JetHub Blog 10 Initial Pre-Screening Questions For Your Next Private Jet Rental

The advantages to flying in a private jet rental make it easy to see why so many people swear by it. Still, creature comforts should never be chosen at the expense of safety. As such, it's imperative that you do your research before booking a private jet rental. To get you started, here are ten questions that you should always ask your prospective charter company.1. Who is the FAA certified charter operator that will conduct our charter flight?Ask your charter company candidate for the name of the flight operator and for proof of his/her FAA pilot license/certificate. You also have the right to verify this information with the FAA to ensure that the business is legitimate and operating safely.2. What level of experience does the operator have?To earn a private pilot's license through the FAA, a flight operator must complete 40 to 60 hours of flying and flight school, minimum. Additionally, 50 hours of Pilot in Command time and 40 hours of flight and/or simulator training are required. Be mindful, though, that this level of experience, it's not enough to fly passengers. In order for a pilot to fly anyone other than themselves in a private jet rental, they must earn an FAA commercial pilot's license/certificate 3. How long has the operator been in business?A more experienced charter operator will understand the ins and outs of all FAA safety regulations and how to provide the safest, most comfortable private jet rental flight possible.4. What type of aircraft is on the charter certificate?Never book a private jet rental on an aircraft that is not listed, as this means that it has not been inspected by the FAA and probably not legal for charter.5. What is the year of manufacture for the aircraft(s)?Although an older plane doesn't necessarily mean that it's unsafe, it is critical that you verify its mechanical soundness. Find out when the last full inspection was completed by the FAA or firms like Wyvern, and the outcome.6. Have any major refurbishments occurred and when?Verify that any interior, exterior, or equipment refurbishments were cleared by the FAA. Find out when the changes occurred, and make sure that a comprehensive inspection has been completed since.7. How many crew members are working for the charter operator?Because one of the biggest draw of flying on a private jet rental is private service, you'll want to find out how many crew members will be taking care of the needs of you and your fellow passengers to ensure that you'll receive the attention you need.8. Has the FAA ever taken enforcement action against the operator or one of its flight crew?If the FAA has ever had any reason to penalize your prospective charter company, flight operator, or crew for misconduct or other reasons, this should be a pretty obvious indication that you may want to consider choosing a different private jet rental.9. What level of experience does the crew have?Be sure to find out how long the crew has been working in the airline industry, specifically in catering to a private jet rental. Ask about what type of certifications they may hold, and if they are well-versed in safety protocol. 10. How many flight hours has each make/model of the operator's aircraft experienced?Demand that your aircraft has logged enough flying hours to prove that everything is in working order. Similarly, any plane that has logged a great deal of flying hours should be inspected regularly for mechanical safety.Does this seem daunting? These are just some of the initial questions and information that should be gathered before you charter a private jet. One of your best options is to use a Charter Broker who already has done the background and due diligence of the charter operators.