Towards the end of the year, you might find yourself flooded with offers from various fractional and jet-card companies that tout significant savings and other incentives. My advice? Do not rush into making such an important decision. You don't have to necessarily hold off on making a deal, but you must do your homework. This includes taking the time to thoroughly understand your needs and budget, identifying the best program for you, shopping around, understanding the cost and, of course, reading the fine print. The cost of making the wrong deal will far outweigh any year-end benefits and incentives.
For a more detailed look at year-end deals, download a PDF of my article, "“Year-End Private Jet Deals, Only Fools Rush In" here.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
How Fractional Owners Can Ensure Hassle-Free Holiday Jet Travel
The holiday season is the time of year when many of our fractional-share clients get the most out of their private jet investments. That said, it pays to plan ahead to ensure that your travel is trouble-free and all that you bargained for.
Play the Slots — Some more popular airports have limited landing slots so your provider may require more advance notice for these flights. Work with your provider to give yourself the best chance of averting hassles.
Avoid Peak Travel Days — Many designated “peak travel days” fall on and around holidays. On such days, access to aircraft is more restricted and delays are more common. Whenever possible, schedule flights on nonpeak days. You’re much more likely to avoid a charter and to fly on your preferred schedule.
Take Advantage of Guaranteed Upgrades — Check your contract and if it so permits, consider upgrading to a larger aircraft to accommodate more travelers and extra luggage. Request the upgrade well in advance and avoid peak travel days.
Consider Simultaneous Use — When transporting family from multiple locations, Butler suggests asking your provider for use of two aircraft on the same day. This capability usually is granted to owners of larger shares on larger aircraft, but sometimes can be negotiated on smaller shares.
Say No to Charter — During busy periods, fractional providers rely more than usual on charter aircraft. If you’re averse to flying charter, let your provider know up front and insist that a note to that effect be included with your request. That way, when fleet aircraft are stretched thin, they’ll be more likely to send one to you and pass the charter on to the next guy.
Build a Relationship — Communicate your needs and concerns to your sales rep or a senior manager. He or she has a stake in making sure your trip goes well and so can be an additional voice advocating on your behalf.
Bottom line: An understanding of your contract rights as well as careful planning are essential ingredients in making the most of your jet travel — especially during peak travel periods.
Here are some tips from an article I wrote for Business Jet Traveler on getting the most out of your jet investments during the holidays and other busy travel periods:
Play the Slots — Some more popular airports have limited landing slots so your provider may require more advance notice for these flights. Work with your provider to give yourself the best chance of averting hassles.
Avoid Peak Travel Days — Many designated “peak travel days” fall on and around holidays. On such days, access to aircraft is more restricted and delays are more common. Whenever possible, schedule flights on nonpeak days. You’re much more likely to avoid a charter and to fly on your preferred schedule.
Take Advantage of Guaranteed Upgrades — Check your contract and if it so permits, consider upgrading to a larger aircraft to accommodate more travelers and extra luggage. Request the upgrade well in advance and avoid peak travel days.
Consider Simultaneous Use — When transporting family from multiple locations, Butler suggests asking your provider for use of two aircraft on the same day. This capability usually is granted to owners of larger shares on larger aircraft, but sometimes can be negotiated on smaller shares.
Say No to Charter — During busy periods, fractional providers rely more than usual on charter aircraft. If you’re averse to flying charter, let your provider know up front and insist that a note to that effect be included with your request. That way, when fleet aircraft are stretched thin, they’ll be more likely to send one to you and pass the charter on to the next guy.
Build a Relationship — Communicate your needs and concerns to your sales rep or a senior manager. He or she has a stake in making sure your trip goes well and so can be an additional voice advocating on your behalf.
Bottom line: An understanding of your contract rights as well as careful planning are essential ingredients in making the most of your jet travel — especially during peak travel periods.
For more advice on flying fractional during peak travel seasons, download a PDF of my article, "Beating the Holiday Rush," here.
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