Private Jet Directory

Getting started

How private jet charter works

A plain-English guide to booking an on-demand private flight, from the first enquiry to landing.

Private Jet Directory 15 Jan 2026 6 min read

On-demand charter is the most flexible way to fly privately. You book a specific aircraft for a specific trip, with no membership, no card on file and no long-term commitment. This guide explains how the process works from start to finish.

Who you are dealing with

There are two main parties in any charter. The operator holds the aircraft and the air operator certificate that allows it to fly commercially. The broker is an intermediary who sources aircraft across many operators on your behalf. Both can arrange a flight; the right choice depends on whether you already know the aircraft you want.

Getting a quote

You provide the route, dates, number of passengers and any preferences. You will then receive options across different aircraft categories, each with an indicative price. Prices vary with aircraft size, distance, positioning and demand, so the same route can be quoted very differently depending on availability.

Confirming the flight

  • Review the aircraft type, age and operator before you confirm
  • Check what is included, such as catering, ground transport and handling
  • Confirm the departure airport, as private flights often use dedicated business airports
  • Allow for positioning, the cost of flying the aircraft to your departure point

On the day

Private terminals allow you to arrive shortly before departure. Security is quick, you walk straight to the aircraft, and your luggage travels with you. On arrival you are typically off the aircraft and on your way within minutes.

We are an independent directory. We do not sell flights or hold any aircraft. We help you find providers and pass your enquiry to them.

Plan your trip with the directory

Send one enquiry and relevant operators and brokers come back to you directly. We are an independent directory and never take payment or ask for card details.

Frequently asked questions

Does this guide mean you arrange flights?

No. PrivateJetDirectory.io is an independent directory and information service. We are not an operator, air carrier or broker. We pass enquiries to relevant third-party providers who deal with you directly.

How do I act on what I have read here?

Send one enquiry through the directory with your route, dates and passenger numbers. We share it with relevant providers, who respond with options and pricing. There is never any charge to enquire.

Are any prices mentioned final?

No. Any figures are indicative only and help explain how pricing works. The provider confirms the final price at the time of enquiry, and we never take payment or ask for card details.

Ready to take the next step?

Compare operators and brokers, explore routes and aircraft, then send one free enquiry across the directory.