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Frequently asked questions
Plain answers about price, booking and what happens on the day. If your question isn't here, add it to a quote request.
Price
How quotes are built and what they include.
What is the cheapest way to fly private?
For one to four people on a trip of under about three hours, a turboprop or light jet booked one way with some flexibility on timing is usually the lowest-cost option. An empty leg that matches your route can go lower still. For larger groups, one bigger aircraft split per person often costs less than two small ones.
Are your quotes all-in?
Yes. Each option shows the aircraft, the operator, the flight time and a total that includes the 7.5% federal excise tax on domestic flights, segment fees, repositioning, crew overnights and landing and handling fees. Costs that depend on the day, such as winter de-icing, are listed with an estimate so nothing arrives as a surprise.
What exactly is an empty leg?
A one-way flight an aircraft has to make anyway, to reach its next passengers or return to base. Operators often sell it at 25 to 75 percent off. The route and time are fixed, and the leg can be cancelled if the original booking changes, so it suits travellers with a backup plan.
Do I need a membership, deposit or account?
No. Requesting a quote is free and carries no obligation. You pay only after you choose an option and sign the charter agreement with the operating carrier's details.
Booking and flying
Operators, aircraft, trips and the day itself.
Who actually operates my flight?
A certificated direct air carrier operating under FAA Part 135, or the foreign equivalent abroad. Cheapest Way to Fly Private is the broker: we find and compare aircraft, and the operator holds operational control of every flight.
Can I bring my dog?
Many operators accept dogs and cats in the cabin, subject to their approval. Note the size and number of pets in your request; some ask for a crate or add a cleaning fee.
How far ahead should I book?
For holidays and big event weekends, as early as you can, because the best-priced aircraft are taken first. Short-notice trips are often possible as well. Availability, not the booking window itself, is what moves the price.
What does an all-in quote leave out?
Things that depend on the day or on your choices: winter de-icing, special catering, Wi-Fi usage on some aircraft, and changes you make after booking, such as an extra stop or a later return. Where a cost is likely, it is listed with an estimate.
Why is a one-way so expensive?
Because the aircraft usually has to fly empty to reach you or to get home afterwards, and that repositioning time is billed. Aircraft based at your destination, aircraft already heading your way and empty legs can all reduce it. How one-way pricing works.
Is a turboprop safe and comfortable?
Turboprops used for charter are pressurised, flown by certificated operators under the same rules as jets, and seat six to nine in leather cabins. They are slower, so they suit trips under about 500 miles, where the time difference is small.
Can I book a multi-city trip?
Yes. Choose Multi-city in the form, enter the first leg, and list the other legs and dates in the notes. Keeping one aircraft for the whole trip is often cheaper than separate one-ways.
Do you arrange international flights?
Yes, worldwide. International trips involve customs and immigration, passports for everyone and fees set by each country, all of which we explain and include in the quote where they are known.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The operator and crew decide whether a flight can operate safely, and their decision is final. If a flight is delayed or cancelled for weather, your advisor works on the next workable option, and the charter agreement sets out how changes are handled.
How do I pay?
Payment terms are set out in the charter agreement you sign before the flight. Nothing is charged for requesting a quote.