A Few Great Reasons to Fly Private

Filed in archive Aviation Travel on March 31, 2008

With rising airlines fares and troubles at airports, you may wonder why fly at all? However, if you have a few dollars to spare, consider flying private. An interesting article on Forbes, lists eight reasons travelers need to fly private. Surprising, according to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), more than 166 million people use general aviation annually, which includes private or corporate jets.

4. Wireless Internet
Executives on the go can't afford to be without Internet access. That's why most private planes are equipped with varying speeds of wi-fi that can enable surfing or video conferencing. It may also be the priciest perk of all: According to duncan aviation, a Lincoln, Neb., company that specializes in retrofitting older jets, the cost of installing wireless can reach $500,000.

6. State-of-the-Art Entertainment
Commercial airlines may be adding greater in-flight entertainment options, but they still can't compare with the amenities onboard a private plane. According to Duncan Aviation, a Lincoln, Neb., company that specializes in retrofitting older jets, popular upgrades include XM or Sirius radio, the capability to broadcast live television, LCD screens and DVD players at every seat.

5. Luxury Accommodations
Reclining leather seats are standard on business and luxury charters, and privacy can be had quickly with built-in dividers. A Boeing Business Jet, one of which costs $45.5 million dollars, takes posh accommodations to a new level. The basic model provides 807 square feet, while the BBJ3 offers 1,120. In these planes, passengers don't sleep in a reclining chair, but in a bed.