• Private Jet Charter
  • Home
  • Flight Search
  • About Jettly
  • Press
  • Contact Us
  • Write For Us

Jettly Private Jet Charter Blog

Redefining The Private Jet Charter Industry

Latest Blog Posts

10 Ways Private Charters Differ from Commercial Flights

September 2, 2020 By admin Leave a Comment

Private charters are experiencing a Golden Age of sorts.

There’s still a demand for business, family, essential, and even leisure travel. However, people still aren’t comfortable traveling on crowded commercial flights. With a new awareness of how germs and viruses spread, they may never be.

Plus, local restrictions still limit non-essential travel – especially for US passport holders on commercial flights.

Private jet charters offer a different alternative.

It’s no surprise that private flight bookings have skyrocketed by 75% compared to the same season last year.

Most of those bookings are from first-timers too.

Every aspect of the private charter experience is different than commercial flying: from quotes and booking to aircraft and airports. This puts newbies at risk for incorrect bookings and even scams.

How Private Charters Differ from Commercial Flights: What Newbies Need to Know

Overall, you’ll notice private flights offer a much safer option than commercial. However, you should keep several things in mind before booking your first private flight.

1. You Can Choose from Countless Smaller Airports for Private Charters

You’ll never have to fly out of that crowded city airport again. Private flights can depart from and arrive in over 5,000 airports across the country, compared to just over 500 for commercial flights. Is there a small city airport near your house? You can request to depart from that one.

2. There Aren’t Any Boarding Passes or Typical Screenings

When you book your flight, you’ll also book a specific aircraft. This will give you a tail number to track and enter your flight rather than a boarding pass.

Instead of a typical security screening, you just need to make sure everyone on your flight has a government ID and isn’t on a No Fly list.

3. You Need to Factor Your Passengers and Luggage Prior to Booking Private Charters

Unlike commercial flights, some private planes are small. Each aircraft has unique cargo weight and passenger restrictions. It’s best to factor your luggage, fellow travelers, children, and pets into your quote to make sure you pick the best aircraft.

If you plan to travel alone and book a small flight but later try to add a few family members, the aircraft might not work, and you’ll have to cancel the booking.

4. You’ll Choose Your Add-Ons Individually

Some private brokers might try to sneak extras into your booking like expensive catering. Others, however, require you to order everything à la carte.

If you want food service, drinks, or Wi-Fi, you’ll have to order these things as you book your flight individually. However, your operator will help you work out the details seamlessly.

5. You’ll Depart from Special Private Terminals

Private charters fly out of their own airport terminals. When you arrive, you might even drive straight up to the plane. Otherwise, you’ll have access to a special terminal with bathrooms and a comfortable lounge away from the crowds.

6. There Might Not Be Any Flight Attendants on Private Charters

Private jets can be small and, especially with COVID-19 best practices, might not have any flight attendants. Check with your operator before booking your flight if you require special accommodations or assistance. Otherwise, plan on having the whole plane to yourself!

7. Check the Aircraft Before Booking If You Need Wi-Fi

Not every aircraft is set up to deliver a Wi-Fi connection. If you’re planning a longer flight or require Wi-Fi to work, make sure you check the plane’s specifications before booking and double-check with the operator that it’s good to go.

8. Arrange Your Destination Ground Transportation Ahead of Time

Flying into a small airport has many advantages but it can pose an issue if you don’t plan your ground transportation in advance. Airports in more isolated areas at night could mean no Ubers are available when you arrive. Make sure to book your ride right after booking your flight or ask your operator for recommendations.

9. Not All Private Charters Operate Legally

Many people might not realize that unregulated and illegal charters are a pervasive problem. Some market themselves as “gray charters” but make no mistake: They aren’t FAA certified to carry passengers for compensation.

Always ask your operator for Part 135 certification paperwork. If they make up an excuse or say they’re certified but refuse to show you the paperwork, go somewhere else.

Booking illegal charters means you’re unintentionally flouting safety measures for plane maintenance and potentially putting yourself at risk for losing a lot of money.

10. Empty Leg Flights Can Save You Big Time Money

Pilots often get stuck flying empty planes back from one-way charters. You can keep an eye on Jettly’s empty leg flights and snag up these routes for up to 75% off the typical price.

Bear in mind, you won’t get to pick the aircraft or route, but you might get to pick the time.

Where Will You Travel Next?

Jettly makes it easy to book private charters – whether you’re a first-timer or booking your 100th flight. Our streamlined process lets you search routes instantly and request quotes under a free membership.

We’re committed to your safety by adhering to FAA Part 135 certification across our fleet and TICO registration for consumer protection. All you have to do is pick your flight and book.

Where will you go? Browse our empty leg flights to see if something catches your eye!

Bahamas Will Accept Private Jet Charters – But Not Commercial Flights

August 26, 2020 By admin Leave a Comment

As countries around the world ease their lockdown restrictions and open their borders cautiously, US passport holders find themselves left in the cold.

Some countries are taking a different route. The Bahamas initially imposed a full ban on US travelers. As the months went on, however, the island nation changed its tune.

It seems like private jet charters will play a critical role in keeping tourism economies and the travel industry afloat until the pandemic and related fears totally subside.

Bahamas to Allow Private Jet Charters – Will Other Countries Follow Suit?

In July, Bahamian Prime Minister Hubbert Minnis announced that all commercial flights and vessels except those from the United Kingdom, Canada, and European Union were banned from entering his country.

While Americans were still prohibited, PM Minnis explained that the Bahamas would make an exception for private jet charters. The Prime Minister also pointed out that should COVID-19 cases begin an upward trend, his country would be forced to re-evaluate the border strategy.

Until now, the Bahamas has managed to avoid a widespread COVID-19 outbreak, thankfully.

Demand for private flights has surged in the wake of the global pandemic: up to 75% from last year’s spring-summer season. Private charters offer a much safer alternative to commercial flights.

Turkey, Croatia, Maldives, Seychelles, and islands peppering the Caribbean are all open either for all US travelers or strictly those entering through private jet charters.

Some hotels have even started partnering with private jet brokers to streamline the booking process and give the travel industry a much-needed boost.

Private Jet Charters are Good for More Than Leisure Flights

President and CEO of the National Business Aviation Association, Ed Bolen, wrote a letter to the Chicago Sun Times highlighting the importance of private jet charters during this critical time.

Bole explained that private flights will play a significant role in business recovery among entrepreneurs and companies reaching markets where commercial flights are restricted.

Not only that, but private flights have linked important supplies and people at critical moments throughout the pandemic. Many medical personnel are relying on private travel to reach epicenters for crucial work. Supplies are shipped around the country and overseas on private jets as well.

Private flights have also helped with repatriation and medical flights for patients. Jettly, for example, offers a special program for medical charters.

How to Travel Safely with Private Jet Charters

It’s much easier to travel in safety with private jet charters. For example, charter flights can leave from and land in low-traffic airports and isolated terminals.

You interact with far fewer people by traveling private too. On the plane, it’s just you, your pilot, and whoever you plan to bring – no passengers.

You can circumvent crowded security screenings and passport control lines as well. Plus, no one will handle your luggage except you – unless you request help.

Finally, private jet charters typically run nonstop – even on long routes – so there’s no need to wade through crowded airport terminals between flights.

While private travel makes avoiding COVID-19 exposure easier, unregulated or illegal charters pose their own separate risks. It’s important to protect yourself.

Read the Fine Print, Membership Requirements, and Fees

Jet cards, fractional ownership, and other programs are designed to squeeze as much money from you as possible. Many of these companies charge outrageous fees for commission, taxes, landing, and even pilot accommodations.

Extras like Wi-Fi and food might be thrown into the bill after the fact – even if you didn’t ask for or use them.

Always read the fine print and make sure you know what you’re paying for. At Jettly, we never charge any hidden commissions or fees and you only pay for what you request.

Ask for Certifications and Registration

Legal private jet charters are all FAA Part 135 certified. This ensures they’ve gone through rigorous and ongoing screening for safety and aircraft maintenance.

Illegal charters will brush off requests for their Part 135 certs (because they don’t have them) – so always ask assertively.

Likewise, booking through an entity registered under the Travel Industry Council of Ontario ensures you’re protected financially in the event of a last-minute cancellation, bankruptcy, or other misfortune. Plus, TICO companies are banned from using maliciously confusing fine print.

Stay Updated on Local Regulations

National and state travel restrictions can change at a moment’s notice. Keep yourself updated on the details for your destination and stay in touch with your pilot post-booking your flight.

If Something Feels Off, Don’t Book It

If a deal sounds too good to be true, we all know how that typically works out. Illegal charters and scammers write confusing agreements and fine print with malicious intention.

If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification via email so it’s documented. If something feels “off” or doesn’t make sense to you, don’t book the flight.

Book Your Private Jet Charters with Confidence

Whether you’re a private flight newbie or industry veteran, Jettly offers exactly what you need from a charter. We never charge hidden fees or commission – what you see is what you pay, and you only pay a flat monthly rate. Jettly pilots are all certified through the FAA’s strict Part 135 and we’re registered with TICO for your protection.

Where will you travel next? Run a search for your ideal route and get your first quote for free!

How to Protect Yourself from Fraud and Illegal Private Charters

August 19, 2020 By admin Leave a Comment

COVID-19 restrictions and risks make commercial flying a challenge – but people still want or need to travel.

That’s why private jet charters are having their moment.

Unfortunately, the private charter industry wasn’t 100% safe and transparent prior to the pandemic. The surge in demand has amplified existing problems and skyrocketed fraud cases.

Many private charters are completely unregulated. It’s important to research any company and your rights before booking a flight. If you don’t, you’re at risk of losing all your money – or worse.

Private Charter Demand Surges – And So Does Fraud

Commercial airlines are still struggling to stay afloat – even with billions in government bailout cash. Demand for private charters, on the other hand, has surged by 75% compared to last year.

It’s easy to see why:

  • You interact with far fewer people while flying private.
  • No crowded terminals or contaminated security screenings.
  • Most flights are nonstop.

Sadly, shady companies are also capitalizing on new demand to prey on unsuspecting passengers. Some scammers developed high-quality websites and optimized their search keywords to rank at the top of Google search results. However, these websites offered private flights between Europe that didn’t even exist.

Once someone books the “flight” and signs the paperwork, malicious fine print prevents them from seeking legal action or recouping their losses.

The problem was so bad the European Business Aviation Association and Aviation Charter Association issued a joint statement warning of such scam sites.

There haven’t been any reports of blatant fraud like this in the United States (yet), but the private charter jet industry already faced huge issues with shady brokers and illegal charters. The pandemic’s demand for private travel simply amplified the existing problems.

That’s not to say, however, there aren’t any fraudulent US sites – just that none are reported yet.

What are Illegal Private Charters and Why are They So Dangerous?

Illegal private charters are more common than you’d think.

Anyone who receives compensation to transport passengers or cargo via an aircraft without specific certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is considered an illegal charter. You might also see illegal charters marketed as “gray charters” but there’s no gray area in flight legitimacy.

Illegal private charters put you at risk for tons of huge problems.

First, you’ll be boarding an aircraft flown by a pilot without certification from the FAA. That’s an extremely dangerous situation to find yourself in. FAA regulations and certifications ensure the plane is properly maintained and the pilot is up to date on safety measures.

Illegal private charters also prevent you from seeking financial compensation or refunds in cases of cancellation, bankruptcy, or negligence.

How Can You Protect Yourself from Illegal Private Charters?

If you’re new to private air travel, be on the lookout for any deals that seem too good to be true – they probably are.

It’s important to do plenty of research before booking any flight so you can protect yourself from illegal private charters and scammers.

Ask for Part 135 Certification Paperwork

Part 135 certification ensures that the FAA has verified the pilot and aircraft to operate for compensation. FAA screenings are rigorous, complex, and ongoing. A pilot can lose their Part 135 certification if they fall short on any future inspection too.

A pilot might be licensed but if they aren’t Part 135 certified, they’re still considered an illegal charter.

Ask for Part 135 certification paperwork before booking your private flight. If the broker or website tries to dodge the question, go somewhere else. If they say they have Part 135 certification, ask to see the paperwork. If they can’t present it, that’s your cue to leave.

Any Part 135-certified pilot will be more than happy to show you their paperwork before booking your flight.

Look for TICO Registration

Private charters are largely unregulated in the US and this puts consumers at huge risk. Illegal private charters will tack on hidden fees for things like:

  • Wi-Fi
  • Landing
  • Catering
  • Pilot and crew accommodation
  • Booking commission

When a charter company isn’t held accountable to any agency, they’ll take you for every dollar they can get.

Unregulated charters often rely on malicious fine print. Bankruptcies or last-minute cancellations give them the opportunity to back away with your money scot-free.

Book your flights with companies registered through TICO: The Travel Industry Council of Ontario. TICO is a not-for-profit agency employing strict rules regarding integrity, marketing language, and accountability across the travel industry.

When you book through a TICO-registered company, you can take advantage of the benefits no matter which country you live in. You can open a case with TICO and pursue action when a company violates TICO guidelines – wherever you live.

Transparency, Safety, and Quality

Jettly is committed to ultimate transparency so you can book in confidence every time. You’ll never have to worry about hidden commission fees, taxes, or surcharges. What you see is what you pay when you book.

Every Jettly operator is Part 135 certified so you know you’re in trustworthy hands. Finally, Jettly is a member of TICO so you can reap the consumer protection benefits no matter where you live.

Ready to hit the open skies? Find out why Jettly is the best choice for private charter newbies and veterans alike.

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Recent Posts

  • 10 Ways Private Charters Differ from Commercial Flights
  • Bahamas Will Accept Private Jet Charters – But Not Commercial Flights
  • How to Protect Yourself from Fraud and Illegal Private Charters
  • 7 Things You Need to Know Before Booking Your First Private Flight
  • 8 Best Summer Travel Destinations for Private Jet Charters in 2020

Categories

  • Air Charter
  • Air Taxi
  • Aircraft
  • Airline Marketing
  • Airlines
  • Aviation Industry
  • Business Travel
  • Culinary Experiences
  • Destinations
  • E-Books
  • Events
  • Infographics
  • Luxury Hotels
  • Monthly Aviation Recaps
  • Newsroom
  • Private Jet
  • Private Jet Business
  • Private Jet Charter
  • Products & Gadgets
  • Uncategorized
  • Videos

Tags

aircraft air travel align aligncenter aligncenter width aviation industry bombardier global british aerospace business jet c525 citation cessna c525 cessna citation charter business charter flights charter industry destinations flight flight aboard havilland dhc id attachment intended location jet card jet charter jet charters king air long range maximum altitude mcdonnell douglas mid range nautical miles nbsp featured nbsp nbsp nearby international passenger seats private aircraft private aviation private boeing private charter private flight private flights private jet private jets range flights regional flight short haul short range

Copyright © 2017 · Writer Styleguide