If you’re shopping around for the best deals on charter jet flights, a little background information is often helpful to get the best rates. After all, the more you know, the better you can negotiate. Take a look at how charter jet flights are priced, and use the information to get the best deal.
Pricing Methods
Charter jet flights are usually priced by one of two methods: either flight time or block time. Flight time refers to the amount of time the aircraft is airborne. Block time includes taxi time during departure and arrival.
Pricing method may vary by operator, and is often influenced by the type of aircraft and location. Check with your broker or operator to find out which type of pricing they are using. Then make sure you are comparing apples to apples.
Charter jet quotes are typically based on estimated flight time. Remember that a quote is just an estimate, and your actual price may vary depending on weather, prevailing winds, and air traffic.
Fees
Most operators will include charges for minimum daily usage of at least two hours a day. This is typically averaged over the duration of your travel. Also, depending on fuel costs, you may see a fuel surcharge added to your bill.
You can probably also expect to pay landing fees, which offsets the costs of aircraft wear and tear. The price will vary depending on the aircraft flown, but you could see anywhere from $100 for a light airplane to $500 for a large jet.
Depending on your needs and the size of the charter jet you choose, you may need the services of one or more flight attendants. These professionals are trained in safety procedures and will most often serve the passengers meals and/or snacks. They usually cost around $500 per flight.
If you (and your charter jet) are staying overnight during your trip, you will probably be responsible for the costs of housing the flight crew. This could be just one pilot or two pilots plus one or more flight attendants, depending on the size of the aircraft and whether you’ve elected to bring additional flight attendants. Depending on the city you’re staying in, these fees can be upwards of $250 – $500 or more, per person, per night.
There are also some fees that you may not be able to predict. If there is bad weather and the airplane needs de-icing, for instance, you may be charged a de-icing fee. In addition, if air traffic at the airport is heavy, you may also be charged a high density fee. To avoid these fees, arrange your travel at times and in places where you’re most likely to avoid icy weather conditions and heavy air traffic.
Photo via AgentAkit
