The demand for private jet charters has increased during the Covid-19 pandemic as people try to reduce their exposure risk. Private flights mean quieter airports, fewer (and familiar) fellow passengers, private lounges, and no booking-in or baggage collection queues, and a crew that’s not been exposed to thousands of people. All very appealing advantages in a pandemic!
However, supply hasn’t quite managed to meet the increased demand yet, and the private jet charter industry has, like all others, suffered Covid-related staff shortages. So, if you’re wondering when to book a private jet, the answer is: as soon as possible.
The Benefits of Booking Your Private Jet Flight Early
A good broker will offer you a bespoke service, doing all they can to meet your needs before, during, and after your flight. Perhaps you want to travel with pets or precious cargo? Maybe you need bodyguards at your destination or five-star catering onboard the plane? At Paramount Business Jets, we pride ourselves on offering a high-quality, end-to-end service. However, it’s always easier to meet your exact requirements if we have more time.
- Extra services can be harder to source if you book your flight just days beforehand, and it can be harder to find the ideal plane to meet your needs too.
- Prices are lower for advance booking, as we have more time and flexibility to find the best deal for you.
- The most convenient travel dates, times, and departure points will be easier to arrange for you when you book early.
It’s often still possible to fly on short notice, but you may need to travel to an airport further away to board a suitable plane (spend more to reposition to a closer airport). Plus, of course, your pilots and crew don’t wait at the airport. There’s a minimum two-hour callout for pilots, as they need to not just travel to the airport, but also do their pre-flight inspection and fuel up the plane. The crew needs time to ensure the aircraft is fully stocked with items such as food and drinks.
Book a Private Jet Earlier for Peak Travel Times
If you’re planning to travel around the time of major celebrations and holidays, be aware that there will be increased demand. Leaving your booking late will make it harder to get the services and flights you want at a good price.
To get the best-equipped aircraft, and the facilities and luxuries you want, plan ahead. Book your private jet charter flight for Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, spring break, or your summer vacation as soon as you know your travel dates.
How Far in Advance Should a Private Jet Charter Be Booked?
So, just how early should you book your private jet flight?
Generally, sooner rather than later, but booking one to three months ahead is ideal. This means that operators have a clear idea of their plane availability and that you have the best chance of booking the most suitable, high-quality plane for your needs and the additional services you require. It’s also the window in which you’re likely to get the best price and value for money. In the final month before departure, your options begin to decrease and prices begin to rise, particularly in the last week before your trip.
You may be able to get a good deal on an empty leg flight at very short notice, but usually, you would have a piece of mind—and your ideal aircraft—if you’d booked earlier.
Book Early for the Best Service from Paramount Business Jets
If you need to fly urgently, do call. Here at Paramount Business Jets, we once managed to arrange a flight in just 42 minutes, but everything was in our favor on that day! We don’t recommend leaving a charter request this late unless it’s unavoidable.
We can also offer better deals if you’re flexible on departure dates. However, the best time to book a private jet charter is as soon as you know your desired travel dates—unless that’s a year away! In that case, pencil a reminder in your diary to book three months before your planned flight date, giving us the time we need to design your ideal trip at the best price.
Ready to book that trip? Then why not request a quote, or contact us to discuss your needs? Our team is waiting to help, so call them on +1-877-727-2538 ext. 1 or email them at charter@paramountbusinessjets.com.
