Top Private Plane Charter Tips for 2025
Chartering a private plane offers the ultimate in convenience, comfort, and flexibility—whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or a special event. At JetOptions Private Jets, we deliver a seamless experience from door to destination. To help you make the most of your flight, we’ve compiled this updated 2025 guide featuring essential tips for chartering a private plane.
1. Choose the Right Aircraft for Your Trip
Light jets, midsize jets, super midsize jets, and heavy jets each offer different benefits. A light plane is perfect for regional hops, while a heavy jet can accommodate international travel with lie-flat beds, showers, and onboard Wi-Fi. Know your passenger count, range, and luggage needs, then work with our JetOptions charter team to match the best aircraft for your itinerary, budget, and comfort preferences.
2. Book in Advance When Possible
While JetOptions can arrange flights on short notice, booking five to seven days in advance gives you more aircraft options, preferred time slots, and better pricing, especially during high-demand periods like holidays, major sporting events, or the summer travel season. Some specialty aircraft or long-range models may require even more lead time to ensure they are available.
3. Consider Your Departure and Arrival Airports
One of the most significant advantages of private aviation is the flexibility it offers at airports. You can skip the congestion of major terminals and land at smaller, private airports closer to your actual destination. JetOptions has access to over 5,000 airports across the U.S. and thousands more globally. Whether you’re flying to Aspen, Teterboro, or a remote island retreat, we ensure optimal routing and the smoothest experience possible.
4. Customize Your In-Flight Experience
From custom catering and entertainment to your favorite wine or fresh flowers in the cabin, we tailor every element of your flight. Let us know if you require dietary accommodations, pet travel, a sleeping cabin, or special onboard services such as a nanny, onboard chef, or security escort. Want champagne waiting at wheels up or a birthday surprise at cruise altitude? We can arrange it.
5. Know the Rules for Traveling with Children and Infants
Traveling with infants or toddlers? JetOptions can help you plan around safety and comfort. FAA regulations require children under two to sit on a parent’s lap or in an approved car seat. We can assist with child seating, in-flight meals, entertainment, and travel documents, such as passports, for international trips. Many parents choose private charter for the extra space, privacy, and control it offers on family journeys.
6. Flying While Pregnant
Flying private during pregnancy is generally safe for most expectant mothers, but it’s always best to consult your doctor first. If flying past 28–36 weeks, many physicians recommend a travel clearance visit. Our jets offer spacious seating, private restrooms, and a smoother boarding experience than commercial terminals, eliminating long walks, crowded lines, and unnecessary stress.
7. Consider Pet Travel Requirements
JetOptions welcomes pets aboard your private jet. Please let us know the breed, weight, and any special needs you may have. We offer pet-friendly aircraft with seating or crate arrangements and can coordinate pet catering, water bowls, and in-flight comfort essentials. Some aircraft allow pets to sit beside their owners, and we can also coordinate ground services with pet transportation as needed.
8. Communicate Special Requests Early
Whether you need a ramp for accessibility, onboard medical equipment, or customs pre-clearance, communicating early ensures we can fulfill every detail. Our concierge team is available 24/7 to manage your itinerary, preferences, and any last-minute updates. Early notice also helps with coordinating multiple ground handlers or complex itineraries, such as multi-leg trips or international customs clearances.
9. Save Time with Direct Boarding and FBO Access
Private flyers skip TSA lines entirely. You’ll arrive at a fixed-base operator (FBO), where your crew and aircraft are waiting. FBOs offer private lounges, car-to-plane access, and exclusive security screening, saving you valuable hours on every trip. Many of our clients go from car to sky in under 15 minutes.
10. Understand Costs and Billing
Private jet charter pricing includes hourly aircraft rate, fuel, crew fees, landing fees, and other variable charges. JetOptions provides upfront, transparent pricing with no membership fees or long-term contracts. Request a quote and compare real-time availability across multiple aircraft types. Our team can also advise on one-way pricing, round-trip savings, or special repositioning rates if you’re flexible.
Request a Private Jet Charter Quote
Need more help planning your charter? Call us at 214-254-4997, email our team, or use the form below to request a customized flight quote.