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!