As school holidays and end-of-year celebrations approach, everyone is looking for the best price to book their plane ticket.
Some people believe it is cheaper to book on a Tuesday, others at night, and others advise booking for a weekday or buying the tickets weeks or even months in advance.
These assumptions may be true when it comes to commercial airlines, especially during the peak periods around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, and around the major school holidays.
But when flying on a private jet, other than price, a host of other services can vary depending on when you book your private jet. But, is there really an ideal time to book a private jet flight ?
Time and day do not have a major impact on your flight.
First of all, you should note that prices for a private jet flight do not increase drastically as the price of commercial airline tickets does during holidays.
However, the opening hours and occupancy rates of the airports you take off from and land at can have an impact on the final price of your flight. Some airports are not allowed to have flights at night to reduce pollution peaks. Some other airports have time restrictions to avoid disturbing the population at night, such as London City Airport, located in the heart of the city. In that case, you have two options. Either you will be offered flying to other airports which may cost you more, or to ask the airport to extend the opening hours, but you will have to pay an additional fee for this service.
Should you book a private jet in advance or last minute?
Prices of a private jet are determined by several factors:
- the location of the aircraft
- the flight time
- the price per hour of the jet rental
- the take-off and landing fees
These elements do not vary when you book a jet several months in advance.
Actually, one of the advantages of business aviation is that you can book your flight at the last minute. Indeed, with private aviation you can be out of here in two hours minimum.
However, for big events, you are advised to book your flight in advance. In periods of high demand, slots at airports can be limited, and airport fees may be higher. Moreover, the most suitable aircraft for your needs and budget may no longer be available. In this case, you may be upgraded and have to pay a little more for your private jet flight.
Emergency flights:
When you book a flight on the day before, the final price may be a little higher. This is because operating on an emergency basis requires you to obtain all the necessary clearances and flight plans. This is done at the last minute and sometimes even overnight. In this case, a last-minute rate may be applied to your booking.
Does travel itinerary affect the booking of a private aircraft?
The time needed to arrange a flight depends on the itinerary. It usually takes a few hours from request to take-off. In some cases, it takes longer, especially when a visa or vaccination record is required. During the COVID-19 crisis, some destinations required slightly longer administrative and preparation methods. Does catering affect the departure of a private jet ?
When you travel by private jet, you can order whatever you want. Caterers or air catering specialists can provide you with quality food. This service therefore requires preparation time on the ground. If you book a last-minute flight, this service cannot be offered. Only the drinks, usually included in the private jet rental, can be offered.
There is no perfect time to book your private jet. You can book your flight whenever you want. Whether you are planning a last-minute flight, or a well-prepared trip AEROAFFAIRES can provide you with a quality service that will meet your needs.
In periods of high demand, do not hesitate to book your private jet a few weeks in advance!
For all requests for chartering a business or private aircraft, please contact us at +33 1 44 09 91 82, by email: charter@aeroaffaires.com or fill in our online quote. We will respond as soon as possible.