Year-End Private Jet Deals – Only Fools Rush In

Around this time of year, private jet providers, often pressed to meet sales quotas, begin aggressively marketing year-end promotions that tout significant savings and other incentives. While I don’t think you should hold off on making a deal, my advice is to take your time and do your homework so that you make the best deal:

• Take the time to thoroughly understand your needs and budget.
• Identify the best type of program(s) for you (i.e. jet card, fractional, charter, etc.)
• Shop the various providers for the most competitive offers.
• Understand the cost and, of course, read (and negotiate) the fine print.

After all, the cost of making the wrong deal will far outweigh any year-end benefits and incentives.

For more tips on navigating year-end jet deals, click here for my article, “Year-End Private Jet Deals – Only Fools Rush In.”

How to Ensure Hassle-Free Holiday Jet Travel

With the holidays just around the corner, it pays to plan ahead to ensure that your holiday jet travel is trouble-free and all that you bargained for. Here are some tips:

Play the Slots — Some more popular airports have limited landing slots so your provider may require more advance notice for these flights.

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, ask 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 a fractional owner _ who is 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 information about how to ensure that your holiday jet travel is hassle-free, click here to download my article, "Beating the Holiday Rush."