Flying in a private jet is a luxurious experience. When travelers fly privately for business, they get to enjoy a quiet cabin, extra room to lounge in, and a host of amenities while in the air. However, everyone on board is responsible for maintaining this pleasant atmosphere.
How to dress and act can be difficult for many first-time private flyers to navigate. Fortunately, the rules of “jet-iquette” — or jet-etiquette — are largely the same as on the ground. These unspoken rules help all onboard keep the aircraft clean and safe as well as ensure guests don’t offend their hosts. When travelling for business, it’s important to remember to remain professional — even when flying solo.
Keep these 7 tips on “jet-iquette” in mind the next time you fly:
1. Be on time.
In many cases, business aviation passengers don’t own the aircraft they’re flying in. The jet’s pilot, crew, and other passengers have places they need to be, too, so it’s important to show up for the flight on time. Being late can also mean additional fees. That’s why it’s best to be early, so show up around 20 to 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
2. Board after your host.
An unspoken rule of private flying is that the host gets the first pick of the seats. Travelers should avoid boarding before their hosts so they can select a seat, and others won’t have to endure the embarrassment of being asked to move.
3. Respect the crew.
The pilot and crew are there for everyone’s safety. As trained professionals, they have years of experience in the business aviation industry and want to make the flight as pleasant as possible. If they make a request, follow it promptly and without issue.
4. Mind your manners.
Just as manners are important in business settings on the ground, they are equally — if not more — important in the air. Be polite to crew members and any other passengers, and act professionally.
5. Pack lightly.
Even when there are only a few passengers on board, remember that private jets are small and have a limited capacity for “stuff.” Try to pack as lightly as possible to keep the cabin clear and cargo space open for other passengers’ belongings. If the flight has baggage limitations, always respect them.
6. Stay professional.
Flying in luxury can make some feel like it’s okay to kick back and relax. While this is true to a point, it’s also important to remain professional. Dress in business-casual or business-appropriate clothing when flying for business and remember to maintain a professional composure to represent the host and company well.
7. Be discreet.
Travelers often use private aviation for confidentiality purposes. While luxurious aircraft interiors might tempt travelers to snap pics and share them online or with friends, it’s best to avoid this for the safety and security of everyone else on board.
Flying privately for business can be a great experience. When you have the opportunity, make sure to look and act appropriately so everyone on board can enjoy the flight. And if you have questions about chartering private aircraft or purchasing jets for business purposes, speak with an experienced professional to get the best information in the industry.
Contact the experts at L & L International if you need assistance acquiring or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1 (305) 754-3313, or visit us online.
As one of the world’s largest private and business jet manufacturers, Gulfstream Aerospace is renowned for its family of high-end, high-performance, large- and midsize cabin jets. The jets are not only some of the most technologically advanced in the world but are also equally known for their distinctive interiors and leading cabin comfort, making them sought-after choices for discerning private and business jet customers.
By the numbers
As the jet market has started to recover over the last few years, increased demand for large-cabin private aircraft has positioned Gulfstream in a dominant position at the top of the market. 2017 ended strong for jet manufacturer Gulfstream and parent company General Dynamics. Fourth-quarter Gulfstream orders were up 20% due mostly to large-cabin orders, and “Gulfstream G650/650ER orders were up 78 percent year-over-year, making the fourth quarter the best for G650 family sales in three years and the second best quarter overall.”
General Dynamics leaders expect this increase in orders as well as soon-to-be introduced G500 and G600 models to push their company’s aerospace group, which also includes Jet Aviation, to as much as $8.4 billion in 2018 revenue. This would be an increase of $220 million over the previous year. However, they expect only about an 18% profit margin as they also plan to increase spending on R&D. Another factor in the anticipated low profit margin is due to General Dynamics decision-makers transitioning their Gulfstream assembly lines as they reduce G550 output and prepare for the upcoming G500 and G600 to enter into service.
Continued excellence
Although the company is no longer producing G450s, the Gulfstream G280 is still a business and private aviation favorite. This super-midsize jet recently reinforced its superior performance reputation with the addition of three new city-pair records:
Lagos, Nigeria, to Cape Verde, Africa — This 1,858-nautical-mile (nm) flight from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to Amílcar Cabral International Airport took 3 hours, 52 minutes, at Mach 0.84.
Cape Verde to San Juan, Puerto Rico — After landing in Cape Verde, pilots flew the G280 to Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. They completed this 3,011-nm flight at Mach 0.82 in 6 hours, 40 minutes.
Johannesburg to Lagos — The 2,596-nm journey from Lanseria International Airport to Murtala Muhammed International Airport lasted 5 hours, 31 minutes, with an average speed of Mach 0.83.
The G280, which entered into service in November 2012, performs better than any other aircraft in its class and has 60-plus city-pair records to prove it.
Out with the old …
While the G280 is best in class, the G450 has been one of the best-selling and most celebrated business jets in the industry. Its advanced technology, remarkable range, and unmatched passenger comfort make it one of the most popular business jets in history. In January, however, Gulfstream executives announced it had reached the end of the road. The final Gulfstream G450 has been delivered, freeing up additional Gulfstream production space. Although the company will continue to provide support for the G450, it’s time to make room for its successor, the G500.
… in with the new
Gulfstream leaders expect the large-cabin G500 will receive certification and enter into service this year. With that expectation, Gulfstream pilots have begun a 12-country G500 tour to introduce the aircraft to potential customers. The highly anticipated high-performance fly-by-wire jet features advanced technologies and an extra-wide cabin. According to Gulfstream president Mark Burns, the tour will allow customers to explore the aircraft as well as provide the opportunity for Gulfstream insiders to thoroughly test the jet prior to its entry into service.
If you’re excited about the new G500 but don’t want to wait for its entry into the market, some great deals exist on pre-owned Gulfstream jets. Which member of the Gulfstream family will you choose?
The expert jet brokers at L & L International are here to help you acquire the perfect jet.
When you think of private jets, the first brand that likely comes to mind is Gulfstream. No other jet brand has been a part of pop culture like Gulfstream, a name immortalized in songs and music videos and made synonymous with luxury or the “high life.” A huge part of this reputation comes from the Gulfstream G550, winner of the prestigious Robert J. Collier Trophy when it was the company’s flagship aircraft.
History and technological breakthroughs
The $46.5 million Gulfstream G550 entered service in 2003. It was the first business jet of its kind to feature a “glass cockpit” called PlaneView – a technology aviation industry insiders dreamt of for decades. Technology features include four 14-inch LCD displays that cover the entire instrument panel, offering pilots more viewing area and the ability to see every instrument and data set necessary to fly the jet. Gulfstream also delivered on its promise to add space to the cabin and increase range with this model.
Record-breaking performance
The G550 boasts the ability to fly 6,750 nautical miles nonstop while still being nimble enough to take off from short-field and high-altitude airports. It can fly 12 hours nonstop while transporting 19 passengers.
This month, Gulfstream announced that it delivered its 550th G550, cementing the aircraft’s position of quality and excellence in the world of business aviation. Although it has been around for more than a decade, the G550 still boasts a set of impressive features.
For starters, wireless internet, satellite communication, and an iridium phone and printer come as standard equipment, according to Gulfstream, allowing you to continue being productive in the air. Owners can also configure their G550s to accommodate beds for eight people or fit four living areas such as a private stateroom, rest areas for the crew, and an entertainment space.
Fourteen years after its initial release, the Gulfstream G550 continues to live up to its fantastic reputation.
If you are considering purchasing or selling a business jet, contact the professionals at L & L International. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us anytime at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.
Celebrities and the mega-rich love to live in luxury, and those following them in the tabloids get sneak peeks inside their opulent lives. While you obviously do not want the paparazzi following you around, you can draw inspiration from the stars as you design your next aircraft’s interior or refurbish your current business or personal jet.
The Manhattan airship
Many claim that the Manhattan Airship is as sophisticated as its New York namesake, and they might not be wrong. Deep mahogany wood, brass and rich jeweled hues are reminiscent of the Empire State Building. Much like a luxury cruise liner, the lounge’s décor is inspired by the Chrysler building. Retractable bar stools lit by vintage sconces and joined by a lambskin divan create a cozy and inviting ambiance. A panoramic city loft window allows passengers to enjoy any skyline in style.
The Hollywood airship
In a similar vein, the Hollywood Airship stands as a stark contrast to average private jets, boasting light colors and bold chrome accents. The neoclassic artwork ushers passengers back to the golden age of Hollywood, and a lounge area similar in design is filled with 1930s glam, including backlit crystal structures and tributes to great black-and-white films of old.
Ed Force One
When rock stars go on tour, many take busses or fly commercial airlines. But not Iron Maiden. These heavy metal head bangers traveled around the world on Ed Force One, flown by Iron Maiden singer Bruce Dickinson. The jet transported band members, staff, and all their equipment from country to country — making close to 50 tour stops along the way.
Luxury car fans are likely to enjoy the same smooth, sleek feel of a Mercedes-Benz from inside this aircraft. This private jet includes spiral elements that create unique zones inside the cabin, and walls, floors and ceilings that all seem to flow into one another. This jet is all about contemporary elegance coupled with luxurious style. It includes a kitchen, VIP bathroom, free-standing shower and a large bedroom complete with a king size bed.
Your jet
The good news is that you do not have to be a rock star or celebrity to customize or refurbish your new or pre-owned own jet so that it looks and feels just as luxurious as one of those mentioned above.
At L & L International, we are expert jet brokers and want to help you find the perfect jet to suit your budget and your needs. If you are thinking about selling your jet, we can assist you with creating an exit strategy that will enable you to sell or upgrade when you are ready. Contact one of our private aviation professionals online or at +1 (305) 754-3313.
To maximize profits, you need to maximize your tax benefits. Owning a private aircraft may appear an unnecessary expense to some, but depreciation rules can make its luxury far more affordable for savvy fliers.
If you’re considering a corporate jet for your business, you should understand the aircraft’s tax value. Not only can you travel privately for business by air but you can also claim substantial depreciation refunds on your asset when you file business tax returns. You just need to meet IRS criteria.
To be considered a justifiable expense, a private jet must be deemed necessary for business. Getting people from one location to another is considered necessary; being overly lavish is not.
Government tax laws help business leaders afford aircraft through accelerated depreciation. Under IRS rules, a private jet has a useful life of five years. Those rules further state that businesses can write off 70% of aircraft costs within the first three years. This is a tremendous benefit you can take advantage of for your business.
Depreciation
Business aircraft depreciate under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS). This calculus accelerates the depreciation rate in the first years of ownership. With MACRS, depreciation is taken over a period of five years.
If you don’t qualify for MACRS, you can use another technique called the alternative depreciation system (ADS), which is straight-line depreciation with the same amount taken each year for six years.
Bonus depreciation
Bonus depreciation enables business leaders to deduct an additional 50% of their purchase costs during the first year. The rate will go down 10% each year beginning in 2018. Specific rules apply and rates can be higher, so be sure to go over the particulars with your accountant.
Today’s business decision-makers have many reasons to purchase private aircraft. Convenience is more important than ever, and with tax benefits like these available, a jet could be a very smart purchase for you and your business.
When you’re ready to buy or sell a jet, let the experts at L & L International help. Our sales staff members are available at sales@L-Lint.com, +1 (305) 754-3313, or online.
The overall jet market is still down after the recession, but with the economy slowly and steadily picking up, purchasing a private jet now could be the smart move your business needs.
1. How much will it cost?
The cost of a private jet varies considerably based on the type of jet, whether it is new or used, and the features it boasts. Of course, the initial purchase price is just the start and you must factor maintenance, storage (hangarage), pilot and crew, fuel, insurance, and more into your budget to get the full picture of what it will cost to own and operate a private jet.
2. Should you buy new or used?
In this regard, buying an aircraft is much like buying a new car. Preowned aircraft are normally purchased on an “as-is” basis, meaning the buyer accepts the aircraft in its current condition. The depreciation of the aircraft is factored into the price, and the value is often quite good when buying a used aircraft.
Similar to buying a used car, you will want to have the aircraft’s maintenance documents and log books thoroughly reviewed by someone experienced in aircraft ownership.
3. What size do you need?
Determining the aircraft size is critical to your private jet purchase.
Take into account the typical number of people who will be traveling, but consider clients and their partners, too.
Next, take a look at how far your plane will be traveling; the distance will affect the size of plane as well.
Last, consider how often you plan to travel with your private jet. The number of flights will help you determine your operating costs.
4. How to crew your aircraft?
Choosing how to crew your aircraft is another consideration when it comes to purchasing a private jet. This includes maintenance and flight crew — all the people and expertise needed to keep your jet in perfect condition and you flying in perfect safety and comfort. When you purchase a private jet, look into the options available for a management company that can maintain and oversee your aircraft, as well as hire a pilot and flight crew.
5. Do it yourself or find a partner?
Unfortunately, buying a private jet isn’t as easy as buying a car — there are many FAA regulations and tax-related legalities that must be considered. Having your own legal advisor will make the process easier, but working with an experienced partner can make a big difference in how much you’ll spend and what type of aircraft you purchase. A partner can also help you navigate the options for a trustworthy and affordable management service provider.
Contact L & L International if you need assistance in purchasing or selling a private jet. You can reach our sales specialists today at sales@L-Lint.com, call us any time at +1.305.754.3313, or visit us online.