Getting there - Our guide to flying private

With interest in on-demand private jet charter on the up and up, it’s more important than ever to embrace proper jet-etiquette – or, as we like to call it, ‘jetiquette’. Whether you’re island-hopping in the Caribbean this winter, heading to warmer Balearic climes or gearing up for Alpine slopes, flying privately and on-demand is the only way for a stylish gentleman to travel. But, as with any luxury, this one comes with a set of unspoken rules. We have spoken to a number of brand partners, from VistaJet to Farnborough Airport, and compiled our jetiquette tips for your travels.

Just as Maritime Law governs the sea, Sky Law governs the sky. Of all the unwritten rules of jetiquette, this may be the most important: silence is golden. But if you squeal any private plane party secrets, don’t expect a return flight.

Don’t talk about “taking a jet”. Say you’re “arranging to fly”. “YOM” means year of manufacture. When fliers talk of “refurb dates”, they’re referring to the condition of both the interior and the exterior, and when it was last updated. “Seating config” is useful, too: some aircraft may say they seat six, but only are really comfortable for three or four.

The beauty of private jets is that they fly on your time; you don’t need to arrive at the airport two hours early. Arrive 20 minutes before, just in time to grab a coffee and be greeted by the pilot.

You’re flying a private jet, not attending a slumber party. The private jet terminal is frequented by the business elite and globally famous, and provides an opportunity to rub shoulders with interesting people. Remember: you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

In every private jet contract you will see a clause regarding possible extra charges. Some, like catering, are expected; others, like cleaning fees or de-icing, may be a surprise if you’re new to jet charter. If you fly with a pet that sheds or a heavy smoker, for example, you might be charged for cleaning costs.

A major perk of flying privately is that, usually, all of your luggage can travel on the aircraft with you. This means avoiding the lines at your destination airport. Capacity varies: while a Cessna Citation Mustang is ideal to jet to meetings, it’s not big enough to hold skiing equipment from a week in Courchevel.

Private jets are built differently to commercial aircrafts, with the most obvious difference being the size. While this may be unsettling to some, there’s no room for nervous fliers in this elite club. So if small spaces or turbulence trigger your jitters, we recommend a glass or two of vintage champagne.