In the world of long lines, long layovers, skyrocketing airfare prices, and added baggage fees at the commercial airport these days, there are many businesses that are looking into chartering a private jet as a great solution to an increasing problem. Before chartering a private jet, however, it is important to know how does travel by charter flight compare to commercial airliner travel? There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to both travel options.



Price Comparison

Chartering a private jet is more expensive than flying commercial when you compare the fare of individual tickets. In some instances, however, it can actually be cheaper for businesses to use a private charter jet service than to pay for business class or first class seats on a regular commercial airliner. This is especially true if a business needs to ship cargo and send employees to the same destination or if they are going to give a presentation and must take equipment.

When only flying one or two employees without extra baggage, however, choosing a commercial airliner makes economic sense. Commercial flights are typically less expensive than charter jet services -- making them a good choice for businesses on a tight budget.

Scheduling

There is no checking baggage and waiting in long security lines when you are taking a private charter jet. There are no layovers or extra stops. You can go directly from point A to point B. The charter jets can be chartered any time of the day or night to meet your specific needs.

Commercial airliners often have multiple flights throughout the day to various destinations -- especially large metropolitan cities like Boston or Los Angeles -- so it is never difficult to catch a flight to where you need to go. Business travelers flying commercial have to go through the same security lines, baggage check and layovers that their fellow travelers experience, however, which can be seen a an inconvenience. Flights may also not always be scheduled at convenient times for business travel -- forcing employees to be away from the office (and their families) longer.

Convenience And Comfort

Charter flights often have different cabin layouts than a traditional commercial airliner. There are often tables and sitting areas where employees can conduct in-flight meetings or put in a few hours of work. This is especially convenient when flying long distances. The luxury of a private charter jet also works to a business's advantage when courting potential new clients. Business talks can continue in-flight.

Commercial airliners limit passenger movement throughout the cabin of the plane and generally request that you remain in your seat at all times. The savvy business person can accomplish work while flying commercial -- especially if they have first or business class seating.

When choosing between commercial flights and private jet charter it depends on each individual situation. Does your business have a large amount of baggage or equipment to transport? Are you flying many employees at the same time to one destination? Are you trying to impress investors or potential clients? If so, then chartering a private jet may be the way to go. If your business simply needs to fly a couple of employees to a conference, however, then choosing a commercial flight will be better on your bottom line.