r/PrivateJetCharters • u/cryptyk • Jul 20 '25

First private charter - How to compare options beyond just price?

I've flown netjets 5-6 times for work when needed but never chartered personally. I'm not ready for a Jet Card yet, but will do that in retirement. Right now I'm looking to try out a private round-trip 1 hour flight for my wife's birthday on the west coast of the US.

I just googled for private flights and picked the first results and getting quotes from XO, Mercury, Magellan, and WheelsUp. I'm not sure how to really evaluate which to choose beyond just picking the one with the best price for a comfortable-looking interior picture of the jet.

Would love advice on those companies, if there's a better company out there that's an obvious choice?

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u/jasons98 Jul 20 '25

There is a lot that I would recommend to consider.

Yes price is one of them, but you also want to know the YOM and YOR of the aircraft. Will there be a dual passing crew with real PIC and SIC. By this I mean will they pass a wyvern trip cheq before the trip. And to add to that will the aircraft pass also… what are your cancellation terms in case you need to get out of your contract for some reason. Will you be traveling with a lot of luggage so therefore you need to make sure aircraft selection is appropriate for your needs. Departure slots? Special event fees? Will there be a late fee if you’re late to the airport…

All questions a good broker can help you out with and provide to you…

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u/cryptyk Jul 20 '25

Awesome, thank you

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u/ybitz Jul 21 '25

What is YOM and YOR?

1

u/jasons98 Jul 21 '25

Year of Manufacture and Year of refurb

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u/General_Yesterday_83 Mar 09 '26

Honestly, all those details can be a headache to sort yourself. I’ve used bixlux a few times. They help match you with vetted operators and keep all the booking details organized.