First Time Flying Private? Everything You Need to Know
A no-nonsense guide for first-time private jet passengers — what to expect, how to book, what to pack, airport procedures, and tips to make your first flight unforgettable.
So You're Flying Private for the First Time
Congratulations — you're about to discover why people who fly private rarely go back to commercial. This guide covers everything first-timers need to know, without the pretension.
How Booking Works
Booking a private jet is simpler than most people think:
- Tell us your trip details: Departure city, destination, date, number of passengers, and any special requests.
- Get matched with aircraft: Our AI analyzes your route and recommends the best aircraft options, with transparent pricing.
- Confirm your flight: Choose your aircraft, confirm the quote, and you're booked. The entire process takes minutes, not days.
What Happens at the Airport
This is where private aviation feels most different from commercial:
- No terminal queues: You arrive at a private terminal (called an FBO — Fixed Base Operator), not the main airport terminal.
- Arrive 15 minutes before departure: No 2-hour early arrival needed. Pull up, walk in, board.
- Drive to the aircraft: In most cases, you can drive your car right up to the plane, or be driven in a courtesy vehicle.
- No security lines: Private aviation has security screening, but it's done at the FBO and takes minutes, not hours.
- Your luggage goes with you: No checked baggage carousel. Your bags go from your car to the plane's luggage compartment in front of you.
What to Pack
- Luggage: Light jets fit 4-6 bags in the luggage compartment. Heavy jets can accommodate golf bags, skis, and more. Ask about baggage capacity when booking.
- Dress code: There isn't one. Wear whatever you want — business suit, jeans, athleisure. It's your plane.
- Electronics: Bring everything. Most jets have power outlets and Wi-Fi. You can use your phone during the entire flight.
On Board
- Seating: Every seat is a good seat. Most face each other in a club configuration, perfect for conversation or meetings.
- Catering: Basic refreshments (snacks, drinks) are typically included. Premium catering — full meals, specific dietary requests, champagne — can be arranged in advance.
- Wi-Fi: Available on most modern jets. Speed and reliability depend on the aircraft and route.
- Restroom: All but the smallest light jets have a private lavatory.
Pro Tips for First-Timers
- Ask about empty legs: If your dates are flexible, you might find a discounted empty leg flight on your route — savings of 50-75%.
- Bring friends: The cost is per aircraft, not per person. A $15,000 light jet split 6 ways is $2,500 per person — surprisingly competitive with first class.
- Tell your pilot about turbulence: Private jets fly at different altitudes and can often avoid rough air. Your pilot has more flexibility than commercial routes.
- Request a specific aircraft: If you've researched a model you love, ask for it. We can often match specific aircraft requests.
Ready to Book?
VOLO makes booking your first private flight as simple as sending a message. Tell us where you want to go, and our AI will find the perfect aircraft at the best price.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a private jet for the first time?+
Booking a private jet: (1) Choose dates, departure, and destination; (2) Select aircraft size based on passenger count (light jet: 4–7 pax; heavy: 8–14 pax); (3) Request quotes from a charter platform like VOLO or a licensed broker; (4) Review the operator's safety certification (ARGUS, WYVERN, or IS-BAO); (5) Confirm departure via FBO — arrive 15–30 minutes before flight.
What airport do private jets use?+
Private jets use Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) — either at major airports or dedicated general aviation airports. In New York: Teterboro (KTEB) or Westchester (KHPN). In London: Farnborough (EGLF) or Luton (EGGW). FBOs offer private lounges, drive-on ramp access, and security processing in under 10 minutes. Arrive 15–30 minutes before your flight.
Is flying private safe?+
Yes. Business aviation has a strong safety record. Operators certified under FAA Part 135 (US) or EASA (EU) are subject to rigorous maintenance, crew qualification, and operational audits. Safety certifications to verify: ARGUS Platinum, WYVERN Wingman, IS-BAO. VOLO exclusively works with certified operators — every aircraft in our network holds current airworthiness certification.
What should I pack for a private jet flight?+
Private jets have relaxed luggage restrictions — no carry-on size limits; baggage allowance is communicated per charter. Note that light jets have limited cargo holds (100–150 lbs total). Customs and immigration work normally on international flights; VOLO handles all permit and customs filing as part of the booking process. No security screening queues at FBOs.
How early do I need to arrive for a private jet?+
Standard advice: 15–30 minutes before departure. Unlike commercial aviation, private jets wait for you. No security lines, no boarding queues. FBO staff handle luggage at the car. International flights require passport control but FBOs have expedited channels. Build in a 60-minute buffer if connecting from a commercial flight to reach the FBO.
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