Private jets have been in short supply lately. As with many industries, the private jet charter industry experiences its share of peak demand periods. But in the last couple of years, demand for private charter options has remained relatively high, causing supply to stay relatively low. For those who are trying to book a private jet, especially those who are flying private for the very first time, finding a reliable charter option can seem like a daunting task.
Why Is There a Private Jet Shortage?
The pandemic is a big part of what’s driving the private jet supply shortage. More travelers are seeking alternatives to traditional air travel as a way to avoid crowded airports, unreliable flight schedules, and unpredictable experiences. While private jets have certainly stepped up as an overall better option, the increase in popularity means there simply aren’t enough aircraft to keep pace with demand.
In addition to the pandemic, a few other key factors are pushing the private jet shortage ever skyward.
First up, there’s the return of business travel. More companies are bringing their people back to the office and returning to in-person meetings and other pre-pandemic practices. As more companies are reinstating corporate travel, private jets will continue to be in high demand.
There’s also the ongoing relaxation on travel bans. With more countries reopening their borders, more travelers are prioritizing the trips they spent precious time planning during the pandemic.
And last but not least, the disrupted supply chain continues to play a factor. Lags in production and shipping times can cause more private jets to remain grounded while they await necessary maintenance. Also in short supply are people resources – crew members, maintenance personnel, and catering employees, to name a few.
How to Book a Private Jet Despite the Shortage
Combined, these factors create a number of challenges for anyone trying to book a private jet charter – to the point where you might feel inclined to accept any availability. But at Access Jet Group, we advise against doing so. Doing your due diligence when it comes to pricing and choosing the right operator will always be of the utmost importance, even during a supply shortage.
In fact, the Access Jet Group team believes it’s never been more essential to be discerning in how you book your private flight. Doing so allows you to understand what you’re paying for and feel confident throughout your experience.
That said, what questions should you ask? How can you do your homework to get the right-sized aircraft at the best rates and availability?
Here are some considerations to inform your search for a private jet charter:
- Does the private jet broker conduct extensive audits on its operator partners regarding aircraft safety, maintenance, and crew experience?
- How many crew members will be included in your flight (e.g., number of pilots, cabin crew, etc.)?
- Does the operator have experience flying to your destination country/countries and are they legally allowed to operate there?
- What safety certifications does the operator have? ARGUS, WYVERN, and IS-BAO are among the top internationally recognized certifications for private operators.
- What can you learn from previous clients’ experiences with a broker or operator? Are these experiences fairly consistent in terms of customer service, attentiveness, and ease of travel?
Supply shortages can cause even the most patient travelers to take the first option they find for fear they won’t have other opportunities. But doing so may cause you to overlook critical details like safety history and a track record of customer satisfaction, both of which can affect your overall travel experience and peace of mind.
At Access Jet Group, we’re helping our clients navigate the supply shortage challenges by simplifying your due diligence process. Our network of more than 7,000 aircraft and operators have been thoroughly vetted, and we continue to monitor their performance on an ongoing basis to ensure your safety and satisfaction. Our large network allows us to find the best-fit aircraft based on your size requirements, budget, and desired travel timeline without compromising safety and the overall experience.
Contact us today for pricing and availability.
