Overview of Private Aircraft Charters

Overview of Private Aircraft Charters

Most people feel that a private aircraft charter is only for the millionaires and celebrities. In reality, a large part of private airplane charter use is for business. And we are not talking big names but even average size businesses need to use aircraft charter from time to time. Moreover, in many cases, aircraft charter rates can add up to less than ticket prices on the average jet liner.

Private aircraft charter companies don't always own the planes they run. Many belong to rich private owners or big businesses, who lend them to the charter companies to keep up maintenance. Generally, like car rental companies, private jet charter companies are legally bound to keep their aircraft well maintained. You can chose to ask for the latest inspection report or anything similar for assurance and see that the last maintenance of the particular aircraft on offer is not too long ago. Same applies for the pilots. You should never compromise on these for lower aircraft charter rates.

This is where a little of research comes in handy. By knowing how aircraft charter rates are calculated i.e. hours of use, mileage etc, you might be able to shave off a few dollars. It's also very important to research the aircraft charter before you hire - you should be looking at an impeccable track record and a responsible attitude from the staff.

Aircraft charter rates vary by size of aircraft, distance, location, weather flown etc. For instance, an advertisement agency may charter a flight to an island with no proper landing runway or an oil company may charter a helicopter to fly surveyors to an oil rig on the sea - here depending on the risk factor prices may vary. But as you will notice, you probably wouldn't get a Lufthansa or a Delta flight to that uninhabited island or that oil rig, leaving you with no other option but to charter an aircraft.

First of all, you should find a charter company that is willing to take the time to answer all your questions. Question carefully as to the capacity and fuel requirement of each craft before deciding which is the best and most cost effective option. Also get a second opinion. Private jet charters are not above a little psychological selling. For example, company A may insist that your destination airport, because of its location or surface, needs a special type of aircraft e.g. chopper for spot landing etc. If you are not aware of airport facilities, inquiring directly at the airport or even asking another charter might help you avoid paying higher aircraft charter rates.

While looking at aircraft charter rates, you will have to consider the weather a big and uncertain factor. Most responsible charter companies have up-to-date weather information and you should we able to calculate possible delays and added charges before booking a charter. For instance, due to bad weather the airport you want to land on becomes unreachable and you have to redirect the flight to another airport. Consider the added costs now in terms of transport to the point of destination from the new airport etc. If you are well informed you can bargain over these factors to adjust the aircraft charter rates before flying.

For those who use the charter frequently, there are a few options. One will be to opt for something like an annual pass, become a card holder member which will allow for lot of added benefits cost wise. But take into account the membership fee' here as well. The other option will be to share the ownership of a craft, like in time share. But this will include the aircraft maintenance cost as well and as you will be a part owner, it is possible for two owners to demand the use of the craft at the same time. And always read the fine print, especially for hidden costs like cabin crew, in flight snacks etc.

If you are not sure about going for aircraft charter, do a little calculation. Estimate the number of time you will need to travel. Calculate the average cost of the flight to your business. Approach an aircraft charter with the same estimated flight schedule and ask for a cost. Sometime you can even ask if they can top the regular flight costs. Aircraft charter rates are extremely competitive and you will surely get an offer you cannot refuse.