Although flying privately was previously an activity associated with the wealthy elite, given the course that air travel has taken in light of the pandemic, frequent flyers have started to look towards chartering a private jet as an alternative option for a much smoother flying experience. The average private plane cost isn’t what it used to be anymore, and now the difference between flying first class and private jets has entered a range where costs have started to look more similar than ever before.
The luxuries that come with chartering a private jet are certainly worth considering if you are also a frequent flyer. There are options even within flying privately such as traveling solo or with a group for you to consider. But which option is better for business traveling? We’ve compiled all the information you need for both first-class travel as well as travel via private jet, so keep reading below!
First Class Travel
Considered as being the more elegant end of traveling with an economy airline, traveling first class is still one of the most commonly used and accessible options for frequent flyers, whether that’s for domestic flights, or internationally. Let’s take a closer look at why flying first class might be something to consider.
Cost.
Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of flying first class is the cost aspect of it. Compared to the cost of chartering a private jet which can sometimes be calculated per hour, flying first-class might suit you better depending on your budget. Although it still costs more than an economy seat, it will still cost considerably less than a private jet.
This is especially true if you plan to fly domestically. It is often more pocket-friendly booking a first-class seat on a domestic flight than chartering a private jet, and if you’re visiting a particularly busy city, then there won’t be any issues with scheduling either as there’ll be plenty of flights coming in and out to suit your timetable.
Extra Amenities.
As a first-class flyer, you’re certainly entitled to a fair amount of benefits that the average flyer won’t be able to access, with extra luggage allowance at no additional cost, perhaps being one of the biggest advantages. Aside from the luggage allowance typically being more for first-class passengers, there are also express lanes exclusively for business class, which means that checking in, getting through security, and being able to wait in the VIP pre-departure lounge all make for a smooth and efficient process for you at the airport. On the aircraft too, you have access to comfortable seats that can open out into reclining positions so you’re able to rest on the trip and have access to a much more extensive menu for mealtimes too.
Private Traveling
Whilst flying first class has typically been the traditional route to take if you are someone who flies for business quite often, traveling via private jet has become a preferable mode of travel for many, and here are some reasons as to why that may be the case.
Time-Saving.
If your priority lies in needing to save as much time as possible, then you might want to go that extra mile and spend a little bit extra for additional benefits that’ll save you time, and even money in the long run.
Private jets are able to completely bypass the rush that comes with needing to visit busy airports for all commercial airlines. Instead, they can fly into smaller, and less crowded airports, meaning you can be in and out of the airport in less than half the time that you typically would. The security process is a lot smoother too, and with basically unlimited luggage allowance, you can bring all your necessities, including liquids fuss-free on board with you.
Health and Safety.
Perhaps one of the biggest reasons frequent passengers started to look towards flying privately was because of the obvious increase in health and safety measures that it could bring, as opposed to flying commercially. If you’re someone who travels frequently for business, the last thing you need on one of your trips is to fall ill and have to quarantine for a number of days, all because of a surface you touched, or came into contact with something contagious at a commercial level airport.
Because of the reduction in the number of passengers when flying privately, there’s a much smoother check-in process, and you may have the option to do all of your pre-departure checks well ahead of time and drive straight up to your aircraft, saving both time as well as reduce the risk of infection as you come into contact with far fewer people.
Flexibility.
Another time-saving aspect of flying privately comes with how flexible it is, in many different ways, including empty leg flights. Not only are you in charge of the flight schedule, if you plan on traveling for only a few hours domestically, for example, private jet companies are often willing to wait at your destination and then fly back once you are ready, meaning you’re able to spend as little time as possible waiting in between flights.
Similarly, you might find that a meeting that was due to take place has been canceled or rescheduled suddenly. In the case of it being a commercial airline trip, the effort and time needed to try and reschedule would be a lot longer than if you were flying privately.
Flying privately is also a good option for those needing special arrangements, such as handicapped passengers who may require a wheelchair. Although this is accessible with normal flying too, private flight means that you are a lot more comfortable because of how much space is available to you.
