Flying on private jets can be a luxurious and exciting experience, but it is usually reserved for the rich and famous or corporations with deep pockets.
Unless you have the budget of either of these groups, you may think flying on a private jet is an impossibility without breaking the bank.
However, there are multiple ways to fly private without going into debt, including chartering small and midsize jets or renting out larger ones when their owners are not using them.
Here are a few ways you can fly private without breaking the bank.
Arrange A Free Flight Via Contests Or Sweepstakes
Sweepstakes are a great way to fly private. Think of them as online contests or raffles. Instead of drawing winners, sweepstakes have you answer trivia questions or fill out forms and then automatically enter your information for you.
If you win, great! If not, no worries—there is always next time. It is easy to find sweepstakes on sites like Groupon and on news outlets like The Economist and Reader’s Digest. Most will have you complete surveys in exchange for entries.
If you are willing to put in some time filling out questionnaires, it can be an excellent way to get into flying privately without spending money.
Visit Airshows Or Events Where You Can Fly In A Private Jet
If you are a fan of aviation, consider attending airshows and other events where you can fly on private jets. While you probably will not get to take control of the aircraft, you will be able to experience how luxurious it feels flying privately from a first-person perspective (the pilots are often happy to give tips as well).
Remember that renting private jets typically costs thousands of dollars—and if a company owns it, there may be additional fees for transportation, staff and more. Therefore, an airshow can be an excellent opportunity for many people—particularly those who want some idea of what flying on a private jet is like without hurting their financial situation.
Land An Internship At A Private Jet Company
If you want to fly private but do not have the finances to do so, you should consider interning at a company in your industry of choice that offers private travel. While there is no way to afford a private jet as an intern, some companies are often willing to cover your internship expenses (including, potentially, flying on private jets) in exchange for a long-term relationship with you.
By covering your internship costs and helping get work experience under your belt, the company will not only give you incentives to work with them full time but also introduce you to a world of convenience.
Visit Airports With Private Aviation Facilities
If you are looking to fly private, your first step should be to visit airports with private aviation facilities in your area. Airport terminals with private aviation clubs will often have a sign outside their terminal indicating how to contact them.
If they do not, ask airport personnel if they know of any local clubs or facilities nearby that you can tour and speak with privately about their services. Also, check online for member-only airport clubs around your area. Once you have learned more about what memberships might cost, look into chartering a flight through one of these clubs.
Often, there are set pricing charts based on where you live or where you want to go. If you are looking to travel domestically, you are bound to pay less compared to traveling internationally. The cost of travel can also be determined by the type of plane you want to charter. Nonetheless, you are guaranteed to get value for your money.