ACS has compiled this helpful FAQ, with all the answers you need to know about private jet charter flights. These are the questions that you have been asking us, from how the charter process works to whether you can bring your pet on board.
Private Jet Charter FAQ
ACS has compiled this helpful FAQ, with all the answers you need to know about private jet charter flights. These are the questions that you have been asking us, from how the charter process works to whether you can bring your pet on board.
PRIVATE JET CHARTER: THE BASICS
HOW DOES THE CHARTER PROCESS WORK?
After your initial enquiry you will be assigned a personal charter expert who will send you a selection of quotes for you to choose from. Each quote will have a clear breakdown of aircraft and airports and the reasons they have been selected for you. Should you wish to go ahead, they will then book the aircraft and send you all the flight details including directions to the terminal and any other important information. They will be your first point of call for any further enquiries you may have up to the flight and, if possible, they will meet you at the terminal. From your initial quote you will be able to contact your account manager 24/7 (if on holiday you will be assigned another account manager to cover) so you can call from wherever, whenever you like.
CAN I FLY WITH MY PET ON AN ACS CHARTER?
Yes, but there are certain rules if flying in to or out of the UK. They will need a pet passport, to be microchipped, their rabies vaccination history (which must be in date) and a tapeworm treatment to be administered 12-24 hours prior to arrival in the UK.
ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED ON PRIVATE JETS?
Yes, ACS can provide meals for children and children’s in-flight entertainment. As with commercial flights, babies can travel on the lap of a parent up until the age of two years old. For toddlers and children we will arrange for the correct child seat or booster seat to be fitted.
IS GROUND TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF MY PRIVATE JET AIR CHARTER?
All charter flight passengers will benefit from courtesy cars to and from the aircraft and there is also a meet and greet service on offer.
WHERE DO I NEED TO GO TO BOARD MY PRIVATE JET CHARTER PLANE?
You can arrive directly at the airport and benefit from VIP-lounges and private terminals. With the luxury and ease of private boarding you can board the plane minutes before takeoff. ACS are also able to arrange a chauffeur to pick you up and take you directly to the airport.
HOW MANY SEATS ARE THERE ON A PERSONAL OR EXECUTIVE CHARTER JET AIRCRAFT?
The number of seats will vary depending on the design of the aircraft. Explore the private aircraft guide to find out the unique specifications for each plane. Some private jets also feature full-size beds.
CAN PRIVATE CHARTER JETS FLY INTO MAJOR AIRPORTS?
Yes, private jets can land at most major international airports. Most commercial airports offer private lounges and facilities exclusively for private jet passengers. With that said, smaller airports often have advantages over larger airports, when it comes to landing charter flights. Your dedicated ACS account manager will be able to advise you further. You can also use the handy airport finder to view airports in each region and get more information.
TO WHAT DESTINATIONS CAN I FLY ON A PRIVATE JET AIR CHARTER?
You can fly anywhere in the world! You can even fly to remote destinations, some that are only reachable by private jet, and visit places that are not served by scheduled services.
DO THE AIRCRAFT HAVE WIFI?
Yes, many of the aircraft have Wi-Fi capability. If this is something that you desire, please speak to your personal account manager who will be happy to help.
DO THE AIRCRAFT HAVE BATHROOMS?
Yes, interior configurations and amenities will vary depending on the type and size of aircraft but some of our private jets offer a bathroom with stand-up shower.
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO MAKE A RESERVATION TO RENT A PRIVATE JET?
Reservations are made on a case-by-case basis. We recommend that you book your private jet rental as early as possible to secure your preferred aircraft. If you need to book a private jet at late notice, we are still able to help. The extensive selection of aircraft that we can charter means that there is likely to be a suitable solution even at the last minute. Find out more about how we can help with any urgent charters requests.
WHO SELECTS THE PRIVATE CHARTER JET AIRCRAFT I WILL FLY ON AND HOW IS IT CHOSEN?
All ACS clients receive a dedicated account manager to help them through their private jet charter experience from start to finish.You will receive three different aircraft options from your account manager, which have been selected to meet your particular requirements. You can then choose the one that you prefer. Each charter is monitored closely by ACS, and we can access information on each aircraft when required, in order to see if it will be available for your required dates.
CAN I SMOKE ON MY FLIGHT? IS SMOKING ALLOWED?
It is still legal to smoke on a private jet however this will be determined on a case-by-case basis and will depend on the owner of the aircraft you charter through ACS. The team at ACS will be happy to advise you on the best aircraft to match your specific requirements.
WHO OWNS THE AIRCRAFT I WILL BE FLYING IN AND WHY IS IT AVAILABLE FOR HIRE?
ACS holds a comprehensive database of worldwide operators and works with many airlines to provide aircraft leasing and specialised charter solutions to clients.
WHAT IS THE BEST PRIVATE JET CHARTER?
If you have been searching for a private jet charter provider, ACS comes highly recommended. As one of the largest aircraft charter companies in the world, with 20 offices around the globe, ACS arranges more than 11,000 charters each year, for both private and business clients.
WHEN CAN I BOOK A PRIVATE JET?
You can book a private jet from any time you wish to enquire to the day you wish to travel, dependant on availability. We will do everything we can to ensure you fly when you need to, where you need to. If we need to obtain permits, we will need longer than 24 hours.
WHAT ABOUT WHEELCHAIR ACCESS OR SPECIALIST MEDICAL CARE?
Most, if not all, airports will offer wheelchair access but be sure to check with your account manager prior to your flight. If you need specialist medical care, such as an ambulift, you will be limited to certain terminals and aircraft with these facilities to accommodate.
CAN YOU ARRANGE GROUND TRANSPORT?
Yes we can, though we specialise in air travel we can also book any ground transport you need.
WHAT’S AN EMPTY LEG?
An empty leg is a journey where the aircraft is empty for a section of its journey. So say it was booked from London to Rotterdam one-way, it then has to come back. Equally, if it is going out to pick people up and bring them back, then it is empty on the way out. Find out more on our Empty Leg Flights page.
ARE THE AIRCRAFT YOURS?
ACS does not own a fleet but have access to over 50,000 aircraft worldwide. They are maintained to the same standards as commercial airliners but are considerably younger.
HOW DO I DECIDE WHICH AIRCRAFT TO CHARTER?
Your dedicated account manager will advise you and provide you with a suitable range of aircraft based on your requirements, assisting you with your final decision. Read about the different aircraft available in the aircraft guide.
WHICH AIRPORTS CAN I FLY TO?
An ACS charter gives you access to more locations, including smaller private airports that you are unable to reach by scheduled services. This means that you can arrive closer to your final destination. The only thing which may impact this is if you’re due to arrive very early in the morning or late at night as not all airports are 24 hours meaning you’ll have to land at one that is. You can use the airport finder to locate airports in your chosen area and find out about the facilities that each airport offers.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRIVATE AIRCRAFT FLIGHTS AND SCHEDULED AIRLINE SERVICES?
Charter flights can fly into smaller regional airports that commercial scheduled airline services can not. This means that you may be able to get nearer to your destination and fly to remote destinations. If you want to visit a remote island for example, commercial flights may not offer a direct route, but with a private jet charter this is possible. On a private jet charter you can also choose exactly when you want to fly and who you want to fly with. Relaxation and convenience are the top priority, and you can choose how you want to spend the duration of your flight, be it working or sleeping, without being disturbed by other passengers. You can control the air-conditioning, select your preferred in-flight dining menu and tailor the flight to suit your exact needs – on a private jet charter the ball is in your court. Extra leg room, padded reclining chairs and sometimes even full-size beds, mean that you can really relax. Another key benefit is that boarding times are greatly reduced, and you may only need to arrive 15 minutes before the time of your departure.
BEFORE YOUR FLIGHT
HOW LONG BEFORE MY FLIGHT DO I NEED TO CHECK-IN?
Using private terminals means that you are able to check-in much closer to take-off than you could on a scheduled service flight. Sometimes you can arrive as little as 15 minutes before the aircraft is due to depart, and in some cases you can even be driven directly to the aircraft for boarding.
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD OR MY AIRCRAFT GOES TECH?
In either case your account manager will do their best to rectify the situation as soon as possible. In the case of bad weather you may need to delay take off, amend your route or land at a slightly different airport. In the case of a tech aircraft we will try to get a replacement to you as soon as possible.
WHAT DOCUMENTATION DO I NEED TO FLY ON A PRIVATE JET CHARTER AIRCRAFT?
Each passenger boarding the private jet will need a valid passport. A visa may also be required for visiting certain countries.The same documentation is required for passengers travelling by private jet as for those travelling on commercial flights, the same check-in and security processes apply but they just happen at a faster pace. As with commercial flights, it is essential that all passengers pass the immigration requirements for the country being travelled to. As private jet flights are ticketless, you do not need to bring a ticket. However, you will be given a flight itinerary and booking reference which you will need to bring.
WHAT ARE THE FACILITIES AT THE AIRPORT LIKE?
With an ACS charter you will often have access to a private terminal. The amenities of which will vary, depending on each airport, but will generally be of a high standard and have a separate entrance, check-in, immigration and security check area. You will need your passport to travel and in most cases you can leave your car until your return.
HOW LONG BEFORE MY JET CHARTER FLIGHT DO I NEED TO BE AT THE AIRPORT?
Your dedicated account manager will help you to get ready for your flight and will advise you on the time that you need to arrive. You should always arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time for international and domestic flights.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET HELD UP AND DELAYED?
As long as your delay doesn’t affect the aircraft’s schedule then it will wait for you. ACS will generally try to schedule in some buffer time though this is not always available depending on the aircraft.
DURING YOUR FLIGHT
WHAT CATERING IS INCLUDED?
Depending on the type of aircraft and length of flight you’ll have different catering options available to you. Smaller aircraft will not be able to offer hot food aside from soup. Onboard catering will be VIP-standard and we can accommodate any dietary requirements you may have without any extra charges. You can also request food from local hotels or restaurants to have on board. We also have meal plans for children. Do bear in mind that any specialist requests, such as caviar or certain wines, Champagnes or spirits may incur a charge.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I ARRIVE AT MY DESTINATION?
ACS can arrange a chauffeur to meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel or residence that you will be staying in. Speak to our dedicated concierge services team who will be happy to help. ACS can also enhance your trip once you’ve reached your destination by offering exclusive travel packages and securing exclusive opportunities, such as VIP opera tickets and yacht charters.
CAN I CHANGE MY SCHEDULE OR ITINERARY ONCE THE TRIP HAS BEGUN?
Yes, subject to the aircraft availability, airport opening hours and any other applicable aviation variables. For last-minute trip changes your account manager will be happy to help.
WHAT ARE THE STANDARD POLICIES, INCLUDING THAT FOR PETS AND SMOKING, ON BOARD A JET AIR CHARTER?
Pets require a pet passport and need to be microchipped. Other requirements include an up-to-date rabies vaccination record and sometimes a tapeworm treatment is required depending on the destination. To fly into or out of the US, cats and dogs need to be eight weeks old or more and weaned. Pets crossing state borders (with the exception of guide dogs) are required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to be immunized against rabies and to have a valid health certificate, issued by a veterinarian within 30 days of travel (10 days in certain circumstances). If you wish your pet to travel in cargo, you need a safe, approved pet carrier, and in extreme weather a veterinary’s approval is needed. Each state has its own Center for Disease Control (CDC).
Smoking is legal on private jets but this will depend on the particular aircraft that you choose to charter.
IS THERE A FLIGHT ATTENDANT ON BOARD THE PRIVATE JET CHARTER FLIGHT?
Yes, a flight attendant will be there to make sure that you and your group have the most enjoyable flight possible. All the flight attendants on board ACS charter flights are there to provide the highest standards of service.
WHAT MEALS WILL I BE SERVED?
Your account manager will go through the different in-flight catering options available to you, and your menu can be planned in advance to match your particular tastes and preferences. We can accommodate any dietary requirements you have without an extra supplement. Another option is to select food from a suitable restaurant of choice to have served on-board.
WHAT KIND OF IN-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE CAN I EXPECT WITH A PRIVATE JET AIR CHARTER?
The majority of aircraft come with a full in-flight entertainment centre, including high speed Wi-Fi, movie rentals, interactive entertainment and more.
PRIVATE JET CHARTER COST AND PAYMENT
DOES ACS OFFER A JET CARD OR SIMILAR PRODUCT?
Yes, our jet card division, Empyrean, offers clients prepaid jet card products. The Empyrean Card is, we believe, the world’s most flexible jet card. To find out more, visit our Jet Card page.
HOW MUCH IS IT TO CHARTER A PRIVATE JET? HOW MUCH FOR A PRIVATE JET CHARTER?
The price to charter a private jet varies greatly depending on the length of journey, number of passengers and other specifications, such as the type of jet you choose. You can get an immediate estimate cost for your private jet charter here.
DOES THE COST TO CHARTER A JET VARY WITH THE NUMBER OF PASSENGERS?
The size of the aircraft will affect the hourly rate and the time that the journey takes. Catering costs and passenger taxes will of course vary with passenger numbers.
ARE THERE ANY EXTRA CHARGES?
The only extra charges you could incur are if you’re using Wi-Fi on-board an aircraft and it wasn’t included in your package, There could be extra charges if there are deicing costs, if you request certain food or drinks, or if you make any last minute amendments. Any flights within the UK will be charged VAT.
IS IT MORE COST EFFICIENT TO CHARTER A JET, IF I AM TRAVELING WITH A GROUP OF 10 OR 15?
Yes, it can be more cost effective, this is because the total cost may be equal to that of buying a separate ticket for each person on a commercial flight. This is especially true if you are thinking of purchasing first class or business class tickets. For a group of 10-15 people, we would recommend a turboprop like the Fairchild Metro III 23 or heavy jet such as the Falcon 900EX DX LX.
HOW DO I PAY FOR MY PRIVATE JET CHARTER FLIGHT?
We accept bank transfer and card payment. A deposit may need to be put down to secure your charter. You can also use the Empyrean Card, a flexible jet card offered by ACS. With your money safely held in a trust account, you can use the card to pay easily and securely. Benefits of taking out the Empyrean Card include the best rates and increased flight time for your investment, meaning that you can fly further for less.
WHAT IS THE PRICE TO CHARTER A PRIVATE JET?
The price to charter a private jet may not be as much as you’d imagine. With the rising costs of flying first class and business class on commercial flights, the benefits of private jet charter are measurable. Get an estimate for your journey and explore the different aircraft on offer with the ACS journey planner.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO CHARTER A PRIVATE JET? WHAT DOES IT COST TO CHARTER A PRIVATE JET?
The price to charter a private jet depends on the journey, how many passengers will be travelling and the type of jet that you choose. You can use the ACS private jet charter price calculator to get an estimate cost for your journey. This easy-to-use tool allows you to enter your destination, date and specific requirements for an immediate estimate.
PRIVATE JET CHARTER COST PER HOUR
There is no standardized cost per hour for chartering a private jet. Rates will depend on the type of aircraft and the journey itself. You can read more in this recent blog post on how much it costs to charter a private jet.
LUGGAGE
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I TAKE WITH ME ON A PRIVATE JET?
You will be told how much the hold can take on your chosen aircraft and can upgrade if you feel more space is needed. This will generally be far more than that of a commercial airline. You may also need to upgrade if carrying things like golf clubs and skis. If travelling with a gun, you will need to provide a license and the gun and ammunition must be kept separate. It is then at the captain’s discretion whether it can be on board.
CAN I TAKE A WINDSURF BOARD ON A PRIVATE JET?
Yes, private jets are not subject to the standard baggage restrictions of commercial flights. Smaller planes may have a smaller hold and this is something you need to factor in when choosing your aircraft.
CAN I TAKE A KITE ON A PRIVATE JET?
Yes, there are no baggage restrictions on private jets. Smaller planes may have a smaller hold and this is something you need to factor in when choosing your aircraft.
CAN I TAKE SKIS ON A PRIVATE JET?
Yes, there are no baggage restrictions on private jets. Discuss your luggage requirements with you account manager beforehand and they will advise you of the most suitable aircraft options. Smaller planes may have a smaller hold and this is something you need to factor in when choosing your aircraft.
CAN I TAKE A SNOWBOARD ON A PRIVATE JET?
Yes, there are no baggage restrictions on private jets, so as long as there is enough space in the hold for a snowboards that is fine. Smaller planes may have a smaller hold and this is something your account manager will factor in when choosing your aircraft. You can view the luggage space of specific aircrafts using the aircraft guide.
CAN I TAKE A WHEELCHAIR ON A PRIVATE JET?
Yes, and the wheelchair can be stored in the cabin storage area, making it more convenient for disembarking the aircraft. The private jet boarding process is very easy for people in wheelchairs, as there is often immediate boarding, without the need to queue or wait for assistance. Wheelchair users will be driven directly to the steps of the aircraft with any other passengers. A ramp is then in place for the wheelchair to be pushed up the plane. Increased leg room, more comfortable seating and private amenities will make the flight much more comfortable. Your ACS account manager will help you to choose a jet with a large enough cabin storage area and make sure that the airport you fly in to has disabled access.
ARE GOLF CLUBS ALLOWED ON PRIVATE JETS?
Yes there are no baggage restrictions on private jets. Smaller planes may have a smaller hold and this is something you need to factor in when choosing your aircraft. The security restrictions of commercial airlines do not apply – sharp items, liquids and firearms are OK, but this should be discussed with your personal account manager beforehand and is at the captain’s discretion. A short runway may mean that an extremely heavy hold may not be appropriate, but this is something that would be worked out prior to your trip.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING ABOARD A PRIVATE JET? HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I TAKE?
This will depend on the hold size of your chosen aircraft, and will be talked through with your account manager beforehand. Private jet customers will always benefit from increased luggage allowance in comparison to what is available on commercial flights.