Optimizing Private Travel

In spite of the rocky global economy, travel needs don’t change. Those who depend on private aviation continue to rely upon this method of travel no matter what the cost. But there are ways to maximize the most out of every dollar spent on your trip so that even the budget-conscious can still take to the skies for their travel needs.
Keep reading this blog to learn how you can save thousands when planning your next trip.

To begin with, when searching for a charter, first know who you’re dealing with before making contact. If you’re new to the game, ask colleagues who they use or recommend. Going at this blind can result in a less than optimal charter experience.

Chances are you will be contacting either a broker or a charter operator. While there are good brokers out there and travelers benefit from using the right one in certain situations, be cautious. The Internet makes it possible for anyone with a few bucks and a cell phone to start up a pretty website with stock pictures of planes. These people want nothing more than to make money off of your travel needs and will not go the extra mile to ensure that the passengers’ requests are met.

Reputable brokers will work with customers so that their specific needs can be met, but finding a reputable broker can be difficult because charter customers often won’t know until after their trip is over that the broker did not come through with all that was promised. Overall, contacting a middle man, especially the wrong one, can add to your trip cost since they usually mark up flights by thousands of dollars.

For a more in-depth explanation between the two please read one of our previous blogs posts: Operators v Brokers.

The biggest mistake charter consumers make comes in aircraft selection. It’s commonplace for charter requests to come in for a specific aircraft, which may or may not be the right choice for the trip itself. Just because you like a specific plane, have used it on a previous trip, or have heard its name used in marketing material, that doesn’t make it the right fit for the next flight. Taking a second look here could save you a fortune.

Ask these questions to book a trip that fulfills both your wants and needs.

How many passengers will you have? This may seem like a basic question, but all too often private jets take off with a number of empty seats. There are some reasons to have empty seats, such as long-haul flights where fuel stops are not an option, or when a lot of cargo adds significantly to weight restrictions. Still, make sure to select an aircraft that fits your needs with as little waste as possible.

Are you willing to make a fuel stop? Large aircraft often fly cross country with lots of unused space simply because they can make the trip without a fuel stop, which is something many passengers request. Light or mid-sized aircraft are cost-effective solutions if you are willing to deal with a fuel stop. Read more about “The Not-So-Dreaded Fuel Stop” from an earlier blog post.

Is a jet the right option for you? That may seem like a silly question coming from “JetCharters.com” though prop power plays a huge role in the marketplace and rightfully so. Turbo props like the King Air and Pilatus are much more cost effective for short trips when compared to the comparable jet. Pistons can handle short trips with hourly rates that are beyond affordable when compared to both.

With a general idea of which aircraft fits your next trip, it’s time to compare options in your area. Simply enter your trip details here to review options. Check the box next to each aircraft of interest and soon find out which qualified provider has the best price.

If you have questions regarding anything in this blog or need help finding the right charter, contact us here or call 1-866-999-5387.