Just about anybody can charter a private jet these days. However, although it may seem easy as all you really need to do is use your smartphone and tap a couple of times, you should spend more time looking for the right private jet than simply clicking on the first Google add that you see. Some companies call themselves the Uber of private jets, but you need to be careful of companies like this.
There are lots of issues and things to consider before you hire a private jet out at all. Make sure you don’t make the following mistakes when you hire a private jet:
Failing To Check Out The Background And Experience
Making sure you look up the background and experience of the private jet you’re looking to hire is so important. You should find out who the FAA-certificated charter operator is that will conduct your charter flights, as well as what experience they have and how long they have been in business.
You want to learn as much as you can about the aircraft, too, such as when it was manufactured, any major refurbishments, interior equipment, and so on. This will all give you a clearer picture of what you’re letting yourself in for when you hire out this jet. Knowing the experience of the crew in terms of flight time and hours will also help to put your mind at ease.
Not Thinking About Safety And Security
Not all jets, pilots, and crews are created equal. You want to make sure you look into the safety and security of any jet and company before hiring. Find out what the operator’s safety record is, whether there has been any incidents, and any measures put in place to ensure increased safety for passengers.
You could also look into finding out how often training is provided to the crew and what is covered in the training. For example, does the charter operator provide training above and beyond the minimum training requirements established by the FAA? It won’t be any use hiring the fastest jet in the world if the crew isn’t provided with ongoing training to ensure that each passenger’s journey goes as safely and smoothly as possible.
It will also help you to know whether a flight attendant will be on board, and whether they are assigned to the specific aircraft.
Failing To Ask The Right Questions
You should have a lot of questions for any company you feel like hiring a private jet from, so ask them and don’t feel bad for asking. Instead of asking things like ‘how much is this going to cost me?’ You want to ask things like:
- Is the aircraft equipped with a defibrillator and are the crew trained in its use?
- Does the aircraft have a subscription to an in-flight medical assistance program in case of medical emergency?
- Who maintains the aircraft?
Write down any questions you have. Check out FAQ pages, and if answers aren’t on there then email or call. You need to make sure you have satisfactory answers to your questions before getting on a private jet!
