Flying Private? Better Bring a Calculator

Good morning! I just published a video I’m really proud of on the new ‪Flybuyer YouTube channel. If you’re into WWII fighters, I think you’ll really enjoy this one! And if you like this kind of content, please consider subscribing—I’ve got new aircraft reviews coming out each week. 🛩️

-Rob Roy

In today’s email:

• From Champagne to Sticker Shock: The Cost of Flying Private

• Around the Skies: Boeing Field’s major rehab, Starliner’s future in question, Beyond Aero advances electric jet design, Luxury travel made easy, NTSB Midway incident report, Garmin’s safety suite grows

• PilotTube: A Cinematic Journey of Flight and Freedom

THE BUSINESS OF AVIATION

The Real Cost of Private Jet Charters: What They Don’t Tell You

Flying private is the ultimate flex. There are no TSA lines, no middle seats and absolutely no chance of getting stuck next to a stranger eating a tuna sandwich at 35,000 feet. The experience is seamless, but the pricing can be anything but. While booking a private jet charter feels straightforward, the final cost is often higher than the initial quote. Some providers offer all-inclusive pricing, while others take an itemized approach, where additional fees for services and operational costs can quickly add up.

Beyond the base hourly rate, several factors influence the total cost of a private jet charter. Fuel surcharges fluctuate with market prices and landing fees vary depending on the airport. Some airports waive landing fees if a minimum fuel purchase is met, but this is not always the case. Overnight fees may apply if the aircraft needs to remain at an airport, covering both parking and crew accommodations. In colder climates, de-icing is often necessary and can result in a substantial charge.

Additional services can also increase costs. Catering is available for passengers who want more than basic refreshments, but customized meal requests come at a premium. Ground transportation arrangements are convenient but are often billed separately. Repositioning fees apply when a jet must travel empty to reach a departure location, which means passengers may end up covering the cost of a flight they are not even on. International travel introduces customs and regulatory fees, while peak travel periods, such as holidays, may bring additional surcharges. If a flight is canceled, penalties can vary, with fees increasing the closer the cancellation occurs to departure.

Some charter companies offer ways to mitigate costs. For example, Trilogy Aviation Group provides "empty leg" flights at a discounted rate when a repositioning flight aligns with a passenger’s itinerary. Frequent flyers may also benefit from membership programs such as those offered by Magellan Jets, which provide more predictable pricing. However, if the membership is not used regularly, it can become an unnecessary expense rather than a cost-saving measure.

To avoid unexpected charges, travelers should request detailed, itemized estimates from multiple providers. Many charter companies offer online quote request forms and the more details provided about the trip, the more accurate the estimate will be. Comparing breakdowns of expenses helps determine what is included and where additional costs may arise. While private jet travel offers unparalleled flexibility and luxury, being informed about the full scope of potential expenses ensures a smooth and financially predictable experience.

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AROUND THE SKIES

🛩️ Boeing Field’s secondary runway is closing for several months of major rehab, including fresh pavement, LED lighting and taxiway upgrades. The 3,709-foot strip, mainly used by smaller GA aircraft, has reached the end of its useful life. Most traffic will shift to the main runway while crews work during the day and sneak in night taxiway work.

🛩️ Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams have returned safely to Earth, but Boeing’s Starliner capsule is staying grounded for now. After issues with thrusters and helium leaks, NASA may fly the next mission without a crew. Engineers are working on fixes, including thermal barriers and seal replacements. Boeing remains committed, but Starliner’s future hinges on proving it’s ready for regular flights.

🛩️ Beyond Aero says its hydrogen-electric jet, the BYA-1, is cruising toward certification with plans to deliver by 2030. The aircraft features a battery-free hydrogen fuel cell system, dual electric engines and a clean-sheet design for efficiency and safety. It promises lower emissions, reduced operating costs and a quieter flight experience.

🛩️ FlyExclusive has rolled out a revamped Jet Club membership that promises private jet access without the usual fine print headaches. The new plan includes perks like guaranteed year-round availability, transparent pricing with no fuel surcharges and even surprise “Deal Day” bonuses. Members can fly in style aboard super-midsize jets like the Bombardier Challenger 300 and 350.

🛩️ A recent NTSB report sheds light on the close call at Chicago Midway, where a Flexjet Challenger 350 accidentally crossed an active runway as a Southwest 737 was landing. The Challenger crew blamed confusing taxi instructions and a blinding low sun for the mistake. The Southwest jet had to perform a go-around, passing just 200 feet behind the Challenger. Thankfully, no one was hurt, though the incident was a little too exciting for a routine morning at the airport.

🛩️ At the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) convention, Garmin introduced the GCO 14, its first carbon monoxide detector for aircraft. The compact sensor integrates with GTN Xi and GI 275 displays, offering real-time alerts and customizable thresholds. It’s certified, lasts up to 10 years, and will sell for $549 starting in May. Garmin also revealed audio system upgrades to keep pilots informed and in control.

PilotTube

With aviation making headlines and camera tech soaring to new heights, filmmaker Sam Newton was invited to direct a launch film for the Canon R5 Mark II, showcasing its 8K RAW cinematic capabilities. He teamed up with pilot and aviation enthusiast Slick Baum to craft a visually stunning short film that captures the emotional power of flight. Filmed with precision and passion, the project blends breathtaking visuals, heartfelt narration and a touch of airborne poetry. The result is a love letter to aviation and storytelling that just happens to be shot on one of the most advanced cameras in the sky.

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