A lot of travel today is done by air. It’s fast, convenient, and relatively affordable. But what if you want to travel on schedule? What if you need to get somewhere quickly and commercial airlines just won’t cut it? That’s where private air charter services come in.
Chartering a private plane is the perfect solution for those who need the flexibility and convenience that only flying private can provide. But before you start your charter service, there are a few things you need to prepare. This guide will give you all the essentials you need to get started in private air travel.
Aircraft
When starting your private air charter service, you first need to acquire an aircraft. You have different options here. You can buy an aircraft outright, lease a plane, or enter into a fractional ownership agreement.
Although an outright purchase is the most expensive option, it gives you the most control over your aircraft. If you’re looking to get started quickly and have the capital to invest, buying an aircraft outright may be the best option.
Leasing an aircraft is a more popular option among charter services. It’s often a more flexible option since you’re not getting tied down to one plane. You can also take advantage of fly-by-the-night deals, saving you money in the long run.
Fractional ownership is another option to consider. In a fractional ownership agreement, you own a share of the aircraft and have access to it for a set number of hours per year. This option gives you all the benefits of owning a plane without the total cost.
Whichever option you choose, make sure you select an aircraft that meets your clients’ needs.
Ground support equipment
Investing in quality ground support equipment is essential for setting up a successful private air charter business. It includes items like aircraft tugs, fueling vehicles, and steps and ladders for accessing the aircraft.
While you may get tempted to cut corners and go without this equipment, it’s essential for ensuring a safe and efficient operation. Aircraft ground support equipment can help you move aircraft around the hangar or ramp area, fuel them quickly and easily, and provide secure access for passengers.
However, ground support equipment might come at a high cost. Suppose you don’t have the funds to make an outright purchase. In that case, an aircraft ground support equipment for rent or lease option may be a better solution for you. What matters most is getting the right equipment to support your business.
Maintenance
Any business owner knows that having the proper equipment is essential for success. This idea is especially true in the aviation industry, where keeping aircraft in top condition is critical for safety. For charter companies, proper maintenance equipment is essential for maintaining a high level of service and ensuring that clients have a positive experience.
Every charter company should have a few critical pieces of equipment on hand:
- A good set of tools is necessary for performing routine maintenance and repairs.
- A reliable parts supply chain is essential for getting the vital components to keep aircraft operational.
- Having access to qualified technicians is critical for ensuring that repairs get done correctly and efficiently.
By investing in the proper maintenance equipment, charter companies can ensure that their aircraft are always safe and ready to fly.
Licenses and Permits
Before launching your charter service, you’ll need to obtain the proper licenses and permits. The first step is to get an air carrier certificate from the FAA. This certificate allows you to operate as a commercial air carrier. Also, you might need to get a business license from your state or local government. This license will enable you to run your business in your area.
In addition to these licenses, you may also need to get insurance for your charter service. It will protect you and your clients in the event of an accident. If you have employees, you may also be required to get workers’ compensation insurance. All these licenses and permits may seem like a lot of work, but they’re essential for running a legal and safe charter service.
Pilot
Of course, you can’t have a charter service without a pilot. The good news is that there are many options for training and certifying pilots. You can find programs at flight schools or online. Many experienced pilots are already certified and looking for work.
When choosing a pilot, it’s essential to consider their experience and training. You’ll also want to make sure they’re certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA has different levels of certification, so you’ll want to choose a pilot who meets your needs. When you’re ready to hire a pilot, check their references and ask for a demo flight.
Now that you know the essentials for starting a private air charter business, you can start planning your operation. You can launch a successful and safe charter service with the proper preparation. From machines, equipment and tools, documentation, and skilled and experienced pilot, make sure you have everything you need to get started. Then, you can begin offering charter services to clients and explore the world of aviation.