So, you’re ready to fly private – no lines, no crowds, no compromises. Whether you’re planning a business trip, a last-minute escape, or the luxury vacation of a lifetime, chartering a private jet for the first time can feel exciting – and slightly intimidating.
Don’t worry. This guide walks you through exactly how to charter a private jet, what to expect, and how to make the most of your first experience in the sky.
Why Fly Private?
Before we get into the how, let’s quickly talk about the why:
- Time Efficiency – Avoid check-in lines, layovers, and airport chaos. Arrive minutes before departure.
- Flexibility – Fly on your schedule, to the airports closest to your final destination.
- Privacy & Comfort – Your jet. Your space. No strangers.
- Tailored Experience – From catering and entertainment to onboard staff and ground transport, everything can be customized.
Step-by-Step: How to Charter a Private Jet
1. Define Your Travel Needs
Start with the basics:
- Departure & arrival cities (and whether your schedule is flexible)
- Dates and times of travel
- Number of passengers
- Pets
- One-way or round trip
- Luggage (especially if you’re bringing sports equipment, musical instrument, or oversized items)
This information will help your charter broker recommend the right aircraft.
2. Choose a Jet Type
Private jets come in a wide range of sizes – from compact entry-level jets for short trips to ultra-long-range jets for transcontinental journeys in ultimate comfort.
A brief overview:
- Entry-Level Jets / Very Light Jets (VLJs) – for 2–4 passengers, ideal for very short trips of 1–2 hours, e.g., Rome → Nice or New York → Washington D.C. (Example: Cessna Citation Mustang)
- Light Jets – for up to 6 passengers, perfect for 2–3-hour flights, such as Munich → Palma de Mallorca or Los Angeles → Seattle. (Example: Cessna Citation CJ2)
- Super-Light Jets – for 6–8 passengers, ideal for 2.5–3.5-hour flights, e.g., Berlin → Athens or Miami → Chicago. (Example: Cessna Citation XLS)
- Midsize Jets – for up to 8 passengers, comfortable for 4–5 hours, such as Hamburg → Tenerife or Washington D.C. → Las Vegas. (Example: Hawker 800XP)
- Super-Midsize Jets – for 8–10 passengers, ideal for 5–6 hours, e.g., Düsseldorf → Dubai or New York → Los Angeles. (Example: Gulfstream G280)
- Heavy Jets – for 9+ passengers, with transcontinental range, such as Dublin → Dubai or New York → Paris. (Example: Challenger 650)
- Ultra-Long-Range Jets – the pinnacle of luxury and range, perfect for long-haul flights such as Dubai → Marrakesh or Zurich → Los Angeles. (Example: Gulfstream G650, Bombardier Global 7500)
Your broker will match your needs to the best aircraft.
3. Work with a Charter Broker (That’s Us!)
A professional charter broker:
- Accesses thousands of aircraft worldwide
- Ensures all jets meet strict safety and maintenance standards
- Negotiates pricing on your behalf
- Manages everything from catering to airport transfers
Think of your broker as your personal flight concierge – making sure every detail is handled.
4. Review the Options & Confirm Your Flight
Your broker will send you one or more quotes with aircraft options, photos, amenities, and pricing. You’ll review and select based on your preferences – whether that’s lowest cost, most space, or luxury features.
Once you confirm:
- You’ll receive a charter agreement to sign and an invoice for payment
- Payment is typically required in full prior to the flight
- In the days leading up to your flight, you’ll receive your final itinerary, complete crew details, and FBO (private terminal) information, ensuring a seamless, stress-free experience from the moment you arrive
5. Day of the Flight: Just Show Up (A Bit Early)
Private flights depart from FBOs – Fixed-Base Operators – which are private terminals at airports. No long lines, and no security checks like on commercial flights. Just a quick ID check, and you’re escorted straight to your aircraft.
You can typically arrive 15–30 minutes before takeoff – or even closer, depending on the airport.
Pro Tips for First-Time Flyers
- Bring your ID or passport. Yes, you still need it – especially for international travel.
- Catering can be customized. Want champagne and sushi? A kid-friendly snack basket? Let your broker know in advance.
- Ask about luggage limits. Each jet has space limitations – especially light jets.
- Bring your pet. Most private jets are pet-friendly, but this must be arranged ahead of time.
- Enjoy the freedom. Want to change your departure time by an hour? With private flying, it’s often possible.
Ready to Book Your First Private Jet?
Chartering a private jet is easier than it sounds – especially when you have the right team behind you. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, we’re here to make the experience smooth, luxurious, and tailored to you.
Have questions or ready to fly?
Reach out today, and we’ll get you off the ground.