private aircraft for charter, there is a positioning flight during which the aircraft must fly empty to pick up its passengers. This part of the journey is known as an "empty leg." Along frequently traveled routes, such as from London to Nice, empty legs are quite common, and they present an opportunity to book a flight at a significantly reduced cost, often up to 70% less than the standard charter rate.

Question 2

How much does it cost to fly privately?

Accepted Answer

The cost of chartering a private jet varies based on factors such as the specific route, the number of passengers onboard, and the selected type of aircraft.

Question 3

How does the charter process work?

Accepted Answer

Airjets provides you with a dedicated personal aviation manager who streamlines the process for you. They will present a range of quotes, making expert recommendations to select the ideal aircraft for your itinerary, eliminating any guesswork. Each quote is accompanied by transparent pricing details, outlining the breakdown of your flight's costs, along with comprehensive information about the selected aircraft and airports, explaining why they are the best choices for you. If you decide to proceed, your personal aviation manager will handle all the necessary arrangements, booking the aircraft and sending you flight specifics, including directions to the private terminal. You can rely on Airjets as your primary contact for any inquiries or concerns leading up to your flight, and, when feasible, we'll personally meet you at the terminal to extend our best wishes for a pleasant and safe journey. Plus, with your initial quote, you gain 24/7 access to your personal aviation manager, ensuring you can reach out whenever you need, regardless of your location.

Question 4

Is ground transportation included in my charter cost?

Accepted Answer

While ground transportation from your residence or workplace to the private terminal is not part of the standard offering, our service does include transportation from the private terminal to your private jet. Should you desire a seamless door-to-door experience, Airjets can arrange a chauffeur to take you from your home or workplace to the private terminal. Upon arrival at your destination, our services extend to ensuring you are transported to your hotel, meetings, office, or the residence where you'll be staying. We aim to provide comprehensive, end-to-end travel solutions to cater to your every need.

Question 5

Where do I board my private jet?

Accepted Answer

Upon your arrival, you'll find yourself directly at the airport of your choosing. Private aviation offers the distinct advantage of utilizing airports dedicated exclusively to private aviation clients, free from the hustle of scheduled commercial flights. These airports often feature the most exquisite VIP lounges. The opulence and convenience of private boarding allow you to step onto the aircraft just minutes before it takes off, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Question 6

Are other people at the terminal?

Accepted Answer

Private aviation airports and terminals are not used by commercial travellers so touch points are considerably less and there are no wait times for security.

Question 7

Do I share my private jet with anyone else?

Accepted Answer

As a valued Airjets customer, you will exclusively occupy the aircraft, only sharing it with our highly skilled crew, including the captain, co-pilot, and, on mid-size and larger aircraft, a professional flight attendant.

Question 8

How many seats are on a private jet?

Accepted Answer

The number of available seats on our aircraft varies depending on the aircraft's size. Our Very Light Jets accommodate up to 4 passengers, while our Ultra Long Range Jets can seat as many as 15 travelers. If your group exceeds 15 passengers, we recommend considering our group charter packages. To explore the specific details of each aircraft in our charter fleet, you can utilize our aircraft comparison tool.

Question 9

Is it more cost effective to charter a jet if flying a large group?

Accepted Answer

The straightforward response is affirmative - private jet charter can often provide a more cost-effective solution. This is attributed to the fact that the overall expense may equal or even be less than purchasing individual tickets for each passenger when opting for commercial flights. This holds particularly true when considering the acquisition of first-class or business-class tickets.

Question 10

Where can I fly on a private jet?

Accepted Answer

As an esteemed client of Airjets, you gain the exclusive privilege of accessing a broader spectrum of locations, including smaller private airports, which often elude the reach of commercial aviation. This translates to your ability to land significantly closer to your ultimate destination, ensuring the utmost convenience. It's worth noting that if your arrival is scheduled for the early morning or late evening, our dedicated aviation personal managers will diligently guide you in selecting an airport with 24-hour operations. In addition, our intelligent flight search tool is at your disposal, offering tailored recommendations for airports based on key factors such as proximity, cost-efficiency, and luxurious amenities.

Question 11

Do private jets have wifi?

Accepted Answer

A multitude of aircraft in our fleet are equipped with in-flight WIFI, yet it's important to note that not all private jets may offer this feature as standard. If WIFI connectivity is a vital requirement for your journey, we recommend reaching out to your designated personal aviation manager, who will efficiently address your needs and help you select an aircraft that aligns with your preferences. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to delivering a seamless and personalized travel experience for you.

Question 12

Are small private jets safe?

Accepted Answer

Very light jet aircraft are crafted with the same rigorous standards as their larger counterparts. There's a common misconception about turboprop aircraft being outdated and less safe due to their propeller-driven mechanism, but it's essential to note that they are powered by jet engines that spin the propellers instead of fan blades. These aircraft are still actively manufactured alongside their traditional jet-powered counterparts. Interestingly, they often feature a more spacious cabin and come with a lower hourly rate. Additionally, their versatility allows them to access airports that might be inaccessible to larger jets, making them an excellent choice for reaching a diverse range of destinations.

Question 13

How far in advance to book?

Accepted Answer

As an Airjets customer we recommend you book as early as possible, Atlas recommends you book a month to 2 weeks in advance to get the best price for your flight and to ensure you have secured your preferred aircraft, this is especially the case in the ‘charter season’ which runs from April to September whereby aircraft availability is a real shortcoming. Airjets has flown customers with as little as 3 hours notice, as long as payment has cleared, the contract is signed and the aircraft is available we can get you flying. If we need to obtain permits bear in mind it will take longer than 24 hours.

Question 14

How do I choose what jet to charter?

Accepted Answer

Start by utilizing our intelligent flight search tool to gain insights into pricing and the charter aircraft available. After submitting your flight request through our search tool, your designated aviation personal manager will handpick the top three aircraft options, each falling into distinct categories.

First, we present "Airjets Recommends," which reflects our aviation experts' recommendation, combining excellent value, luxury, and the most suitable aircraft type. Our objective here is to eliminate any uncertainty and simplify the process for you.

The second choice revolves around a price-conscious approach, emphasizing the discovery of the most cost-effective option for your flight. Finally, the third option is centered on delivering the utmost luxurious experience, featuring the finest aircraft in the market, gourmet catering onboard, exclusive private terminals, and an all-around opulent journey in the realm of private aviation.

Question 15

Why is chartering a private jet better than commercial aviation?

Accepted Answer

With private jet charters, you regain control over your travel schedule, from the timing of your flight to choosing your fellow passengers. Relaxation is paramount, and you have the freedom to determine how you want to spend your flight, whether it involves working, conducting meetings, enjoying a meal, or even catching up on sleep, all without disturbances from other travelers. The cabins are designed for comfort, featuring virtually unlimited legroom, cushioned reclining chairs, and, in certain jets, full-size beds, ensuring you arrive at your destination genuinely refreshed. Furthermore, the almost non-existent boarding times mean you can typically arrive just 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure, minimizing unnecessary waiting.

Question 16

Is chartering a private jet the same as commercial aviation in terms of price?

Accepted Answer

Private aviation tends to be more expensive than flying business or first class. This is because when you book a private jet, you're essentially chartering the entire aircraft, whereas first-class or business-class tickets only secure you a single seat. Chartering a whole aircraft understandably comes with a higher cost compared to reserving just one seat. However, the cost per seat on a private jet can be lower for many routes, making the price difference more favorable when all seats on the private charter are occupied. This is particularly true for flights under 2 hours, where smaller to mid-sized aircraft are commonly chartered. If you're flying internationally, a larger aircraft with an extended range is necessary, leading to a more expensive charter.

Question 17

Can I fly with my pets on board?

Accepted Answer

Indeed, one of the great advantages of flying privately is the ability to bring your pet along. To do so, it's essential to ensure your pet is microchipped and up to date with the required vaccines and tapeworm injections, especially if you're traveling from the UK into the EU, which necessitates a Pet certificate. For vaccinations against rabies, it's important to note that pets must be a minimum of 12 weeks old before they can receive the vaccine, and you should wait for 21 days after the initial vaccination before embarking on your journey. If you're taking your dog to a tapeworm-free country, they should be treated for tapeworm 24-120 hours before landing. Additionally, it's advisable to visit your veterinarian to obtain an animal health certificate (AHC) for your pet, and this should be done no more than 10 days before your travel to the EU. Further details can be found here.

Question 18

How many private jets are there?

Accepted Answer

In 2021, it's estimated that there were more than 18,000 private jets globally available for charter. The United States accounted for over 13,000 of these, while Europe had approximately 3,400, and the remainder could be found in various other parts of the world.

Question 19

How much luggage can I take and can I access this during the flight?

Accepted Answer

The quantity of luggage you can bring depends on the category and size of the aircraft you choose for your flight. Nonetheless, there is an aircraft suitable for accommodating any amount of luggage you have. The smallest jets can typically accommodate around 4-5 large suitcases along with carry-on bags, while the largest jets have the capacity for up to 20 large suitcases and carry-on items. In some cases, individuals even charter an aircraft solely to transport their luggage, especially when they have an extensive amount to carry.

Question 20

What food do you get on a private jet?

Accepted Answer

Catering options on a private jet can vary widely, from a complimentary bar and snacks, including sandwiches for shorter flights on smaller jets, to exquisite 5-star gourmet meals crafted by Michelin-star chefs. Prior to your flight, a menu will be presented, and our boarding team will gather any dietary preferences or requirements you may have to ensure that we can fully cater to all your culinary needs.

Question 21

Can i take liquids on a private jet?

Accepted Answer

When flying on a private jet, you are not subject to the same liquid restrictions as in commercial travel. Unlike commercial flights, there is no limit of 150ml for liquids, so you are free to bring your own bottle of champagne or any other liquid of your choice.

Question 22

Do I need a passport?

Accepted Answer

Indeed, when it comes to international travel, having a passport is a necessity. Some European areas, such as the Schengen zone, also require you to possess a formal form of identification. As part of our process, we will request your passport upon confirmation to verify your identity and facilitate the necessary documentation for border control. It's important to note that while there are cases where passports might not be directly checked, you must have it with you at all times, as entry without it can be refused.

Question 23

Can I see my private jet before I fly?

Accepted Answer

Prior to your flight, you will have the opportunity to view both interior and exterior images, and occasionally, even videos of the aircraft you'll be flying on. While it's not a common practice, there are situations where a pre-flight visit can be arranged, provided that the aircraft is located in close proximity to your departure location.

Question 24

How safe is a private jet?

Accepted Answer

Aircraft represent some of the most meticulously engineered machines worldwide. Each system is designed with multiple layers of redundancy, and pilots undergo extensive training. Every private jet must undergo certification for flight before it even goes into production, and it is subsequently bound by the regulations of its operators. The private jet industry adheres to international safety standards that mandate proper rest periods for pilots, and every flight is conducted with a captain and a co-pilot. Additionally, these aircraft undergo regular maintenance and are subject to thorough inspections every 50 to 100 flight hours to identify and rectify any technical issues. It's worth noting that flying in an aircraft with only one engine operational is statistically safer than driving to the airport.

Question 25

Do private jet flights have customs?

Accepted Answer

When you're traveling on a large aircraft, typically weighing 10 tonnes or more, your luggage will undergo screening before your departure. Upon arriving at the terminal, your luggage will be screened and then loaded onto the aircraft, a process that usually occurs seamlessly without much notice. Your passport will be examined by a border control officer both during departure and upon arrival. To streamline the procedure, these checks are often conducted in the lounge or even on the aircraft itself.

Question 26

Are there any extra charges?

Accepted Answer

Airjets operates as a transparent broker. The price we provide in the confirmation contract is comprehensive and does not involve any concealed fees. We make it clear what is encompassed in the cost and what is not. Any additional extras, like chauffeur services or specific types of champagne, are agreed upon prior to contract signing. This ensures that you receive a comprehensive itemized breakdown of all associated costs upfront, rather than after the fact.

Question 27

Can I choose who flys with me?

Accepted Answer

Certainly, if you are the main charter client, you have the flexibility to select the individuals who accompany you. You can provide us with their passports and relevant credentials, and we will include them in the manifest. It's important to note that in the current circumstances with COVID-19, there may be restrictions in place for certain countries, so please be mindful of that.

Question 28

Is there anything I cannot take on a private jet?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to bring any items on board as long as they are legal and pose no safety risks. If an item is deemed hazardous or too large for the private jet, our dedicated cargo team is available to provide assistance. Feel free to reach out to our team, and we'll work together to find a suitable solution for your specific needs.

Question 29

Can I cancel my flight, and will I be charged?

Accepted Answer

Certainly, if you find yourself in a situation where your flight is no longer required, it is possible to cancel it. Each flight has its own cancellation cost, and the comprehensive terms and conditions can be found in your contract. At Atlas, we aim to handle cancellations fairly by assessing only the costs that have been incurred and by working closely with the aircraft operator to negotiate the most favorable outcome.

Question 30

Can I change my schedule or itinerary?

Accepted Answer

Indeed, if your schedule undergoes changes, and the initially requested date is no longer feasible for your travel, we have the flexibility to adjust the flight date and time to align with your new availability. It's important to note that providing us with more advance notice increases the likelihood of securing the desired changes, as it allows the operator more time to accommodate your revised dates.

Question 31

How long before the flight do I need to arrive?

Accepted Answer

In contrast to commercial travel, there's no need to arrive several hours in advance of your departure when flying privately. We suggest that you arrive approximately 15 to 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. However, if you wish to take advantage of the private jet lounge and observe the other aircraft, arriving a bit earlier is entirely at your discretion. It's your choice.

Question 32

If I’m late will i miss my flight?

Accepted Answer

No, when you fly privately, you adhere to your own schedule. If you find yourself running behind, simply notify the Airjets team, and we can coordinate with the captain to adjust your departure slot. It's important to note that at certain bustling airports, particularly during the summer, a missed slot might result in a delay due to high airport traffic. Nonetheless, rest assured that our captains will make every effort to expedite your departure as much as possible.

Question 33

What is the fuel cost?

Accepted Answer

The quantity of fuel utilized during each flight can fluctuate due to numerous elements, such as weather conditions, runway states, and the performance of the aircraft. The variable fuel rate is determined individually for each flight and is contingent on the aircraft's model and Airjets' fuel cost.

Question 34

What is the occupied hour fee? (OHF)

Accepted Answer

The OHF (Operating Hourly Fee) is a flexible cost per hour tied to flight operations. This fee encompasses direct operational expenditures, encompassing a share of fuel usage, maintenance, landing charges, cleaning, and catering.

Question 35

Is there a minimum flight charge?

Accepted Answer

In the private aviation sector, it's typical to have a one-hour minimum flight requirement. This means that, for flights lasting less than an hour, Owners may still incur charges for the entire hour. However, at NetJets, we don't impose additional fees for shorter flights. We utilize the largest private aviation fleet and our advanced operational system to ensure that Owners are billed solely for the actual duration of their flights.

Frequently asked questions