Chartering a private aircraft is now more accessible and affordable than ever before. Several factors contribute to this increased ease and reduced cost.
One key reason to consider chartering a plane is the enhanced security and reduced hassle compared to commercial airline travel. With fewer airlines operating and fewer flights to smaller cities, private charters offer a convenient alternative. Moreover, commercial flights are often crowded, making private air travel an appealing option.
The aircraft leasing business is booming, making it simpler to find charter options. Additionally, the emergence of a new generation of small jets, sometimes referred to as “air taxis,” is transforming the industry. These jets, seating 4-6 passengers, can cost as little as $1 million.
These smaller jets are being mass-produced, driving down costs. Companies like London-based AVCEN are innovating in this space. AVCEN is developing the Jetpod, a unique, lightweight, Very Quiet Short Take-Off and Landing (VQSTOL), 6-seat, twin-jet aircraft. The Jetpod boasts a cruising speed of 350 mph and an incredibly short landing distance of 410 feet, thanks to its horizontal and vertical thrust management system. Requiring no runways, the Jetpod can take off from locations like private parking lots.
Aircraft charter companies typically offer four primary services: aircraft rental (and sometimes sales) for private use, aircraft maintenance, fuel provision, and comprehensive aircraft management.
Finding a reputable aircraft charter company is easiest online. Alternatively, an aircraft charter broker can act as your travel agent, managing flight arrangements, comparing prices, identifying the correct aircraft, locating a suitable charter company, ensuring insurance coverage, and securing necessary FAA flight certificates.
Aircraft charter auctions also exist online. These platforms allow you to submit your itinerary to a network of pre-approved jet operators, who then bid on your trip, driving down the price. Some companies offer fleet memberships, allowing you to purchase blocks of flight time in your preferred business jet category, providing the benefits of private jet travel without the commitment of ownership.
Another cost-saving option is to look for “empty leg” flights. When an aircraft is chartered for a one-way trip, it often needs to return to its origin airport empty. Charter operators offer these empty legs at significantly reduced rates.
Flying in a private jet has become a status symbol, with CEOs and lawmakers frequently valuing access to private air travel. This trend, coupled with the increasing availability of affordable air taxis, is fueling the rapid growth of the aircraft charter business.