10 things a gentleman should know before getting on a private jet

If you are lucky enough to be invited to take to the skies as a guest on a private jet then there are a few things you’ll need to know in advance. Whether it’s your host’s own jet or they’ve chartered it for a specific occasion, the rules are the same. The world of private jet travel is usually reserved for the super rich and famous, so it’s worth knowing a few things about how to behave with perfect gentlemanly etiquette before you join the high skies of elite travel. We turned to our friends at Flightserve who offered some of their key pieces of advice also.

1. IT’S AS SAFE AS NORMAL AIR TRAVEL

There is absolutely no reason to be scared, the risks are just the same as commercial air travel, if anything – you have the added bonus that you know exactly who is on your flight and what is being brought on board.

2. LET YOUR HOST SET THE TONE

The person paying for the flight gets the best seat, so let them choose before you do. If you’re lucky enough to be on a private jet with a bed and shower keep in mind that these are perks for your host unless you are invited.

3. DON’T PRETEND YOU FLY PRIVATE ALL THE TIME

If your host usually does fly private they’ll know whether you do or don’t usually and they won’t be impressed by you pretending that you do.

4. BUT EQUALLY… DON’T GET OVER EXCITED AND LET ON THAT YOU’VE NEVER FLOWN PRIVATE BEFORE

Act with gentlemanly decorum, don’t “ohh” or “ahh” over what’s going on. Keep it classy gents.

5. THERE ARE NO RULES…

There are no rules as long as it is legal and your host and captain approve.

6. BE AWARE OF YOUR TIMINGS

Stick to the timings you’ve been given and don’t for God’s sake think that you can turn up late just because it’s a private flight. Etiquette is to arrive at the departure airport 30 minutes before departure.

7. DON’T GO OVERBOARD ON THE DRINKS

Just because you’re being offered a lot, doesn’t mean you should say yes to everything. No one want’s to be that guy on a flight. Follow suit of your host, let them set the pace of the flight – wait until they are drinking, eating or sleeping to do the same.

8. DRESS APPROPRIATELY

In general it’s suggested that you wear business casual attire – a black and crisp shirt with chinos is the perfect choice as it’s as comfortable as it is stylish. Equally, don’t overpack, we know it is tempting as you’re flying private but no one wants to turn up with more luggage than their host.

9. BRING A GIFT & BE RESPECTFUL OF YOUR CREW

It doesn’t need to be excessive, but bringing a small elegant gift for the person paying for the flight is always appropriate – a good bottle of champagne or whisky is perfect. And always be respectful of your crew. They may be there to serve but they are there primarily there to keep you safe.

10. KEEP IT PRIVATE

The clue is in the title – “private”. Don’t be that guy taking unlimited selifes for your Instagram – what happens in the air stays in the air.

For more information on the luxury private jet charter company Flightserve, please visit: flightserve.co.uk