Your comprehensive guide to private air charter with ELEVATE

For newcomers: Discover the unparalleled experience of private air travel

Chartering a private plane for the first time can be an exciting and equally intimidating experience. At ELEVATE we’ve built our name on demystifying the entire process and by taking the time to work with you.

Private Jet Charter Services

Let ELEVATE tailor private air transportation that meets your needs and budget. Our private jet charter services are highly personalized based on your preferences. You choose the airports on your schedule on the plane designed for your personal comfort.

Flying privately not only gives you and your guests comfort but privacy and safety, too. You can travel knowing that you’re safe from airborne illnesses that may be common on commercial flights when seated in closer proximity to strangers.

Chartering a private jet can be the perfect solution to avoid the chaos of commercial air travel. You’ll skip the long lines, avoid delays on the tarmac, and set your own departure time. Private air transportation gives you your valuable time back.

Whether you're travelling for business or pleasure, we’ll get you to your destination with our bespoke private air charter. If you’re a frequent business traveler, flying by private jet charter will allow you to work in private or even hold meetings while in the air. You’re in control of when you take off and who’s on board.

Want to relax? Start your vacation before you arrive. Chartering a private jet for a vacation allows you to land in hard-to-reach destinations, allowing you to see the exclusive side of the world. You can make trips happen more often thanks to the flexibility of a private jet charter, and your favorite furry friend can travel in the cabin right next to you, too!

Are you ready to take your travel experience to a whole new level? Trust ELEVATE to take you where you need to go. We have over 25 years of aviation and customer service know-how to make your first or next private air charter a seamless experience. Answer a few questions here and let our expertise go to work for you. Are you new to the world of private air charter? Explore our many resources and discover how chartering private air travel will upgrade your life by giving you control over your flights.

Contact us here to schedule your next trip. Or explore our FAQ below to learn all about private air travel and chartering a private plane for the first time.

Frequently asked questions about private air travel

Safety: Our top priority

Safety is paramount in private aviation. ELEVATE adheres to rigorous standards as an ARGUS aviation business. Chartered aircraft meet all government regulations, and our independent oversight process ensures your confidence in our service. And for maximum safety, we require two pilots. Delve deeper here.

• Did you know? Private aircraft are owned by individuals and corporations that spend millions of dollars to have a safe, clean cabin environment when they travel. You benefit from this experience when chartering these planes by the hour.

• We have written an entire page on the subject of safety. Please find it here.

Private charter vs commercial air travel

With a private charter, you're not just booking a seat but the entire aircraft for your exclusive use. This means personalized service, privacy, and flexibility, whether you're flying solo or with a group. Learn more about this unique experience here.

• Did you know? You pay the same price for the plane whether you are booking for one person, or filling all of the seats

Efficiency redefined: Private air charter saves time and reduces stress

Escape the hassles of commercial air travel with private charter. Imagine bypassing crowded terminals, skipping long security lines, and avoiding layovers. Private charters offer direct flights from convenient local airports, ensuring a swift, seamless journey. Discover more about these time-saving benefits.

• Did you know? Smaller airports: With a private air charter you can fly from places that are more convenient and often closer to where you live. Faster planes: Many private jets fly higher and faster than many airliners, making for a more comfortable ride and saving you time.

Understanding the cost of private air charter

Chartering a private plane with ELEVATE is an investment in a customized, luxurious experience. For detailed insights into pricing and customizing your journey within your budget, visit our guide on private air charter costs.

• Did you know? What's included in the price: Our charter flight pricing is straightforward and all-inclusive, covering aircraft and crew hourly rates, fuel, insurance, airport fees, and all applicable taxes and fees. Winter operations can add costs like de-icing or hangar fees. We believe in transparency, with no hidden surprises.

For a more detailed backrounder, read our article on private charter pricing, If you are ready to plan your trip request a quote.

Payment methods for your convenience

We accept a variety of payment methods for your ease, including bank wire, ACH, and major credit cards. Credit cards are subject to a processing fee, and short-notice bookings may require credit card payments.

Carbon offset: Making eco-friendly choices

Concerned about your carbon footprint? We've got you covered. Contact us to learn more about our carbon offset options and how you can fly more sustainably.

Arrival and boarding procedures: The private way

Experience the convenience of driving right up to your aircraft or relaxing in a private lounge before boarding. Private flights typically operate from exclusive facilities, making your journey smooth and hassle-free.

Flexible scheduling for your convenience

Enjoy the flexibility of setting your departure time. We recommend discussing your preferred schedule during booking to ensure the best experience, especially during peak travel periods.

• Did you know? Private jets can operate into most airports, but like to avoid the busier commercial airports for maximum efficiency.

Private jet cabins: A class apart

Private jet cabins, designed for comfort and luxury, offer a different experience compared to commercial airliners. Enjoy spacious seating arrangements, larger tables, and amenities like Wi-Fi and entertainment.

• Did you know? The typical private aircraft cabin may be smaller but will actually feel roomier when compared to a commercial jetliner cabin, given the absence of strangers and unique seating layout. Seats on private aircraft are typically arranged in a “club style” layout with groups of facing seats on either side of the aisle.

• Cabin seating is flexible depending on whether you want to work, relax, eat, or visit with others. Most seats have generously sized and sturdy fold out tables many times larger than an airline tray table. Newer or refurbished aircraft types will also feature amenities such as Wi-Fi, power outlets, and entertainment. See examples of our cabin interiors in our Aircraft Guide.

Please find examples of cabin interiors in our aircraft guide.

Choosing the right private aircraft for your needs

Selecting the right aircraft depends on your travel needs, from turboprops for short trips to ultra-long-range jets for international journeys. Our Aircraft selection guide helps you choose the perfect jet for your travel requirements. And we are always here to demystify the fleet so you can be confident you are booking the right plane without overpaying for what you don't need.

Did you know?

• A turboprop is the perfect solution for flights of up to an hour or two. It is particularly nimble at getting into smaller airports with short runways under 4,000-4,500 feet in length.

• A very light jet is similar in size to a turboprop, and has some of the economic advantages of the latter coupled with the speed advantage of many light jets.

• A light jet, will typically seat up to 7 people. As a smaller aircraft you won’t be able to stand upright in the cabin, however they are adequate for shorter trips up to a few hours’ duration.

• A midsize jet is a good choice for flights around 3-hours in duration, and will allow most people to stand, socialize, and move about the cabin.

• Super-mid, large cabin/heavy jet, and even ultra-long-range jet feature wider and taller cabins with larger galleys and array of onboard entertainment and other amenities suited for longer trips, including trans-continental journeys of over four hours.

Find all the answers in our aircraft guide.

Onboard amenities and dining

Personalize your journey with optional catered meals and enjoy a range of complimentary onboard beverages and snacks. Alcoholic beverages are normally included depending on the size of the aircraft and storage space.

• Did you know? In North America, a catered meal is optional, and we can arrange just about anything for your trip. You may also bring food with you.

Understanding cabin crew and lavatory facilities

Cabin attendants are typically included in larger aircraft charters on board heavy jets and ultra-long-range jets, particularly for trips of longer distances. Smaller jets may not offer this service. Most private aircraft feature lavatories, ensuring your comfort throughout the journey. The presence of a lavatory is noted in our Aircraft Guide.

Altitude: The private jet advantage

Private jets commonly cruise at higher altitudes than commercial flights, offering a smoother ride above all of the weather.

• Did you know? While most commercial jet airliners cruise between 30,000-39,000 feet, most private jets cruise at higher altitudes, commonly above 40,000 feet, and some can even reach 51,000 feet. But what does this really mean to you? Since most weather systems top out at 39,000 feet, your ride experience will typically be smoother, even if you are flying on a small private jet. These higher altitudes also translate into greater fuel-efficiencies and direct routings, saving you time.

Baggage: How much can I bring?

The baggage allowance on private jets varies depending on the jet size. Small jets usually allow for one or two suitcases and a couple of smaller personal items per passenger, with some even accommodating sports equipment. Larger aircraft have more spacious baggage holds, accessible during flight. Always check with us for specific baggage capacity as per your selected aircraft, detailed in our Aircraft Guide.

Pet-friendly private jet travel: Can I bring my pets or service animal?

Absolutely! Most of our aircraft are pet-friendly, and in many cases, your pets can roam freely instead of staying confined to a carrier. Some aircraft might have an additional cleaning fee post-flight, which we will disclose during the booking process.

Pilot gratuity: Should I tip?

Tipping pilots is a personal choice and is always appreciated but not expected. If you decide to tip, a meaningful amount starting at $100 per pilot is recommended.

Timeliness for Private Jet Departures: What You Need to Know

For a seamless private flight experience, we recommend arriving up to 20 minutes before departure. This ensures timely baggage handling and aircraft preparation by your flight crew. If you're running late, please let us know. Quick communication helps us manage schedules and crew readiness effectively, and can alleviate unncessary late fees.

Endless destinations: Where can I travel with a private jet?

The sky's the limit when it comes to private jet destinations. The question is more, "where can't I travel on a private jet?" since a private aircraft charter gives you the flexibility to reach just about anywhere as long as there is an airport (or heliport).

Why choose ELEVATE?

Choosing to ELEVATE your next private air charter means opting for a team with deep aviation knowledge, with unparalleled industry expertise. We provide a level of understanding and detail that transcends basic charter arrangements. Learn more about our unique approach and why ELEVATE stands out in the private air charter industry.