Are you considering flying private? If yes, welcome to the world private air charter! More and more people are choosing to go private because of the various benefits it provides—convenience and luxury, security, and avoiding last-minute cancellations, just to name a few.
When you want to do something for the first time, you normally seek advice from those who have already done it. You want to have the best experience possible and avoid mistakes that others might make. Are you ready for some valuable tips? Below are some things you should bear in mind when considering flying by private plane.
Manage your expectations
You alone know what you want to see or experience on your first private trip. Maybe you have seen photos of individuals who have taken personal trips or heard stories, and you wish you had the same experience. While personal travel is becoming very competitive, the costs may not change much. This is because owning, maintaining, and staffing a flight crew is pricey. Make sure you can afford your private flight.
In the end, you get what you pay for. Flying private means comfort, luxury, safety and security. Better to pay a higher price for a safe and secure plane than try to save money by boarding an old and worn out plane.
Know when to get the best deals
Private planes move a lot compared to commercial planes. The operators want quite a lot of business and that means these planes will be in the air in no time. While prices fluctuate sometimes, the best way to get a lot is to book flights a week or two in advance.
Do your research
Private flights are normally one-way, which is great because you haven’t got to undergo the trouble of connecting between flights to get to your destination. As much as that’s a good thing, it also means that a pilot might get overwhelmed with long flights and need a second hand. That’s where the second pilot comes in handy. If you feel the need for an additional margin of safety (which you should), ensure you ask your airline if they will be extra pilots on board.
Speaking of safety, you should also find out the owner and operator of the aircraft you wish to take and the records. Also, find out if the pilots have required experience with the conditions at the airport you’ll.
There is a baggage limit too
Flying private is totally not a ticket to bring whatever you like on your flight, there are also baggage limitations. Charter companies have baggage limit, so ensure you know that when you book your flight. Make sure you weigh your baggage so that it does not exceed the required allowance otherwise you may must leave it behind. It is never safe for an airplane to take off when there’s too much weight on board; therefore it is critical to conform with baggage regulations.
Also, if you plan on traveling with your pet, check with the airline in advance and find out their policy on traveling with pets.
What documents should you bring with you?
You will need documents similar to those you would use if you were traveling on a commercial flight. The difference is that the process will be much smoother and faster. For international flights, you’ll need a passport, while your identity card (ID) or driver’s license will work for domestic flights.
Your flight provider can advise you of the documents you’ll need for your flight including if a visa is required. As for the process of obtaining documents, you should check with the authorities in your country.
While flying private is costlier than taking a commercial flight, it’s a way to get the most for your money. You’ll get to your destination faster and enjoy the privacy you have at all times dreamed of.
