Private air charter services are becoming increasingly popular on international business trips, vacations, and honeymoons. But for those who have not engaged in these kinds of travel arrangements, the concept may seem a little unnerving. In this article, we’ll try to provide a brief overview of private air chartering so you can decide if it’s right for you.
Like all forms of commercial aviation charter, private air charter is regulated by federal aviation regulations. However, unlike commercial airline travel, there are few restrictions or requirements for private aviation chartering. As long as it meets minimum safety standards, many people will choose this option. What is so appealing to many is the cost and time savings associated with traveling by private aircraft. With today’s economic downturn, many people find it difficult to justify the cost of flying commercially even when they are only going one or two miles above the earth.
A typical private air charter flight will consist of a small aircraft typically of around 5 hours duration flying time. These charter flights are scheduled to arrive at a destination airport, usually within the continental United States. There may be several different types of aircraft from which to choose. Some will be small versions of large twin-engine jetliners. Other types of private jets will include light, regional aircraft, and even helicopter models.
To engage in the highly lucrative flying private air travel route, you need to be aware of federal aviation safety regulations. One of the most important elements is to obtain the proper authorization before attempting to charter a private aircraft. This is a straightforward step and will make all the difference between an enjoyable and financially rewarding experience versus a disaster. Several different private flying organizations are set up to make this process easy and affordable for as many of their members as possible.
Another thing that you will want to do before you ever leave your home is to familiarize yourself with all the local laws and regulations regarding the area over which you will be flying. These laws often regulate the minimum safe distance from an airport to an aircraft taking off or landing. They also regulate the times at which aircraft may be airborne from any airport. In addition, there are regulations concerning the times at which a pilot may be airborne. You must have at least the proper air travel documents in place before you fly.
The next step is to find the appropriate charter company to conduct your flight. These companies operate from highly organized terminals at all major airports throughout the country. You will find that there is a wide range of aircraft available to meet your every requirement. Private jet charters can provide single-engine planes to the more heavy-duty executive models. Most often, charter services will also offer charter flying on larger aircraft such as helicopters.
Once you have found the right charter, you will need to determine what flying you will need to accomplish the trip. Often, you can book either a one-way flight which is the most economical way to travel or a return flight, which allows you to return to the same point you first departed from. Many of these aircraft are equipped to carry a variety of different forms of charter gear, so you can enjoy the trip regardless of whether you intend to land at an airport or fly into a country’s private area.
Of course, the one thing that you must remember before you ever book a flight is to ensure that the charter operator that you select is licensed to operate in the area in which you plan to visit. This is an important safety measure that will protect you, your passengers, and any property that is on board. Many rogue charter operators have been known to make bad decisions that put the lives of others in danger. To prevent this from happening, you can use the services of a professional aircraft charter broker that is licensed to operate in your area.
