Aircraft charters have been around for quite a while. Selecting this method of travel means that you can use a certain plane for a certain trip without any type of long term commitment. There are thousands of different aircrafts to choose from, which includes all sizes of planes from a single engine turboprop to large, executive jets. The size and type of plane will be a significant factor in the cost of the travel.
Advantages Offered by Air Charters
If you only fly to destinations on a private plane a few times a year, then chartering is typically the most affordable option. You will pay for the journey you make, with the primary factors affecting the cost being the age and type of plane, as well as the distance being traveled. Unlike jet cards or fractionals, you don’t have to invest a large amount of money upfront and there is no continual, monthly feels that have to be paid.
With such a wide array of planes available to fly in, you can select the one that best suits your travel needs. Regardless of if it is a light jet to take five to ten people to a meeting hundreds of miles away, or a bigger jet to fly across the continent, you will easily find the perfect charter plane for your needs.
If you currently have a fractional or a jet card, then the jet charters can offer a useful supplement or be a great option for shorter trips. Fractional programs often impose a minimum flight time, which makes a shorter trip extremely costly.
Important Considerations
One of the main disadvantages of a jet charter, as with any type of private flight plan, is that it can become quite costly. If you plan to fly over 20 hours per year on a private plane, it is worth looking at alternative options, such as Fractional Ownership or Jet Cards.
Also, it is important to consider the aircraft demand will be higher at certain times of the year. During peak travel times, you will have to compete with prominent families and individuals who choose to charter and may be stuck with a sub-par charter option.
The safety, quality of the aircraft and standards of service vary quite a bit. This means you need to get a good feel for the company you plan to work with. One way to do this is by browsing the virtual catalog a company offers. Here you can browse the options offered, such as the Turboprop, light jet, mid jet, super-mid jet and heavy jet. The cost of the quote that is typically give includes the ramp fees, taxes, catering, fuel surcharges, fuel and landing fees, as well as any overnight expenses for the crew, if applicable.
Remember, the cost of the chartering services can vary quite a bit based on the aircraft, actual geographical location, time of the year traveling, when you are booking the flight and the service provider. For example, a Turboprop may cost around $1,500 while the heavy jet costs $8,500. This is why it is essential to consider your needs to find the best option.
The Bottom Line
People who fly out of a particular airport often build a relationship with the selected charter company. They get a chance to know the planes available, as well as the crew and pilots. This helps them know what to expect with each trip. If you are new to the charter market, it is a good idea to do a bit of investigating prior to making a decision. This will allow you to find the right charter supplier for your needs.
