Is it too soon to start booking Ski Trips?

It's only August, and many people are yet to jet off on their summer holidays - But interest in ski trips for the 2018/19 season is already on the increase. So when is the best time of year to book a ski holiday? 

As with almost all travel, the sooner you get things booked, the better! Whilst the demand is still relatively low, prices are yet to be increased so you're far more likely to get the best possible availability and prices. Ski destinations are always extremely busy throughout the season, so booking something too last minute can leave you disappointed - as well as prices being much higher due to the high demand. 

Private jets are very popular for ski holidays, and you can read more about why Here. When travelling to the Alps for a skiing trip, the most popular airports for private jet charter include Chambery, Samedan, Courchevel, Sion and Geneva, several of which are also used for commercial flights - so it's easy to imagine how busy these airports become during the winter months. 

Whilst private jets are far more flexible than commercial flights, and you are able to book these at much shorter notice, getting your travel sorted early still has its benefits! When flying by private jet into or out of a busy airport, your private jet requires a slot to take off or land, as well as space on the ground for the aircraft to park. As the ski season gets closer, operators of private jets may also start to increase their pricing due to higher demand for their aircraft. 

If you're planning a luxury ski holiday, have a chat with us to discuss your travel requirements and let us tailor a schedule to suit you. Booking early will ensure you have the best pick of availability at the best prices! Give us a call on +44 (0) 161 529 7470 or click below to talk to one of our charter experts about your trip.

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Jet Set Lifestyle | Champneys Forest Mere

A secluded lakeside resort, Champneys Forest Mere offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the South Downs. Whether it's a spa day or a weekend break, this comtemporary yet classic manor house is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. 

Approaching the resort already fills you with a sense of serenity, as you drive up a winding driveway and are greeted by sweeping views of the lake, with the building tucked behind amongst the woodland.  The fundamentals of your whole Champneys experience are based around holistic wellbieng, which is why you'll immediately be greeted with a hand-crafted welcome drink  to begin your detox and relaxation process from within.

All stays (day and overnight) allow you unrestricted access to the hotel's facilities, including the gym, fitness classes and the famous pool and spa area. There are also guided resort walks so you can explore some of the 160 acres of woodland and meadows in the surrounding area of outstanding natural beauty. There are also a multitude of beauty treatments, from massages through to facials 

After being equipped with a one of the famous Champneys robes and flip flops, you'll not want to waste any time in getting over to the spa. The changing rooms alone are plush and luxurious, complete with a separate sauna, steam room  and relaxation area before you even make it through to the poolside. These lead through to the magnificent pool area, which sits under huge windows and a glass panelled ceiling which floods the space with natural light. Spend a few hours on the  heated water beds in between swims, either poolside or in the lounge that also boasts suspended pods and an electric fire.

The thermal poolside suite is what really sets Champney's apart from any other spa and health club. Complete with a jacuzzi, steam room, laconium, experience showers, and a snow room. The laconium is perfect for people who don't enjoy the intense heat in a sauna, as the heat radiates evenly from the stone walls and benches, and the temperature sits a little lower. The recommendation is that you cycle between the different temperatures, and really allow your body to benefit from the sensations in order to relax - and moving between hot and cold environments helps to stimulate your circulation and improve oxygen intake. Outdoors is a heated bath with jets, which is fantastic even during the winter months. 

The entire resort has been meticulously designed to offer a wholesome experience to cater for your mind and body. The bedrooms are light and spacious yet extremely cosy, and everywhere you go reflects the same bright and airy feel whilst also feeling instantly like home. And, as you'd epxpect, the bathroom is well stocked with Champney's own toiletries for your stay. 

Champney's ethos is all about health, which starts from the inside, so the resturant menus are bursting with high quality, nutritious foods throughout the day - from smoothies to fresh fish and perfectly grilled vegetables. There are several different restaurants and lounges, offering a multitidue of choice whether you'd like a buffet lunch or just a coffee whilst you look out over the lake from the orangery. 

Where Champney's is set in the heart of the South Downs national park, it's beautifully rural. Arrive by road, or if you're coming from further afield in the UK, Champney's have the option to land on site in a helicopter. The closest private jet airport is London Farnborough, and we can arrange a transfer by helicopter (or road) from here directly into the resort. 

For more information, visit www.champneys.com, or call the resort directly on 01428 726000. If you would like us to look into your travel arrangements, click below to get in  touch with one of our experts.

Cost Saving for Private Jet Travel

Private Jet charter is perceived as a high-end, luxury travel solution. There's no doubt it can be, but it's also a smart way to save huge amounts of time for important travel. IT doesn't have to be as expensive as it can be, and there are several ways we can work with you to keep the costs down.

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Pick the right airports

Landing fees vary between airports, and quite often there is a suitable airport very nearby that can save you well over £1000. We'll always work with you on this, and let you know if there is a cheaper alternative close by to where you've requested. 

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Don't get a bigger aircraft than you need

This one is down to personal preference, as many clients choose to charter an aircraft with more seats than their group size for extra room. Obviously, a larger aircraft will usually cost more to charter than a smaller one - so if you have a budget to hit then use the smallest aircraft available! An added benefit is that smaller aircraft may be able to fly into a smaller airport that's closer to your destination, potentially saving you more in airport fees. 

Flying in a group can also bring the cost per head down dramatically compared to flying alone, as you pay for the entire aircraft regardless of how full it is. 

work with us

As a broker, we'll always endeavour to find you the best possible prices. This includes proposing aircraft with minimal (or ideally no) repositioning, as this can very quickly drive up the cost. Our systems allow us to see where aircraft are on the ground in real time, which is especially handy for last minute flights where aircraft may not be at their home base but still available for charter. 

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Empty Legs

Private jet empty legs can save you up to 75% off normal jet charter prices, so it's always worth exploring if there are any that might fit with your scheduled route. Note that they come with certain conditions so it's important to be aware of these when you book, and have a backup lined up if travel is essential!

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lose the Extras

Although not always possible, occasionally there is a way to mitigate certain costs. If you really don't want/need catering, it may be a possibility to negotiate a reduction in price where VIP catering has been included (but this isn't always possible). If you're flying in the winter, there is also the possibility to organise a de-icing waiver so you're not hit with a big bill after your flight if your private jet needed to be de-iced in order to fly. 

Whatever your reason for flying, we would be delighted to help you organise your trip. We'll always ensure to make sure we send you the best possible prices anyway, but if you're on a tight budget let us know. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005.

Ultimate VVIP Dreamliner now available for Charter

What is believed to be the biggest private jet in the world is now available to charter for flights of up to 17.5 hours in duration! The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is believed to be the biggest private jet in the world - and is unlike any other jet in the world. 

The aircraft took a full 2.5 years to design and complete to the highest of standards. The cabin is pressurised to 6000ft (though the aircraft will usually fly around 30,000ft) to minimise the effects of flying on the body like fatigue and dehydration, and utilises the highest quality air filtering systems. 

The private master suite contains a super king sized bed, a spacious en suite bathroom with a large walk-in shower, and dressing area. This leads through to a large lounge and dining room with space for up to 16 passengers at two full sized dining tables - and seats that convert into even more flat beds. Guests can enjoy the seven star butler service and being catered for by an on-board chef for the full duration of their flight.

At the rear of the cabin, you'll find a further 18 business class seats so there's plenty of room for the entourage accompanying the VIPs. The Boeing 787 spans 2400 square feet and will carry almost 350 passengers at airline configuration. It has a maximum range of over 15,500km of non-stop flying, so even flying from London to Western Australia can be achieved in one single flight. The cabin has been optimally designed to cancel noise from the engines and minimise turbulence, so you're guaranteed a smoother flight wherever you go. 

Absolutely perfect for longer flights where you can be catered for to royal standards, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner can now be chartered to your own bespoke schedule. Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. Get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005.

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Why use Commercial Jet Charter?

There's a common misconception that the large commercial planes are only used by big airlines. This is far from the case, and there are actually smaller alternatives available. Commercial aircraft charter is the perfect way to move a large group of people together, and can be much more convenient than booking multiple airline seats.

A commercial aircraft is classed as an aircraft that seats more than 19 passengers, so is the perfect option for when your group size exceeds the capacity of a private jet. 

It's a common misconception that commercial jet charter is as luxurious (and as expensive) as private jet charter, but that absolutely does not have to be the case. Commercial jets exist in varying cabin classes, from economy right through to VIP - or even a split cabin with a combination of business and economy seats, so you can have the most appropriate aircraft for your needs and budget. We work with a number of airlines to offer jets with anything from 20 to 500 seats, so you can be sure that 

If you have  a large group of people, chartering an aircraft can actually be more cost effective and is definitely far less hassle than booking 20+ airline seats - where availability is very often limited and pricing can be hugely variable. Combine this with then adding costs for catering and checked baggage for each passenger, and suddenly it's a logistical nightmare! When booking a chartered commercial aircraft, your price is inclusive of a comprehensive service, baggage space for all passengers, guranteed seating for everyone on the same flight, and all scheduled to an itinerary that suits you (instead of being at the mercy of when the airline flights are). 

Commercial aircraft charter is extremely popular with sports teams, but it's perfect for company incentive trips, destination weddings, fan travel to away sports games, or just a large group of people wanting to go on holiday together! 

What really sets this apart from standard airline travel is that we can work with you to offer a fully branded service - with customised check-in desks, headrest covers and even vinyl stickers on your aircraft,  for a bespoke and personalised experience throughout your flight and creating a brilliant atmosphere amongst your passengers. 

If you have a group of 15+ people who need to travel together, why not find out how commercial charter can transform your travel experience? Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005. Alternatively, click below to submit a request for a no obligation quote and see how we can help you!

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

What Food can be Served on a Private Jet?

It's not unusual on a private jet flight for the pilot or crew to cater to your exact needs when it comes to food. we frequently receive a wide range of questions when it comes to catering for private jet charter - today we'll answer the most common!

VIP Catering is provided as standard

The nature of your food will be tailored to the time of day and length of your flight. This could include a selection of cold meats, a tray of sandwiches or a fruit platter for a shorter flight on a small jet. Longer flights tend to take place on a larger aircraft, which will usually have the capability to serve hot food - and you're able to request this in advance. 

Corporate airliners, long range jets and some medium jets will have a flight attendant on board to serve your food and drinks throughout the flight. Smaller executive private jets will usually have catering laid out for passengers to help themselves to, but if you would prefer to have a flight attendant with you in the air, we are able to arrange this for you on any aircraft. 

Special requests 

Anything is possible! Many clients like to have food of their choice on board, and we will make every effort to arrange this - subject to availability and suitability for the aircraft. Some passengers may request lavish menus, but it might be surprising to hear that many of our requests are for incredibly simple dishes.

There are catering providers at each Fixed Base Operator (FBO) that will prepare your requested food and ensure it is on the aircraft for your flight. Each passenger is able to order their own food, even if it is completely different from the next. Private jet travel is tailored to you and your needs, and it is not unreasonable to request something completely different for each member of your party. This is often the case if parties are travelling with children, who may prefer to eat something as simple as turkey dinosaurs whilst the adults can indulge with their meal choice!

Some of our most common food requests for private jet catering include sushi, pizza, cured meat platters, sandwiches and pastries. You can see there is no upper or lower limit to the complexity of your tailored menu. That being said, if you fancy food from a particular retailer - such as Nando's - we are usually able to arrange this for you and have it delivered fresh to the aircraft in time for takeoff. Sometimes, you choose private jet hire for a special occasion. Items such as flowers or birthday cake on board can absolutely be organised - just let us know. Extra catering will usually involve an extra cost, but this will be included in your overall charter quote (read more about how much private jet charter really costs here). 

Drinks on Board

There will always be tea, coffee and soft drinks available on any flight, regardless of duration or the time of day. Alcohol is also served on most flights, although this is not possible in certain circumstances within the Middle East. Drinks such as champagne are available as standard on many aircraft, but can be arranged for any flight if this is requested beforehand. 

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Whatever your reason for flying , we would love to help you organise your trip

Get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts today and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Which London Airport is best for private jet flights?

Being a huge magnet for global air traffic, london has an impressive selection of airports available to private and commercial aircraft. but which airports are the best to use when flying by private jet?

To view the full list of airports in London and the surrounding area click here. This post will focus on the most popular London airports!

London Heathrow Airport

Well known as one of the busiest airports in the world, London Heathrow may seem like an obvious choice for many private jet passengers. The FBO facilities are high quality, and the airport has excellent transport links for onward journeys. However, its popularity comes at a price! Landing fees at Heathrow are pricey, so the landing fees can potentially double your total charter cost. In addition to this, slots are less readily available due to the large numbers of flights leaving and entering the airport. 

London Gatwick Airport

Situated just south of the M25, Gatwick can be a straighforward alternative to Heathrow and is very popular for commercial flights. It does also have similar drawbacks to Heathrow, as the landing fees are almost just as expensive.

Biggin Hill Airport

Biggin Hill is a mere 30 minute drive from London Gatwick, and offers a more suitable alternative for private jet charter flights. It boasts two FBOs (private jet passenger terminals) and is also closer to central London! Landing fees and hangar facilities are far less expensive, so Biggin Hill can offer a more cost-effective solution as a London airport. 

London City Airport

London City is naturally a great choice when flying into London due to it being situated just a few miles from Canary Wharf. It comes with some limitations (due to being so close to the city centre!), as a much steeper approach profile is required, meaning that only certain aircraft with suitably trained pilots are able to land here. This limits the number of aircraft we can offer into London City, but this doesn't necessarily need to be a limitation on your trip. London City is incredibly popular for private jet flights, especially for our business clients. 

London Luton Airport

London Luton is one of the most popular UK airports for private jet flights. This is mainly down to it having lower costs than the other private jet orientated airports. London Luton Airport offers great transfer times into central London while being just outside of the premium zone, meaning airport landing and handling fees are lower than the likes of London City or Farnborough Airport.

Farnborough Airport

Farnborough is the UK's only fully dedicated private jet airport - so no commercial flights arrive or depart from here at all. It is the airport of choice for most private jet customers in the south of England, due to its exclusivity, privacy and proximity to London as it's just a short trip down the M3. Although landing and handling fees can be a little higher than the likes of Luton, Farnborough still offers a cheaper alternative to Gatwick and Heathrow with the added bonus of the exclusive and highest quality passenger facilities. 

As mentioned, this is not an exhaustive list of airports available to private jet charter clients in the London area. When requesting a quote with us, we are able to recommend the most suitable airport for your needs and location. Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. Get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005.

Formula 1 Races by Private Jet

Taking a private jet to the formula one is an experience in itself. Not only that, you can travel to your own time schedule. We arrange private flights for our clients to all races, though some are more popular than others. When chartering a private jet for an F1 race, you're able to arrive and leave exactly when you like, whether you're there to enjoy the whole weekend or just race day. 

We work with a number of partners to offer race weekend packages, including private jet transfers and race entry. From trackside to viewing from a yacht at Monaco and Abu Dhabi, the choice is yours. View our detailed pages on the F1 races and transport options here. 

Monaco Grand Prix by private jet

The French riviera is renowned for it's jet set lifestyle and the Monaco Grand Prix only add to it. With the majority of this race taking place along side the marina, it's only fitting that is should be watched from a yacht. Each year hundreds of yachts are squeezed into the marina, with a perfect view of the race track. Sun drenched and champagne in hand, this is naturally the way most of our clients choose to experience the Monaco Grand Prix.

LONDON - NICE | CITATION CJ2  | 8 PASSENGERS | £14,300

This option is perfect for medium sized groups. This aircraft is fast and offers great seating capacity for a Light Jet.Flight time in this aircraft is around 1 hour 50 minutes.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix by private jet

The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the last race of the season, this is where it all ends. Battles won, and lost. You could be there to see it all unfold in front of your eyes. Every year our clients jet in from all over the world into Abu Dhabi to watch the season's grand finale. Take a private jet and be back in the office Monday morning. 

LONDON - ABU DHABI | DASSAULT FALCON 2000EX | 10 PASSENGERS | £58,000 

The Dassault Falcon is perfect for trips of this length, a long range private jet with impressive cabin space make this jet very popular for trips of to Abu Dhabi and Dubai.  

Monaco and Abu Dhabi are usually our most popular events for private jets and helicopters, but we are able to organise full packages or transport alone to any Grand Prix event - or all of them if you wish! We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you on: +44(0) 203 880 9005.

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Missed your Scheduled Flight? How Quickly can you get a Private Jet?

One of the beauties of private jet charter is that there are no fixed schedules, and it's totally possible to book a flight at the very last minute. Circumstances depending, we can usually have you airborne in just a few hours. 

If you've missed your scheduled flight and have somewhere you need to be urgently, booking a private jet can be the best way to go. Commercial airlines only run a fixed number of flights per day, so the next one going to your destination may not get you there in time. Not to mention that availability is limited on commercial flights, especially during busy periods. 

A private jet can get you to where you need to be, fast. When we receive an urgent request for a flight, our first stop is to see if there are any private jets already at your departure airport, since this eliminates the need for an aircraft reposition and gets you airborne sooner. If there are none on the ground, we'll look at nearby airports with the shortest possible repositioning time. Minimising repositioning can also help keep costs down. 

Every urgent request we get (we class within 24 hours as urgent), our priority is making everything happen as fast as possible. During the private jet booking process, there are several steps that can slow the process down, and we manage each of them effectively. 

• Operator approval, which we wait for after we've sent off a request to confirm availability and the price. We'll always let the operator know that the process is urgent.
• Crew. This is a minor one, but they are always necessary to fly! They'll need to be sourced and make their way to the airport, but often they are already nearby.
• Repositioning. If your aircraft isn't already on the ground at your departure airport, there is a waiting period whilst your private jet flies in to collect you.
• Payment. This is usually the longest wait, as payments can take a while to clear. We'll always do our best to make sure that it has a minimal impact on getting you in the air. 

So, factors depending, you can be airborne in as little as two hours if you need to fly urgently. Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so last minute requests can be processed at any hour. Get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005.

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Dassault Announces the Falcon 6X

After the cancellation of the 5x development program last year, Dassault have unveiled their new falcon 6X - which is set to be the most advanced, versatile and spacious business jet in its category. 

It's set to be a game-changer. Dassault Aviation have chosen Pratt & Whitney Canada Pure Power PW812D engines to power their brand new jet, which has allowed for the marked improvements in both speed and range over the Falcon 5X. The new 6X will also boast a super efficient wing that helps to minimise turbulence, as well as flaperons - a wing feature which will help to stabilise the aircraft on steep approaches. 

Technical spec aside, what will really set this aircraft apart from any other jet in its category is the one-of-a-kind cabin. It will measure 6 feet 6 inches (1.98m) high and 8 feet 6 inches (2.58m) wide, giving the largest cross section for a purpose built private jet. With it being almost 40 feet 8 inches (12.3m), all 16 passengers will have plenty of space split between three distinct lounge areas. There is room for many different cabin configurations which can be customised to your needs. The Falcon 6X will also contain the first galley skylight, which will fill the cabin with even more natural light than the 29 extra large windows would alone. 

What's unique here is that Dassault designed this business jet from the cabin outwards, listening to clients who said that they wanted more space inside - which has resulted in a passenger-centred jet which delivers exceptionally high performance across all areas. Dassault Aviation chairman and CEO has promised a jet with the "quietest and most comfortable cabin" of any aircraft in its category. With a top speed of 0.9 mach and a range of 5500 nautical miles - it can fly you further than any other super mid-sized jet, which really brings it in to  a whole new class of its own.   

The brand new private jet will make its first flight in 2021, and begin deliveries in 2022. Subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to hear about any updates and when it will be available to charter!

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Private Jet from London to Dubai

Dubai is becoming the new go-to destination for business and pleasure alike. The rapidly growing city now has two airports, and its popularity is still on the rise. 

There are two airports to choose from when flying into the city - Dubai International and Dubai World Central. Although Dubai World Central is further from the city centre than Dubai International, the journey time is often the same as traffic can be heavy when leaving the very busy International airport. 

Whether you're going for a luxury holiday in the sun, or are on a business trip, private jet passengers are extremely well catered for. Benefit from reduced flight times and beat jet lag when you travel across multiple time zones by private jet, both of which will enable you to bounce back faster and make the most of all time available to you in Dubai. 

Legacy 500

Offering excellent prices for a luxurious private jet, it's the best way to fly to Dubai in true VIP style.

London to Dubai | 3 day return | Legacy 500 | £51,198

Citation X

One of the fastest passenger aircraft in the world; this will get you from London to Dubai in under 6 hours. 

London to Dubai | 3 day return | Citation X | £58,320

Global 6000

With space for up to 14 passengers, the Global 6000 has a huge luxurious cabin space that's highly customisable.

London to DUbai | 3 Day Return | Global 6000 | £86,300

Whichever private jet you choose to travel to Dubai, you can be assured you'll get an unrivalled service from us. From enquiry right through until after your trip, we'll take care of every detail to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible. 

Private Jet empty legs from London to Dubai

Empty legs (learn more about them here) are frequently available between London and Dubai due to the popularity of the route, and can offer a saving of up to 75% off regular private jet charter pricing. Subscribe to our empty leg updates to be the first to hear about your favourite routes!

We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you on: +44(0) 203 880 9005.

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Why do Yacht Charter Customers Fly by Private Jet?

People that charter yachts will more often than not hire a private jet to fly to their awaiting floating paradise, but why? 

The beauty of yachts (and the reason you'll want to charter one) is that they move. On your demand, wherever you'd like to go. This can also prove a logistical nightmare when looking to fly to and from your yacht - which is where private jets come in. If you fly commercially, you may need to book two one way flights (if your yacht charter will end in a different place to where you started), and the yacht will need to dock in a bigger, more expensive port to meet you. In many cases, you can liase with your yacht charter company to arrange an appropriate meeting point for the lowest possible repositioning and docking costs. Chartering a private jet to a smaller, little known airport closer to your yacht can actually offer a lower price than an expensive reposition for the yacht. 

It's well known how much time you save when travelling by private jet. Can you imagine sitting in a commercial airport for three hours, with the anticipation of a luxury yacht waiting for you at the other side? Hire a private jet to get you as close to the yacht as possible - then we can book road or helicopter transfers to your yacht if you require it. Most yacht charters charge weekly, so make the most of all the time available to you on board.

Private jet charter also offers the unparalleled experience of luxury travel, which can't be matched by a commercial flight on any level. Flying privately is in some circumstances only a fraction of the cost of chartering a large yacht for a week, so why not complete the experience?

Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts on +44(0) 203 880 9005 and let us tailor a schedule to suit you. After all, luxury is freedom, so why stay grounded?

www.astutaviation.co.uk

How to Book a Private Jet

Flying by private jet is exciting, and offers an unrivalled level of flexibility within luxury travel. But how does the booking process actually work for a private jet, and how does it differ to booking a commercial flight? 

There is one fundamental difference between flying commercially and by private jet - flexibility. When booking an airline flight, you enter your travel dates and are presented with times (and sometimes even dates) that are predetermined. Some airlines only fly into certain airports, and this can really hinder the number of choices you have. And these constraints apply to all passengers - regardless of whether they fly economy or first class. 

Step one - enquire with us

If you're even considering flying privately, the first step is to contact us in the way that suits you most. You may know exactly what you're after, or you may want to have a conversation with us to discuss your requirements and let us tailor an itinerary that works for you. This can include finding out which airports are closest to you and your arrival destination - since private jets have access to a huge number of airports that commercial jets do not. From here, you can just leave the hard work with us! We will find the ideal aircraft for your trip and party size, and come back to you with a selection of options. Any extras (such as helicopter or road transfers) can also be discussed here, and we will look into this for you at the same time.

Step Two - Your Proposal

Your request will be assigned to a dedicated charter expert, ensuring you have continuity throughout the booking process. We have access to thousands of private jets worldwide, so your perfect aircraft is never far away. We will source quotations for a number of private jets that match your needs and place these into one single proposal document (with prices that include all relevant taxes for your flight), with multiple photos of each relevant aircraft. Our relationship with our closest operators puts us in a position to negotiate the best possible rates on your behalf, so you know you won't be paying more than you need to be. Once you've received these and are happy with the options, you simply need to let us know which one you would like to book - no fuss.

Step three - Confirmation

After letting us know which private jet you've chosen for your trip, we will return to the operator for a final confirmation of the flight. Here, your dedicated account manager can also deal with any personal requirements such as the catering you'd like during your flight, as these are booked through the aircraft operator. Once this is completed, the aircraft is reserved and charter agreements will be exchanged. Payment dates and details will be outlined in your agreement, and we'll need to you send in a few things (such as passport details) prior to your departure. Upon completion, your private jet is booked and the flight ready to go ahead!

Step four - fly

On the day of departure, you simply need to arrive at the airport 15 minutes before your flight is due to take off. Everything will be taken care of to ensure a smooth journey, so you simply need to board and enjoy the experience. 

Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts on +44(0) 203 880 9005 and let us tailor a schedule to suit you. After all, luxury is freedom, so why stay grounded? 

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Beating Jet Lag with Private Jet Travel

Jet lag occurs when you cross time zones, and the time differences disrupt your body's circadian rhythm. Although the degree of impact varies between individuals, there are several steps you can take to minimise jet lag. 

A quick search will tell you the main steps to battling jet lag after a flight. Simple steps such as drinking plenty and avoiding napping during the day at your destination are fairly achievable - but it can still take some people a full day to recover. More often than not, people don't want to lose the first day of their holiday groggy and adjusting to the new time zones - and business travellers can have important meetings to attend on day one. 

There are several ways that private jet travel can significantly reduce the impact that crossing the time zones has on your body. Private jet cabins are pressurised to a lower altitude than commercial aircraft, so private jets offer a journey that is much gentler on the body (especially in terms of fatigue and dehydration). Cabin air is also fresher, and you are in charge of how bright the lights are - regardless of the time of day. 

A very common point across the internet is to adjust your meal times on the day of travel, and eat according to the time at your destination. Generally, commercial airlines will provide food according to the departure time zone which limits your control over this. When flying by private jet, you'll be served exactly what you want when you want, so your body will be well on the way to acclimatising to your new time zone before you even land. 

The same goes for sleep! If it's 1am at your destination when you take off, you should try and get at least a couple of hours of sleep during the flight. This will help kick start the adjustment and give you energy to make it through a full day on the other side instead of forcing yourself to stay awake for 18 hours. This is always far easier said than done on a commercial flight; the seats are uncomfortable, the lights can be bright and there is usually a lot of noise. Most private jets have an area that can be converted in to a full bed, which will make it far easier to get a good rest before arriving.

If you take off late at night but it's the middle of the day where you're flying, you can keep the lights bright to simulate daylight, and the whole cabin is yours to move around freely. Many people suggest light exercises or yoga, and anyone can tell you how easy that would be in the narrow aisle of a commercial airliner!

We are also able to schedule your flight times to help minimise the impacts of jet lag, such as ensuring you land in the morning at your destination so you're able to stay busy throughout the day, and have a full nights sleep at the end of it. 

As much as private jet charter won't leave you completely immune to the effects of jet lag, it can certainly offer a lot more to help you combat it - so you're already most of the way to being adjusted to your destination time zone before you even step off the aircraft. If massively reducing jet lag isn't enough of a reason to charter a private jet for business, have a read about the other benefits of business charter. 

Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts on +44(0) 203 880 9005 and let us tailor a schedule to suit you. After all, luxury is freedom, so why stay grounded?

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Business Jets or Business Class?

Business Jets or Business class, similar in some ways, very different in others. We took a look into the benefits of using a business jet over business class. 

Time

A huge factor for anyone who travels regularly for business purposes! Business class is a pleasant experience, with many commercial airports offering  separate security queues and lounges for these customers. However, this doesn't automatically reduce your total time spent travelling. With a business jet, you're able to arrive up to just 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time, with the option to arrive sooner and enjoy lounge facilities if you wish. We are also able to provide for most catering requests and include this in the charter price, meaning employees can eat anything whilst in the air. A small touch maybe, but reducing the number of things to do on the ground can really help reduce the overall duration of the journey.

Private jets also have generally shorter flight times than commercial aircraft, due to the fact that we fly higher and have more direct routings in to the arrival airport. We thought a side by side comparison of the time taken by a business jet charter versus a commercial trip would give a better insight, so you can see a breakdown and just how much time you could potentially win back. We have based this on one of our more common business routes - London (office situated in Canary Wharf) to Dublin City Centre for a meeting at 11am. This is a common occurrence due to the large number of tech companies based in Dublin.

Private Jet

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LEAVE OFFICE: 9.00

ARRIVE DEPARTURE AIRPORT (LONDON CITY): 9.11

DEPART LONDON CITY: 9.25

LAND DUBLIN AIRPORT: 10.24

CLEAR SECURITY AND LEAVE AIRPORT: 10.25

ARRIVE DUBLIN CITY CENTRE: 10.55

MEETING: 11.00 -12.00

ARRIVE DUBLIN AIRPORT: 12.30

DEPART DUBLIN AIRPORT: 12.45

LAND LONDON CITY: 13.44

CLEAR SECURITY: 13.45

BACK IN OFFICE: 13.57

TOTAL TIME OUT OF OFFICE: 4 hours 57 minutes

Commercial flight

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LEAVE HOME (AVERAGE COMMUTE 1 HOUR): 03.45

ARRIVE DEPARTURE AIRPORT (LONDON HEATHROW): 04.45

DEPART LONDON HEATHROW: 06.45

LAND DUBLIN AIRPORT: 08.10

CLEAR SECURITY AND LEAVE AIRPORT: 09.00

ARRIVE DUBLIN CITY CENTRE: 09.30

 MEETING: 11.00 - 12.00

ARRIVE DUBLIN AIRPORT: 12.30

DEPART DUBLIN AIRPORT: 15.20

 LAND LONDON HEATHROW: 16.45

CLEAR SECURITY AND LEAVE AIRPORT: 17.30

RETURN HOME/OFFICE: 18.30

TOTAL TIME OUT OF OFFICE: 14 hours 45 minutes

Immediately you can see that flying commercially can cost you more than an entire working day, whereas a business jet charter allows your employees to start their day at the usual time, and still be back in the office for the afternoon. Not only this, but flying commercially limits you to flying at the times of the airline, which can leave large chunks of wasted time in between flights and meetings. The commercial flight is also best case scenario, and you have no control over any delays which may cause you to miss crucial meetings or lengthen the trip even further. 

Convenience

Although time spent at the airport plays a part in this, chartering a private jet for business also gives you many more options. Being much smaller than commercial aircraft, private jets are able to fly into smaller airports that may be much closer to your final destination and therefore reducing your transfer time. When flying with a commercial airline you are limited to their schedule, but if you charter your own jet you have full control over when you travel. Business jet hire can be fully worked around your needs, and there is even potential to have facilities for employees to sleep on a flight back from a business trip, allowing them to be ready to get back to work the next day - potentially removing the need for an overnight stay. Private jet cabins are also pressurised to an altitude usually around 2000ft lower than those of commercial aircraft,  this greatly reduces the impact on the human body that flying can have, such as fatigue and dehydration, allowing you to be working at full capacity sooner after landing. 

Productivity

A business jet is all yours for the duration of your flight, and other passengers looking over your shoulder is one thing you shouldn't have to worry about. The aircraft can essentially become a flying boardroom so that business can go on as usual with minimal disruption. Wifi is now available on many private jets (read more about it here), so you don't even need to disconnect from your colleagues whilst you fly. We understand how important it is to maximise the productivity of employees, or even make the most of a contractors hourly rate, so from booking to post flight feedback, we ensure that the process is smooth and requires minimal time input from Personal Assistants or travel bookers, compounding the benefit of charter.

Cost

Buying a business class ticket for just one person may work out cheaper than chartering an entire jet, but there are definitely circumstances where charter is the more cost effective option. This may be if you need to send several employees on the same trip, and chartering one plane could well be cheaper than buying multiple business class tickets for a flight. And as previously mentioned, a private jet is usually able to fly much closer to your destination, reducing the cost of transfer time after the flight. Empty legs may also be an option, we will always see if there are any aircraft heading to, or from your destination around when you need to travel, as these aircraft can be priced up to 75% off the usual charter price. 

All images provided by Gulfstream 

Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. 

Get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts today and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Why use a private jet broker instead of an operator?

Private jet charter is absolutely not limited to celebrities - anyone can hire a private jet for a tailored luxury travel experience. but what actually is the difference between a private jet broker and an operator? and which is better to book your private jet travel through?

Operators own and look after their own fleet of private jets, and manage the aircraft flight schedules. There are hundreds of private jet operators worldwide, and each works independently. If you enquire with an operator directly for a private jet charter, you are only able to receive quotations for the aircraft in their own fleet - and it can be difficult to keep track of everything when enquiring with multiple operators simultaneously. 

Private jet brokers deliver a personalised quote containing the most suitable aircraft from a number of operators on your behalf. We have a strong aviation background and will always determine the best aircraft for your particular requirements, and then source the operators who own these. Since we have access to over 30,000 aircraft worldwide, availability for us is nowhere near as limited as it is for an operator with a fleet of 30 private jets - so we can guarantee we are able to find you the best aircraft at the best possible price. We have long-standing working relationships with many operators, so are often able to achieve more favourable pricing than if you were to go to them directly. 

POSITIONING

Every private jet has a home base, which is the airport at which it stays when not in use. If you charter a private jet out of an airport that isn't its base, you also incur charges for repositioning the jet before and after your trip - for example, flying from London to Hamburg in a private jet that is usually based in Geneva would add a large extra cost. When booking through an operator, you are limited by where they keep the aircraft that you want to use. As a broker, we are often able to find the same model of private jet that is based much closer to (if not, at) your departure airport, keeping unnecessary costs to a minimum. 

RELATIONSHIPS

Our founders have been a part of the aviation industry for several years, and, as previously mentioned, have built up good relationships with multiple operators. As well as access to better rates for private jet charter, you can rest assured we will only book you to fly with a safe and reputable operator who will offer you nothing short of a luxurious service - saving you the time of having to do the research yourself!

A TAILORED EXPERIENCE

We will work to create fully personalised, bespoke travel arrangements on your behalf. Where an operator books your private jets dependent on their own fleet and availability via the sales team, we are able to organise travel outside of the flights. Need a helicopter to get you from the airport to your destination? Or road transport to and from the airports? We are usually able to book all of this on your behalf and include it all in your charter quote - no unnecessary hassle for you.

We also work to perfect every single detail of your flight. Although an operator is able to do this with your guidance, having your broker take care of everything saves you valuable time. This can include anything from your catering (we can organise your in-flight menus, or if you fancy a Nando's during your flight, we will sort everything!) to placing your favourite champagne on board your private jet for you to enjoy during the flight. 

Private jet travel is about luxury, so use a charter broker to do all of the work for you - then all you have to do on the day is turn up! Whatever your reason for flying, we would love to help you organise your trip. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you on: +44(0) 203 880 9005. 

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Hire a Private Jet for Valentine's Day

Is there a more romantic gesture out there than hiring a private jet to whisk your loved one away for valentine's day? We're yet to find one!

Maybe you want to plan the perfect proposal in a private jet as you fly over Paris at sunset, or over the sights of London in a private helicopter. Perhaps there's a special memory you'd like to recreate, only make it even better than the first time.  Private jet charter is not only a luxurious and one-of-a-kind treat for you and your other half; but it allows for the ultimate flexibility and high level, tailored service that you won't find anywhere else. 

Practically anything is possible, and our tailored client service means we can assist as much or as little as you would like. Even the tiniest details such as providing your favourite champagne on board your private jet, or some photographs for an extra personal flight for a loved-up couple can be arranged - no request is too small for us to help you engineer the perfect Valentine's Day celebration. Have a read of some of our favourite ideas for Valentine's Day by private jet. 

Sunset flight into New York

Wherever your departure airport, we can precisely co-ordinate the flight times so that you fly over the iconic New York City skyline as the sun goes down, making for the absolute perfect view. 

London to New york | 5 day Return | Falcon 2000X | £62,983

Day trip to paris

Whisk your loved one away in the morning, and enjoy a day roaming the streets of Paris together. We can even help organise the perfect lunch or dinner, and reserve you a table in one of the many famous restaurants with an idyllic view of the city. Then return home in quiet comfort and luxury in the evening. Check out a full blog post on private jet trips from London to Paris here.

London to Paris | Day Return | Phenom 100 | £5380

Weekend in venice

Renowned as one of the most romantic cities, why not spend a few nights overlooking the water and indulging in traditional Italian cuisine together? 

London to Venice | 2 night return | King Air b200 | £10,995

Private Helicopter tour

Whether you've travelled abroad and want to get the optimum view of your destination city from above, or are looking to stay closer to home for the day, we are able to organise private helicopter flights (and transfers) anywhere in the world. Simply get in touch with your desired itinerary and we will do the rest! When booking a private jet and helicopter flight with us together, everything will be included in the same quotation and agreement, so everything is included in one charter price. Helicopter flight prices vary massively depending on the destination and length of the tour, but we will always endeavour to find you the best possible deal. Get in touch today for the most up to date prices!

Empty Legs

Private jet travel doesn't have to be as expensive as many people think! Empty legs are always available (find out more about empty legs) and can be up to 75% cheaper than paying full price for private jet hire. You can sign up for our empty leg updates and specify Valentine's Day in the preferences to be the first to hear about cheap private jet flights around the special day.

Whatever your plans for Valentine's Day, we would love to help you organise your trip. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, so get in touch with one of our private jet charter experts and let us tailor a schedule to suit you on: +44(0) 203 880 9005.

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Charter a Private Jet to the 2018 Super Bowl LII

On February 4th, the New England Patriots will go head to head with the Philadelphia Eagles for the 52nd super bowl in Minneapolis. 

Every year, the Super Bowl is the most popular event for private jet charter flights. It's arguably one of the biggest sporting events in the USA, with the half time show (and events leading up to it) being just as big as the game itself.  

This year, Justin Timberlake joins an esteemed list of recent halftime acts including Lady Gaga, Coldplay, Beyoncé, Katy Perry, Bruno Mars, Madonna, The Who, Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Prince, the Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney, U2 and more.

Due to its popularity, slots for private jets at the surrounding airports fill up fast. There are five airports available to private jet charter clients within 15 miles of the US Bank Stadium, and helicopter flights from further airports can also be arranged. 

Get in touch soon to reserve a parking spot for your private jet, and arrive to the event in true VIP style. Get in touch with one of our charter experts on +44(0) 203 880 9005, and let us tailor a schedule to suit you. After all, life is about adventure, so why stay grounded? 

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Which is the best airport for ski flights?

There's still plenty of time to enjoy what's left of the ski season. Private Jet Charter is arguably one of the best ways to make the most of your trip, allowing you maximum time on the slopes and the shortest possible travel time. We took a look at the most popular ski destinations in europe, and the best airports to fly in to.  

Pretty much every ski resort in the Alps has the capability for a helicopter to land, so a transfer from the closest airport straight in to your chosen resort is the quickest way to travel. We can include the price for this in one simple charter quote to get you skiing in as little time as possible! We are also able to arrange road transfers in many cases, though travel times will be considerably longer and variable due to the alpine roads.  

Courchevel

In the heart of the three valleys, Courchevel is a hugely popular skiing destination in the Alps. The closest airport able to accept all flights is Chambery, which offers a one hour road transfer to the Courchevel resort, or 20 minutes by helicopter. However, Courchevel airport became able to accept commercially chartered flights in certain aircraft, reducing transfer time even further and giving you even more time out on the slopes. For more information on flying straight in to Courchevel, see: Courchevel now able to accept charter flights, or get in touch with one of our charter experts to organise this for you.

Flying in to Courchevel also brings you far closer to other popular resorts. Meribel is approximately two hours from Chambery by road, or 30 minutes by helicopter - but only a 45 minute drive or 5 minute helicopter flight from Courchevel. 

Val D'Isere

Famous for it's social scene and nightlife for after a day on the slopes, Val D'Isere has a lot to offer. Its high altitude means it generally gets the snow and also keeps it for the longest! The most straightforward way to get there is via Chambery airport then a 40 minute helicopter transfer to the resort; but flying in to Courchevel can also be an option, reducing the helicopter flight time to just 5 minutes. A road transfer takes approximately two hours from either airport. 

Verbier

One of the finest resorts in the Swiss alps boasting amazing scenery and a great nightlife, Verbier is popular for Skiers from all nationalities. Sion airport is right on the doorstep, so a helicopter transfer from here takes just 10 minutes - or approximately 55 minutes by road. 

St Moritz

Arguably one of the most famous and luxurious resorts for skiing in Europe, St Moritz is well known for its unique slopes and amazing nightlife. Samedan Airport is a dedicated private jet airport, and sits just a 10 minute drive from the resort. Both the airport and resort sit at a similar altitude, so an aircraft approach in to Samedan offers unrivalled views over the mountains. 

Chamonix

Chamonix boasts the longest ski run in the world at 24km long, and an extensive 261 other runs to surround one of the most expansive resorts found in the Alps. Private jet passengers fly in to Geneva airport, and can get to Chamonix by helicopter in just 20 minutes. 

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For reasons as to why private jet travel to ski destinations is so popular, have a read of our post on why you should charter a private jet to the ski slopes. Get in touch with one of our charter experts today and let us tailor a schedule to make the most out of your trip. After all, life is about adventure so why stay grounded? 

www.astuteaviation.co.uk

Private Jet Charter at Christmas and New Year

We often receive questions regarding flying over the festive period, and you'd be forgiven for thinking that private jet travel is as restricted on public holidays as commercial flights. However that is not the case, and we operate all year round to offer a bespoke service.

Can I fly by private jet on Christmas Day?

Aboslutely! FBOs are open all year round, and private jet charter flights can be arranged for any day of the year. We are available for consultation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week - meaning we can organise a flight on public holidays in advance or right at the last minute. Private jet hire is all about convenience for you. Even though availability may be more limited on Christmas day, we have access to over 30,000 aircraft and will quickly be able to find something to best suit your needs.

Can I bring my pet with me on a private jet? 

You may be flying out for the festive period and want to bring your furry friends along, and private jet hire offers the perfect solution for this. Providing they have the correct completed paperwork for international flights, any animal can travel in the cabin with you - making their journey much less stressful. For more information, take a look at our post about Pets on Private jets. 

Can I visit Christmas markets by private jet?

Visiting the Christmas Markets is perfect way to combine luxury travel with traditional festive shopping in the run up to  Christmas. There are so many possibilities, so if you need help deciding where to go you can check out the best European markets here. 

Can I hire a private jet on New Year’s Eve?

Just as with Christmas day, FBOs are open and private jet flights can take place without any problems. Private jet charter also allows for maximum flexibility - meaning you can experience New Year twice if you plan your route and timings right!

Travelling by private jet gives you and your loved ones maximum flexibility and comfort, allowing you to focus on what matters most. Whatever your plans for the festive season, we would love to help you organise your trip. After all, life is about adventure so why stay grounded? Get in touch with one of our private jet charter expert and let us tailor a schedule to suit you +44(0) 203 880 9005.

www.astuteaviation.co.uk