4 Things Every Businessman Needs to Know When Chartering a Private Jet in 2024

Words by Nhat Minh

Nov 01 2024

When deciding to use private jet services, choosing the right method can optimize costs and provide convenience. However, with options like on-demand jet charter, jet cards, fractional ownership, and shared services, many of us may feel confused without a clear understanding of each type.

In this article, let’s explore the forms of private jet rental and how to choose the right service with O2H2O.

1. Understanding the Definition and Methods of Renting a Private Jet

Renting a private jet, also known as “charter,” is the service of renting the entire aircraft instead of just purchasing a ticket on a commercial flight. Chartering provides a highly personalized experience, allowing you to choose the departure time, destination, and onboard services. Private jets cater to various needs, from business trips and vacations to secret island getaways and personal flights.

Choosing the Right Private Jet Service – Where to Start?

When businesspeople begin to consider using private jets, the first step should be to estimate the flight hours needed over the next 12 to 18 months. This will help determine whether to rent individual flights on demand or purchase a jet card/membership package.

a. On-Demand Charter

On-demand charter allows you to book individual flights, with each flight having a different price (dynamic pricing). Although jet cards also utilize this pricing model, they often come with additional benefits such as guaranteed service and availability of flights.

b. Jet Cards and Memberships

Jet cards and membership packages offer many benefits similar to owning a private jet outright or fractionally. Jet card programs are typically suitable if you plan to fly on a private jet for over 50 hours a year. These packages provide fixed one-way pricing and ensure flight availability, relieving you from concerns about fluctuating prices or empty legs.

c. Fractional Ownership and Leases

With fractional ownership, individuals can purchase a share of an aircraft and have the right to use a corresponding number of flight hours. For example, if someone buys a 1/4 share of a $20 million jet, they would pay $5 million, and at the end of the contract, they would receive the residual value of that share of the aircraft.

2. Different Types of Private Jets

Choosing a flight route opens up many suitable aircraft options for a specific trip, which can sometimes feel overwhelming without proper guidance from the private jet rental company. Here are some popular types of private jets:

Very Light Jets: Models such as the Citation Mustang, Phenom 100, and Honda Jet. Range: 2.5 hours. Capacity: 4 seats.
Light Jets: Suitable for short to medium flights. Capacity: 6-8 seats.
Midsize Jets: Ideal for longer flights with more passengers. Capacity: 8-10 seats.
Heavy Jets: Best for long-haul flights. Capacity: 10-18 seats.

Ultimately, choosing the right private jet is a balance between comfort, features, and cost. This decision will shape your entire travel experience, transforming it from a mere trip into a bespoke experience tailored to personal and professional preferences. By considering these factors and working closely with a reputable charter company like O2H2O, you can ensure that you select the right type of aircraft for your needs, providing a pleasant and comfortable journey.

3. The Process and Budget for Booking a Private Jet

The Process of Booking a Private Jet

The process of booking a private jet charter is quite straightforward but requires attention to detail, consisting of the following steps:

Contact the provider and provide information about your trip.
Receive a quote based on your needs.
Confirm the booking and make payment.
Receive the itinerary and flight details.

Personalizing Your Flight

One of the biggest advantages of flying on a private jet is the ability to personalize the flight. Businesspeople can choose their favorite meals, select in-flight entertainment options, and even customize the cabin layout to suit their needs. This level of personalization transforms the flight into a unique experience tailored to each individual’s preferences.

Considering Costs and Budget Planning

When planning a private jet charter, it is important to understand the factors that affect costs. Key factors include the type of aircraft, flight distance, and duration of stay. Additionally, you should consider whether you need a one-way or round-trip flight, as round trips can be more cost-effective by avoiding repositioning fees.

Other potential hidden costs to be aware of include airport and transfer fees, de-icing fees when flying through cold regions, and in-flight catering that exceeds basic standards. If the charterer opts for international flights, overflight permits and customs services can also increase costs.

4. Tips for Budget Planning

To optimize your budget, focus on what is most important to you personally. For example, the family of the charterer may prioritize a spacious cabin with standing height or specific luggage requirements. Communicate your budget and family preferences to the charter management company for advice on the best options.

Here are some cost-saving strategies when booking a private jet charter:

Book in Advance: Pre-ordering can help businesspeople secure better rates.
Be Flexible with Your Schedule: Flexibility can help take advantage of empty leg flights. These are one-way flights without passengers, often occurring when the aircraft needs to reposition for a pickup or return to base. To avoid flying empty, operators often offer significant discounts on these flights, allowing charterers to experience premium service at a much lower cost.
Choose Smaller Airports: Flying into less crowded airports can help reduce landing and handling fees.
Share Your Flight: If possible, consider sharing the flight with others to lower costs.

5. What Business Travelers Should Prepare Before Scheduling a Private Flight

Below is a checklist of information to prepare, based on requirements from the National Business Aviation Association:

What are the departure and destination points?

In addition to identifying the departure and destination points, we should carefully consider the specific addresses of the departure and destination locations. Private aviation can access more airports than traditional commercial airlines. Charter providers like O2H2O can suggest closer airports, significantly saving travel time. Choosing smaller, less busy airports can minimize waiting times and enhance the flying experience. When booking on-demand flights, we will need to confirm airport details at the time of booking. With jet card programs or fractional ownership, we can flexibly change schedules as long as it is done before the booking deadline.

How many passengers are there?

Knowing the exact number of passengers, including both adults and children, is crucial. If any passengers are larger in size, it’s advisable to inform the charter provider in advance. The range of a private jet is affected not only by weather conditions but also by weight. Children over two years old will require their own seat, similar to commercial flights. Some aircraft are licensed to use lavatory seats for passengers—rest assured, these seats are protected and well-padded. This can be a useful option for using smaller planes for short flights. Be sure to inform the provider in advance if there are passengers with special needs.

Who is accompanying the charterer, and what luggage will be brought?

While private aviation doesn’t have the strict size regulations of commercial flights, there are still some limitations. These restrictions include whether the luggage can fit through the aircraft door or into the storage compartment. Some smaller planes have limited space, so it’s essential to pay attention to weight, which can affect flight range. Additionally, not all private jets accept pets, so be sure to check with the charter provider in advance.

To have the best private jet charter experience, contact O2H2O – a professional designer and consultant for super yachts and private jets with 20 years of experience.