10 Tips for First-Time Private Jet Flyers

Have you decided to fly private for the first time? Maybe you’re not completely sure what you can expect. Not to worry, Fly Louie is here to help guide you.

To ensure your flight goes smoothly and is as enjoyable as possible, we’ve put together a list of tips for first-time flyers to help you be prepared and avoid common mistakes. 

1. Choose the Right Aircraft

First and foremost, the earlier you can book your private charter, the more options you will have regarding price and aircraft availability. We recommend booking your flights one to two months in advance to avoid supply constraints in the market.

When it comes to aircraft selection, aircraft vary by speeds, number of seats, ranges of distance, and luggage capacities. It is important to be informed about these differences to make sure you choose the correct aircraft for your party. The six main private aircraft options include turboprop, small/light jet, midsize jet, super-midsize jet, heavy jet, and ultra-long-range jet. A popular option is a light jet, which typically seats up to seven. It is ideal for a short strip with a small group of people. If you envision a trip during which you can stand up, move around, and socialize on the plane, or your destination is farther than three hours away, you may want to consider a midsize, super-mid, or heavy jet. 

2. Arrive with 20 Minutes to Spare

One of the perks of flying private is avoiding checking bags, going through security, and navigating the heavy crowds that cause long wait times commonly associated with the process of flying commercial. When flying private, the general rule is that you should arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure. This is all the time the crew will need to load your baggage and finalize that the aircraft is ready for take-off. If you arrive too early, there may not be ample accommodations to keep you comfortable until your flight leaves. In addition, although a perk of flying private is that the plane will not leave without you, you should not arrive late to be considerate to the pilot, flight crew, and other members of your party. If you are running late, it is important to let someone know who can relay your estimated time of arrival to the pilot and crew. In some cases, you may incur a wait fee.

3. Try to Avoid Overpacking

Not all planes can accommodate a large amount of cargo. It is typical of smaller jets only to allow two suitcases and one personal item per passenger. Make sure to check to see any weight or cargo limits your aircraft may have. It is smart to bring a carry-on with anything you will need during the actual flight because you may not be able to access your other luggage while in flight. Larger aircraft may provide access to the stored baggage while in the air; however, small and mid-sized jets will often keep larger baggage stowed away for the duration of the flight. 

4. Request Anything You Need Ahead of Time

One of the best perks of flying private is the appeal of a completely customizable experience. Make sure to take full advantage of this opportunity by submitting any special requests in advance to your broker or operator to ensure your private charter experience is everything you imagine. Different aircraft offer different amenities; however, many are open to catering requests, flexibility in food offering based on dietary restrictions, and specific alcoholic beverage requests. Don’t forget about ground transportation. You can also request services such as car rentals available to you right when you land. Many Fly Louie Alliance Operators work with our partner Go Rentals to arrange VIP car rentals for travelers.

5. Plan Ahead if Pets are Joining You

If you take your furry friends wherever you go, it is important to know that some aircraft might have rules and restrictions regarding pets. Most planes are very pet-friendly and do not even require animals to remain in their carriers or crates during flight. Before booking, make sure the aircraft you choose is accessible to both you and your four-legged companions. It is important to ask about an additional pet cleaning fee that may be applied post-flight as this may not be included in your original quote.

6. Know When it is Necessary to Tip the Flight Crew

In some cases, it is important to let your flight attendant know that you appreciate all of the hard work they put into making your private charter traveling experience foolproof and enjoyable. Tipping can vary greatly from $50-$300 a flight depending on many factors such as party size, plane size, and distance of the trip. Many smaller planes will not offer a flight attendant. In this case, the pilots are the flight crew and tipping the pilots is appreciated but not necessarily expected.

7. Don’t Forget Your ID

Although the security measures are much more relaxed when flying private, you will still need to present a valid driver's license or state-issued ID as a most basic level of identification before flying. Of course, if you are flying internationally, you will be required to show additional documentation, such as a valid passport.

8. Bring Your Electronics for Work or Entertainment Purposes

Flying via private charter offers opportunities for socialization, collaboration, and productivity that a commercial flight cannot. The unique “club style” seating layout of most private jets will allow you to work or socialize with fellow passengers. In addition, most aircraft also feature amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment. It is important to inquire about additional charges for these services. Some planes offer free WiFi while others charge by the hour.

9. Understand How the FBO Works

The FBO, or fixed-base operator, is essentially a private jet terminal. Private flights operate from these facilities, which are typically located at smaller, less congested airports. It is important that your broker or operator advises you what FBO you will be departing from and arriving at. It is also helpful to be familiar with the amenities offered at your designated FBO. In most cases, you will also have the option to relax in a well-appointed lounge. However, more often, you will drive right up to your aircraft and board when you arrive.

10. Know Your Point of Contact  

Although brokers and operators do everything in their power to ensure their passengers enjoy a foolproof travel experience, your travel plans may change at the last minute, complicating your journey. If you make unforeseen changes to your itinerary during your travel, it is important to remember that the pilot may not be able to assist you. Instead, contact your flight provider to offer you on-demand assistance for whatever you need.

Fly Louie makes booking your private charter a breeze with competitive prices and availability. Our charter team leverages the Fly Louie Alliance of 2,000+ aircraft to get you the most competitive price on your choice aircraft on your schedule. For more information, Click Here.