Convenience, productivity, safety and security are key reasons why individuals and companies choose on-demand air travel for personal and business travel. Air charter flights operate on the passenger’s schedule, allowing considerable flexibility. With the ability to fly in and out of more than 5,000 public use airports in the United States – more than 100 times that of the airlines – air charter provides convenient access to your destination. And air charter is a safe mode of transportation.

Even with all the benefits air charter provides, it is also true that not all air charter operators will meet your specific wants and needs. You must become an educated air charter consumer. A general understanding of what questions to ask and what answers to expect will assist you in your effort to choose a safe and reputable charter operator – one that will provide the aircraft and service level you require and deserve.

In the realm of charter aircraft, one size does not fit all. There have been more than 300 business aircraft makes and models certificated by the FAA, many of which can be used for charter flights. Knowing your mission will help ensure you arrange the right fit for your air travel needs.

Following are some key points you will need to know before arranging a charter flight:

• What is the point of origin?
• What is the destination?
• How many passengers will be traveling?
• Are there other locations, such as interim stops, planned during the trip?
• Are your dates/times for travel firm or do you require flexibility?
• Do you need the aircraft to fly non-stop on all legs of the trip?
• Do you have aircraft cabin preferences or requirements? For example:
  In-flight telephone/Internet
  Conference table for an in-flight meeting
  Non-stop capability
  Sleeping capabilities
  Lavatory
• Do you have any special needs/requirements? For example:
  Preference for propeller or jet aircraft
  Flight attendant services to perform safety and service functions
  Baggage and/or cargo capacity
  Meal service
  Accommodation of passengers with disabilities and/or allergies