By Addie Bell Zackon, Founder & CEO, Jetset & Travel
It’s true, we really do put the JET in JETSET! In 2025 alone, my team arranged 64 private jet flights for clients—the same year private jet travel hit a record.
I love flying private because it makes the entire travel experience feel intimate and stress-free. Nothing beats feeling cared for from the moment you leave for the airport.
When I talk to clients, I've realized most only know about private jet charters, so I’m sharing four ways on how to fly private that are available to you. Read on to find your perfect fit!
When does chartering a private jet make sense?
Best for: families and groups, ski trips with gear and pets, multi-stop itineraries, and anyone flying private a few times a year.
Private jet charter is when the whole aircraft is yours. You create the schedule and depart from smaller, more manageable airports with trusted pilots and crews, for a seamless journey from wheels up to wheels down.
We’re proud to partner with Las Vegas-based Thrive Aviation, which manages more than 30 aircraft. Thrive holds ARGUS Platinum Elite, ARGUS’s highest safety rating so you can rest easy.
First time flying private?
These are the questions I always ask clients:
What size jet do you need?
Would you like a bed, a conference table, or a galley?
Are Wi-Fi and a flight attendant important?
What are your catering preferences?
What’s your exact destination (so we can choose the closest private terminal (FBO))?
Is there a big event there that could affect scheduling?
The more I know upfront, the better I can tailor your experience!
Once you’re booked, lean into the fun! My tip is to early and enjoy the private terminal, request your favorite snacks, and make a playlist for the flight.
Is a jet card worth it?
Best for: regular private flyers who want predictable rates and guaranteed access.
If you fly often, definitely! A jet card is prepaid private flying, meaning you fund an account and fly at set rates. It’s the closest thing to owning your own plane!
With Thrive Aviation, your jet card guarantees availability at fixed hourly rates, with as little as 48 hours’ notice on select tiers. As a member, you pay only for hours in the air, with no charges for empty repositioning flights.
If you’re wondering if it’s the right fit for you, we can help! We’ll give you an honest answer on whether a card makes sense for how often you fly, then plan the rest of your trip around it.
What is semi-private flying?
Best for: couples and small families on popular leisure routes.
Semi-private flying means booking a single seat on a small private jet. It lets you leave the airport chaos behind without chartering an entire jet.
Our clients adore Aero, which flies only between private terminals and offers curbside check-in just 20 minutes before departure. Its custom Embraer jets have 16 spacious Italian leather seats, each with a window and an aisle. In-flight dining includes a seasonal Erewhon menu, and flights feature Starlink Wi-Fi and a warm welcome for pets!
Aero routes include: Los Angeles, New York City, East Hampton, Miami, Maui, Los Cabos, Aspen, Sun Valley, Las Vegas, Napa, and Palm Springs.
Flying out of a private terminal: Can you skip the terminal on a commercial flight?
Best for: long-haul international flights, families with little ones, and high-profile travelers.
Absolutely! Even if you don’t fly private, you can get treated like you do. A private terminal offers your own entrance, private security and passport control, a suite in place of a crowded gate, and a car across the tarmac to your plane.
These are private terminals we’re proud to partner with:
In London, The Windsor by Heathrow’s VIP service was originally for royalty and diplomats in the 1960s. It has since opened its doors to first- and business-class passengers on any airline. Guests enjoy one of eight private suites, a butler, a changing art collection by some of the world’s finest artists, and its own immigration officer.
PS offers private suites at LAX, Atlanta, Dallas, and Miami. Each suite includes a daybed, entertainment center, fully stocked pantry, and private lavatory. In 2027, PS will expand service to Paris CDG!
Delta One private check-in is available at every U.S. hub, and the Delta One Lounge at JFK, LAX, SEA, and BOS features private check-in, nap pods, regionally inspired meals, and full-body massage chairs.
For European travel, the Lufthansa First Class Terminal in Frankfurt offers private check-in, a cigar lounge,, and exclusive liquors from the Ziegler Distillery.
What are private jet journeys?
Best for: bucket-list, multi-country travel with every logistics handled.
A private jet journey is an all-inclusive, small-group adventure where every detail is handled. Here are the four I book for clients again and again:
The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience
For the traveler who wants the world’s finest hotels, no connections required. Touring it in Seattle, I was completely blown away. The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience features just 48 lie-flat seats on a plane that typically holds 244, personal ottomans that double as seats so you can chat with friends, a rear lounge, an onboard physician, and inspiring meals curated by the onboard Executive Chef (Read my full review here!).
These tours give travelers about three nights per stop and no overnight flights, ensuring the most restful sleep.
In 2027, the Private Jet Experience adds Tamarindo and Cartagena to its Americas-to-Antarctica journey, with Machu Picchu on the way, too!
For the traveler who loves solo travel. These small group journeys accommodate 16-18 guests. Our clients love how bespoke it is. Travelers enjoy a mix of shared experiences and tours curated to their personal preferences.
For 2027, they’re now booking their five expeditions, including The Grandest Tour. This adventure spans seven countries, from Japan to Bhutan to Greece, with stays at Aman throughout.
For the traveler dreaming of every continent. TCS has flown private jets worldwide for nearly 30 years. TCS jet journeys span all seven continents, reaching Antarctica’s interior via the White Desert.
In 2027, the Golf Around the World Expedition with Kalos Golf lets golfers explore 11 courses on one trip, including Nepal’s first 18-hole course.
For the traveler whose bucket list ends at the South Pole. Its private jet whisks you from Cape Town to Antarctica’s interior in about five hours.
Their journeys include once-in-a-lifetime experiences like seeing the Emperor penguin chicks take their first steps and Antarctica’s blue rivers.
Find your way to fly private
However you want to JETSET, we’ll make sure it’s seamless and memorable. Tell us where you’re dreaming of going, and we’ll make it happen!