SESJETS Private Aviation Checklist

Start with a clear travel brief: departure and destination, preferred times, passenger numbers, schedule flexibility, luggage, cabin preferences and any additional flight sectors. Include pets, ground transportation or international travel requirements from the outset.

Recurring travellers should not need to repeat every preference for every flight. A current travel profile can record preferred airports, cabin and catering choices, Wi-Fi needs, typical luggage, pet requirements, frequent routes and authorised contacts.

Passenger capacity is only one consideration. Flight distance, runway length, luggage volume, cabin needs, airport access and aircraft performance all influence which option is suitable for the specific itinerary.

Safety should form part of aircraft selection. Understand how the operator is licensed and overseen, whether the aircraft and crew are suitable for the route, and what operator documentation or independent safety information is available for review. Any specific due-diligence requirements should be raised before confirmation.

The airport closest to a city is not always the best choice. Operating hours, runway capability, aircraft restrictions, customs arrangements, congestion, FBO facilities and travel time to the final destination can all influence the optimal route.

A well-planned charter also accounts for catering, passenger documentation, luggage, pets, airport arrangements and ground transportation associated with the flight. Assign responsibility for each detail and confirm arrangements before departure.

Weather, technical events, airport restrictions, crew limitations and changes to a passenger’s schedule can affect a planned flight. Know who will monitor the trip, who the travel team can contact if plans change, and how alternative aircraft, airports or routes will be assessed.

Travel plans can reveal sensitive information about a principal, family or business. Agree who is authorised to request flights, approve changes and receive itinerary updates. Share passenger details and travel schedules only with the people who need them to arrange and operate the trip, using the family office’s or company’s preferred communication channels where practical.