No matter whether you choose where to sit or what to drink, here’s everything you should consider before embarking on your initial journey in a private jet.
It turns out, after experiencing private flying, it’s tough to return to regular flights. During the pandemic, the private aviation sector saw significant changes as an entirely new group of travelers—who might previously have chosen business or first-class seating—took up and embraced the opulent and exclusive experience of private air travel. private jets Although safety and efficiency were initially the main attractions, these new jet passengers have discovered they cannot easily go back to their previous modes of transportation. Indeed, the private aviation sector has never been busier, with record numbers of individuals opting for private flights over traditional methods.
"If you examine our data—the number of passengers we transport—over the past five years, spanning from before the pandemic until now, we're nearly experiencing a 65 percent increase year over year," says Michael Silvestro from the premium private jet service Flexjet. Travel + Leisure And these newcomers have maintained a retention rate of around 90% over recent years.
A significant development in the industry is the change in demographic trends. As Silvestro points out, "The age range for [owners] has dropped by about a decade." Currently, many individual flyers are in their early to mid-40s, whereas previously they were usually around their mid-50s.
Related: How to Get a Deal on a Private or Semi-private Jet Flight, According to Aviation Experts
Given the influx of new owners (and thus new passengers), there are numerous novices now flying privately. To help those fortunate individuals acclimate, Silvestro offers some swift advice for making yourself feel right at home aboard a private aircraft.
“There are really two hard and fast rules,” says Silvestro. “One is never be late.” Unlike flying commercial, private fliers don’t need to show up to the airport two hours in advance (arriving 30 minutes before scheduled departure is usually fine), but don’t keep anyone waiting. “You always want to ensure you're waiting for your host and not the other way around,” he advises. Many private terminals (also called FBOs, an acronym for fixed-base operators) are a step up from public commercial terminals. However, you’ll want to prepare for security checks. “You still need valid identification and to clear customs [when flying internationally],” says Silvestro. “Though it might be a smaller, more intimate experience with a border patrol agent, a little less for the masses.”
The additional firm guideline shared by Silvestro is: "Never occupy the owner's seat." He clarifies that this specific spot is usually the forward-facing club chair located on the right side of the plane. Typically, most hosts choose to remain near the cockpit so they can easily converse with both the flight crew and the pilot. Naturally, it’s perfectly acceptable to inquire about seating arrangements. As he puts it, “It’s similar to when you’re invited to someone’s home for dinner; asking ‘Where should I take my seat?’ is simply good manners.”
In terms of drinks, Sparkling wine is invariably a safe pick. (It can be readily replenished and served onboard an airplane), however, consider keeping your coffee requests simple. While some airplanes do come equipped with coffee makers (such as Flexjet planes which feature Nespresso machines), more elaborate drink orders may be best reserved for when you're back on land.
Dreams of dining at Nobu high up in the sky? Absolutely, we can set that up, but first think about a few factors before placing your request. "Keep in mind where you’re starting your journey," advises Silvestro. "If you love sushi and you're traveling from Miami, Los Angeles, or New York, then sure, go for it—but perhaps reconsider if you’re leaving from a smaller town in the Midwest." Additionally, Silvestro suggests using meal orders as an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local scene. He tells global visitors, "Make the most of regional delicacies. If you arrive from Venice, Italy, why settle for a standard turkey sandwich? Instead, indulge in something special and extraordinary tied to your departure point."
For an optimal experience and to avoid appearing inexperienced, make sure you do not overpack since luggage space is restricted, and opt for soft-sided bags instead; refrain from sharing live updates that include the tail-wing numbers as they can be traced; and avoid ostentatious displays of wealth. "There's no need to stress about tipping," advises Silvestro. He recommends expressing thanks to the flight attendants through general courtesy and appropriate behavior rather than monetary gestures.
“He simply says, ‘Don’t be rude,’ which is solid advice not only for flying in private jets but for traveling in general.”
Read the initial article on Travel & Leisure
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