10 things a gentleman should know before boarding a private jet

Whether you’re contemplating chartering your own private jet for your next island escape, or you’ve been invited onboard as a guest, there are some essential (often unspoken) rules to brush up on beforehand. We’ve enlisted our friends at VistaJet to help demystify the world of private air travel...

First things first: it’s essential to know exactly who you’re flying with – whether it’s through a broker or directly with an operator – and to understand their safety ratings and operational standards. While a trusted operator may uphold the highest safety protocols in one region, it’s not uncommon for them to outsource to third-party providers when you're flying in another part of the world.

Standards can vary significantly across jurisdictions, so always inquire about who will be operating your specific flight and ensure they adhere to the same rigorous safety measures globally. A gentleman should never assume consistency without asking.

Remember that you’re flying on a private jet, not attending a slumber party. The private jet terminal is often frequented by the business elite and global celebrities, and provides an opportunity to rub shoulders with some very interesting people indeed. Remember: you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

How you pack is just as important as what you pack. Knowing your aircraft type is key as different jets have varying luggage capacities and storage configurations, so planning accordingly is a mark of both practicality and polish. Some of the most exclusive and design-led brands have partnered with private aviation providers to elevate the travel experience.

For example, those flying aboard the VistaJet Global 7500 – one of the most refined and unique fleets in the world – have access to an exclusive Valextra luggage collection, crafted specifically for the aircraft’s dimensions and aesthetic. It's a reminder that, at this level of travel, elegance extends to every detail – even your suitcase.

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 (it is a legal requirement to remove all snow and ice from an aircraft before takeoff) may be a surprise if you’re new to private jet charter.

If you fly with a pet that sheds or a heavy smoker you might be charged for cleaning costs. If you fly in icy conditions and airport crew spray the jet down with de-icing fluid there will be a significant charge depending on how much they use.

If you're traveling with children or pets, take the time to understand what accommodations are available on board – and what may be required in advance. For international travel, proper paperwork for pets is essential, and requirements can vary depending on the region and operator. Some providers also offer curated in-flight entertainment for younger passengers, like VistaJet’s 'Adventures in the Sky' program, which is complete with educational hampers and creative activities to keep children engaged throughout the journey.

A host should always ensure that every guest – whether a child or a four-legged companion – is comfortable, entertained, and properly cared for.

While private jets offer flexibility, it's courteous to arrive on time to respect the crew's schedule and ensure a smooth departure. Arriving late can disrupt carefully coordinated logistics and even result in the loss of valuable landing slots at your destination – particularly at high-traffic airports. Remember, the crew isn’t just flying the aircraft; they’re managing a precise schedule involving ground teams, air traffic coordination, and airport logistics.

If you're a guest, wait for your host to indicate where they’d like to sit. Avoid occupying the owner's preferred seat unless invited.

Avoid sharing images or details about fellow passengers without their consent, as privacy is paramount in private aviation – especially if a guest who is often a consistent private flyer likes to fly under the radar.

While tipping is not mandatory, a simple thank you to the crew for their service is always appreciated.

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, don’t hesitate to do whatever necessary to ease anxiety prior to take-off (we recommend a glass or two of champagne).

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