As we kick off 2024, many of us may be thinking of getting away to hit the slopes in the coming months. With the vast array of destinations to choose from, Jet Members is here to assist with any enquiries and questions you may have.
What are the typical airports we serve and what to remember?
Geneva, Bern, Zurich, Basel are popular major airports and have a longer operational day than many of the smaller local airports. They are also served by more operators so can increase the availability, and in turn reduce the quoted trip price.
These major airports are more resilient to adverse weather conditions, such as low cloud cover, so reduce the risk of a weather diversion. In the peak seasons, departure and arrival slots can be implemented due to the limited available airport capacity so we would always instruct you to plan and book the trip as early as you can.
Smaller airports such as Samedan, St Gallen, Lugano, and Sion airports also remain popular choices, but it is important to remember that their proximity to high terrain surrounding the runway approaches makes these airports subject to clear weather conditions on the day of travel and in adverse weather conditions including low light diversions, therefore delays can happen. Jet Members always keeps an eye on your positioning & live legs and if there is ever a forced operational change to the schedule we are on hand to assist to get things back in order.
TIPS AND TRICKS
De-Icing factors
Aircraft need to be prepared properly for flight, which includes the need to remove any ice/snow from the flight surfaces. If on the day there is a need to remove ice/snow prior to the flight the crew may advise you that the aircraft needs to be de-iced which can incur additional fees and delays if multiple aircraft request de-icing services at the airport (please see our article on Jet Members Aircraft De-Icing Protection). Departures before sunrise may be more susceptible for de-icing so you may want to consider what time you are looking to fly.
Airport Slots
If you are looking at chartering a private jet during the peak skiing season as mentioned earlier, it is wise to give as much notice to your private Account Manager as possible.
The start and finish of Half Term are historically a busy time, so expect the airports to be operating at capacity. This can mean flights booked closer to the flight date may be limited in their arrival and departure times, and if there are adverse weather conditions on the day of travel, be prepared for flight diversions. One advantage of private jet charter is that during adverse weather operations, you should be able to adapt more easily than scheduled services.
Luggage allowances in the skiing season
Luggage space for winter attire, jackets, skis, boards, and boots can significantly mount up especially if you flying in a group so always check what you are planning on bringing on the aircraft. Happily, there are no extra costs for the extra amount of luggage you can bring, on the provision that it can all fit in the hold!
We always advise members to let us know of the estimated bags being taken so we can fit everything in the hold. Our advice is that soft-sided luggage is always your friend - skis and boots take up a lot of your allowance on smaller aircraft.
Travel Insurance
We would always recommend Travel Insurance every time you fly, especially if you are taking part in any winter sports. Repatriation and medical services can be expensive.
How to get the best price for private jet skiing trips – some simple tips
1. Book early - providing more choice of airlines and airport slots, and last-minute bookings may be subject to restrictions regardless of who you choose to use.
2. Consider traveling outside of the peak travel dates (Half Term) or consider looking at any private jet Empty Legs that may be created from inbound aircraft unwilling/unable to park at the airport - something Jet Members is happy to check.
3. Early morning flights may incur overnight and de-icing charges. A later departure may eliminate these fees.
4. Consider passenger numbers carefully - private jet options for up to 8 passengers are typically substantially more economical than 10-seat options.
5. Choice of airport - airport fees vary significantly (Farnborough Airport vs Biggin Hill) so if you are open to a choice of airports you may be able to reduce the cost of your overall charter.
6. Sometimes two one-way options using different airlines can be more cost-effective than a round trip using the same airline, however, this process can involve a lot of searching, amendments, and adjustments. Jet Members can search the market quickly and can advise you of these possible options.
For more information about how Jet Members can assist with your next private charter to the slopes please contact your private Account Manager, call or email +44 1932 961 465 / enquiries@jetmembers.co.uk
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