While private jet charters can fly to a major airport if that’s the best airport for your destination, they don’t have to. Private jet charters can fly to many regional and smaller airports that may be closer to your destination instead. An exception may be if you’re flying internationally and a major airport is the only one with customs officials available. If that’s the case, your aircraft would have to make a customs stop, but then could continue on to your final destination at the airport of your choice.

The range of a private jet depends on its size. Smaller jets are ideal for short flights, while larger aircraft are better suited for long flights. While it’s possible for a smaller jet to make fuel stops in order to make a longer flight, this lengthens the duration of the flight and may not be possible for a long-haul international flight that crosses an ocean.

Unlike a commercial flight, a private jet charter doesn’t have to stop for layovers. Typically, you can fly directly to your destination without stopping. However, there are exceptions. If your flight is long and the aircraft is not large enough to carry enough fuel for the duration of the flight, fuel stops may be necessary. In addition, if you’re flying internationally, you may need to make a customs stop when you enter the country.

If you are flying internationally, you will have to go through customs, whether you’re flying on a private jet charter or on a commercial flight. Depending on the country, you may have to stop at a specific airport to go through customs before continuing on to your final destination. In some cases, the private jet operator may be able to obtain a permit to bypass that first port of entry and go through customs at your final destination instead.

Wherever you go through customs, you’ll need to declare anything of value that you’re bringing into the country, including cash. There are very few exceptions, such as medical emergencies, that would allow a flight to bypass customs entirely upon arrival. Fortunately, when you fly private, customs is quick and takes typically fifteen minutes or less. In addition, the customs officials will come to you, rather than you having to go to them.

The number of passengers you can have on a private jet charter depends on the size of the aircraft. A light jet, for example, may be able to carry up to 7 passengers, depending on the seat configuration. A mid-size jet can carry up to 9 passengers and a heavy jet can carry up to 18 passengers.

Flying on a private jet charter is faster than flying commercially for multiple reasons. First, when you fly via private jet charter, you don’t have to arrive hours ahead of time at the airport. While there are security checks, there’s no line for it. Additionally, private jet passengers don’t need to arrive hours ahead of time to check in and wait at the gate. With fewer passengers, a private flight boards more quickly as well.

On top of that, once you’re in the air, a private jet charter can fly directly to your destination instead of stopping at an airport that may be in the opposite direction for a layover. Plus, private jets are often able to climb faster than commercial jets and also fly faster, shaving precious time off of your journey.

A benefit of flying on a private jet charter is that you’re flying on your own schedule rather than that of an airline. This means there can be some flexibility with your departure time, even if you’ve booked a charter for a specific time. Typically, there’s a departure window of around two hours. It may be possible to request a longer window if you need it, but only if it won’t interfere with regular operations of the private jet operator.

Many private jet brokers, West Palm Jet Charter included, offer 24/7 concierge services. It’s through the concierge that all details of your flight are managed, from in-flight requests to ground transportation. We pride ourselves on offering the best possible customer service to our clients and will do our best to ensure that their every need is taken care of.

Unlike commercial flights, where your carry-on bags are limited in both size and number and where you may have to pay for checked bags, the only limitation to what you can take with you on a private jet is the luggage capacity of the aircraft. Larger aircraft can hold more bags than smaller aircraft can. For example, a light jet might hold between 5 and 6 pieces of luggage, while a mid-size jet could hold up to 8. The only real restrictions are based on what can fit on the aircraft.

When flying with West Palm Jet Charter, one of the key advantages is the flexibility and convenience of private jet travel, including baggage allowances. However, there are still some limitations on luggage capacity, which vary depending on the aircraft type, passenger count, and specific flight route. Below, we provide a detailed breakdown of luggage limits on private jets and factors that may impact what you can bring on board.

Luggage Capacity by Aircraft Type

The amount of luggage you can bring depends largely on the size and model of the private jet. Here’s a general guideline for different aircraft categories:

• Light Jets (e.g., Citation CJ3, Phenom 300)

  • Ideal for short-haul flights with 4-6 passengers.
  • Limited baggage space—typically accommodates 4-6 small to medium-sized suitcases.
  • Golf clubs or larger items may require special arrangements.

• Midsize Jets (e.g., Hawker 800XP, Learjet 60)

  • Can carry up to 7-9 passengers.
  • Offers more luggage space—typically fits 6-8 medium-sized suitcases.
  • Some models include internal and external baggage compartments for additional storage.

• Super Midsize Jets (e.g., Citation X, Challenger 350)

  • Seats 8-10 passengers with larger baggage compartments.
  • Can accommodate 8-10 medium-to-large suitcases.
  • More flexibility for oversized items like skis or golf bags.

• Heavy Jets (e.g., Gulfstream G450, Bombardier Global 6000)

  • Designed for long-haul travel with up to 12-16 passengers.
  • Spacious luggage compartments can hold 12-20 large suitcases.
  • Ideal for transporting large, bulky, or specialty items.

Factors That Impact Luggage Limits

While private jets offer generous luggage allowances, several factors can influence how much baggage you can bring:

1. Passenger Count – The more passengers on board, the less space available for luggage. If the aircraft is at full capacity, baggage allowances may be reduced.
2. Weight Restrictions – Private jets have strict weight limits for safety reasons. If baggage exceeds the aircraft’s weight capacity, alternative storage solutions may be needed.
3. Shape and Size of Luggage – Some aircraft have smaller cargo doors or restricted baggage compartments. Soft-sided bags are recommended for aircraft with limited storage.
4. Special Items – If you need to transport large equipment (e.g., skis, golf clubs, musical instruments), let us know in advance so we can arrange for an aircraft with suitable storage.

Need More Luggage Space?

If you’re traveling with excess luggage, we can recommend a larger jet or arrange for additional freight services. Our team is happy to assist in finding the best solution for your travel needs.

For personalized baggage recommendations, contact West Palm Jet Charter, and we’ll ensure your luggage is accommodated for a stress-free flight.

Flying with pets on a private jet offers a more comfortable and stress-free experience compared to commercial flights. However, there are still regulations and restrictions that must be followed to ensure compliance with aviation, customs, and health authorities. At West Palm Jet Charter, we make every effort to provide a seamless travel experience for both you and your pet. Below are the key regulations and considerations when flying with pets.

Pet Travel Documentation Requirements

Before flying, it’s essential to check the required documentation for your pet, which varies depending on your destination. Common requirements include:

• Health Certificate: Many countries require a recent veterinary health certificate (typically issued within 10 days of travel) confirming that your pet is in good health and fit for travel.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of rabies vaccination and other required immunizations may be needed, particularly for international flights.
• Microchip Identification: Some destinations, especially in the European Union, require pets to have an ISO-compliant microchip for identification.

Our team can help you confirm the necessary paperwork before your flight to ensure a smooth travel process.

International Pet Travel Regulations

If you’re traveling internationally with a pet, it’s important to be aware of country-specific regulations:

• Quarantine Rules: Some countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, have strict quarantine laws requiring pets to undergo a mandatory quarantine period upon arrival.
• Breed Restrictions: Certain countries restrict or prohibit the entry of specific dog breeds considered dangerous or aggressive.
• Pet Passport Requirements: The EU and some other regions require a pet passport, which includes health records and identification details.

Failing to meet these requirements may result in your pet being denied entry or held in quarantine. Contact our team in advance to ensure full compliance with international pet travel regulations.

Pet Comfort and Safety During Flight

While private jet travel offers a more relaxed experience for pets, there are still some in-flight safety considerations:

• Carrier Requirements: Some flights may require smaller pets to travel in an airline-approved carrier, while larger pets can remain unrestrained in the cabin.
• Sedation Restrictions: Many veterinarians advise against sedating pets for air travel, as it can impact their health at high altitudes.
• Cabin Etiquette: Pets should be well-behaved and comfortable in the cabin environment. If your pet is anxious, bringing familiar bedding or toys can help ease stress.

Book a Pet-Friendly Flight Today

At West Palm Jet Charter, we are committed to providing a pet-friendly travel experience. Contact us before your flight to discuss specific pet requirements and ensure a hassle-free journey for you and your furry companion.