Travel has felt uncertain for a while now, with restrictions making even simple trips complicated. It's easy to think that staying home is the only option. But there's another side to the story. When you look into a covid safe private flight, you discover it's about more than just personal space. It’s about the layers of protection built into the experience—from medical-grade cabin cleaning to rigorous crew health screenings. These aren't just nice-to-haves; they are the new standard for traveling with peace of mind.
What does this mean for essential travel? What even is essential travel? And if you need to travel, how can you go about doing so with these new restrictions? This is where flying private can help. By dramatically reducing the number of people you’ll be interacting with, flight schedule delays, and added stress due to reduced staff, flying private can be the safest solution for all of your essential travel needs.
Here’s what you need to know about essential travel AND chartering a private jet during the COVID-19 crisis:
What Counts as Essential Travel?
According to a report on Fox News, “essential travel” is generally defined as being:
- U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are returning to the United States
- An individual is traveling for medical purposes
- An individual is traveling to attend their educational institutions
- An individual is traveling to work in the United States
- An individual is engaging in military-related travel or operations
- Government officials or emergency responders are traveling for public health purposes
- Members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and the spouses and children of members of the U.S. Armed Forces, are traveling back to the United States
While this is not an exhaustive list, it’s important to note that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still “leaves it up to the individual to interpret what does and does not constitute essential travel.” Depending on your current situation, the answer to “what is essential travel” may mean checking on family or friends in another state, transporting at-risk family members to a safer location, getting medical assistance in another location, or attending a funeral.
Is a Private Flight a COVID-Safe Way to Travel?
Essential travel doesn’t have to be scary during this time of unknowns. Flying on a traditional commercial airplane can leave you exposed to people and places that may not be clean, and at the very least, make social distancing nearly impossible. Flying private, however, means flying safely.
By chartering a private jet with a private jet broker like Hangar 7 Aviation, we can get you where you need to go in a far safer, less stressful, and less exposed environment than a commercial airline ever could. Flying private means flying on your terms, so any special requests you (or others) have can be seamlessly accommodated before you ever set foot in the aircraft.
Private jets use medical-grade and EPA-approved disinfectants when cleaning the plane’s interior. Having limited interactions with anyone outside of your party, you’ll be able to maintain a safe social distance and better protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19. Hangar 7 Aviation is here to alleviate your anxiety during this world-wide pandemic. We are here for your travel needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions regarding a necessary trip.
Minimizing Exposure at Every Step
One of the most significant advantages of flying private is the ability to control your environment from start to finish. Unlike commercial travel, which involves numerous unavoidable touchpoints and interactions, a private charter drastically reduces your exposure to others. This control begins long before you board the aircraft. From the moment you arrive at the airport, you bypass the crowded main terminals, check-in counters, and long security lines. Instead, you’ll use a private, fixed-base operator (FBO) terminal, a quiet and exclusive lounge where you interact with only a handful of essential personnel. This seamless process minimizes contact and creates a more relaxed, secure start to your journey.
Bypassing Crowded Terminals
The typical commercial airport experience involves navigating through thousands of people, but flying private eliminates that entirely. By using FBOs, you avoid the main terminal and its associated crowds. This dramatically reduces the number of people you come into contact with, which is a critical factor in maintaining your health and safety. This controlled environment isn't just about comfort; it's a fundamental safety measure that gives you peace of mind. At Hangar 7 Aviation, we arrange every detail of your private charter to ensure your journey is as seamless and low-contact as possible, from your car to the aircraft steps.
Reducing Contact Onboard
Once you're on the aircraft, the environment is exclusively yours. You are flying with only your chosen guests and the flight crew. This privacy means you can relax without concerns about proximity to unknown passengers. Furthermore, flying private means the journey is tailored to your specific needs. Any special requests, from catering preferences to specific seating arrangements, can be accommodated before you ever set foot on the plane. This level of personalization ensures that your onboard experience is not only luxurious but also aligns perfectly with your personal safety protocols and comfort level, allowing you to travel on your own terms.
Advanced In-Flight Safety Measures
Private aviation operators adhere to exceptionally high standards for cleanliness and air quality, often exceeding those of commercial airlines. The commitment to passenger safety is evident in the rigorous protocols implemented before, during, and after every flight. These measures are designed to create a sterile environment and ensure the well-being of everyone on board. From medical-grade sanitization of the entire cabin to advanced air filtration systems that constantly refresh the air, every aspect of the in-flight experience is managed with meticulous attention to detail. This focus on health and safety provides an unparalleled level of security for essential travel.
Comprehensive Aircraft Sanitization
Before you board, your private jet undergoes a thorough cleaning process using medical-grade, EPA-approved disinfectants. Every surface, from the leather seats and tray tables to the lavatory and cockpit, is meticulously sanitized. This isn't a quick wipe-down; it's a comprehensive procedure designed to eliminate viruses and bacteria, ensuring the cabin is sterile for your arrival. This commitment to cleanliness is a standard practice in private aviation, providing a baseline of safety that gives travelers confidence and peace of mind. The goal is to create an environment that is as clean and safe as your own home.
Hospital-Grade Air Filtration
The air you breathe on a private jet is cleaner than in most office buildings or homes. Aircraft are equipped with advanced air filtration systems, often using HEPA filters similar to those found in hospitals. These systems are incredibly effective at capturing microscopic particles, including viruses and bacteria. Furthermore, the cabin air is not just recirculated; it is constantly replaced with fresh, outside air every two to four minutes. This rapid air exchange ensures a continuous supply of clean air throughout your flight, significantly reducing the risk of airborne transmission and keeping the cabin environment fresh and healthy.
Strict Crew Health Protocols
The health and safety of the flight crew are just as important as that of the passengers. Pilots and cabin crew undergo regular health screenings and temperature checks before every flight. Many operators have implemented strict protocols, including regular COVID-19 testing, to ensure the crew is fit to fly. These professionals are also trained in health and safety procedures to minimize risk during the flight. By ensuring the crew is healthy, private charter companies add another critical layer of protection, making sure that everyone you interact with during your journey meets the highest safety standards.
Transparent Post-Flight Communication
Reputable private aviation companies are committed to transparency. In the unlikely event that a crew member develops symptoms or tests positive for an illness like COVID-19 within two weeks of your flight, you will be notified immediately. This policy of open communication is part of a comprehensive safety charter that prioritizes passenger well-being above all else. Knowing that you will be kept informed of any potential exposure allows you to take appropriate action and demonstrates the operator's dedication to responsible and ethical practices, building a foundation of trust with their clients.
Understanding the Real Risk of Transmission
While it's difficult to find precise data on the exact risk of catching an illness on any flight, the fundamental principles of transmission point to a significantly lower risk in a private aviation setting. The primary factors that increase risk—proximity to infected individuals and contact with contaminated surfaces—are drastically reduced when you fly private. You control who is on the plane with you, and the aircraft is sanitized for your exclusive use. This controlled environment, combined with advanced safety measures, creates a setting where the risk of transmission is minimized as much as scientifically possible.
What the Data Suggests
While public health experts acknowledge that it's very difficult to pinpoint the exact probability of catching COVID-19 on a plane, the logic is straightforward: fewer people mean fewer opportunities for transmission. On a commercial flight, you could be sharing a cabin with hundreds of strangers. On a private jet, you are in an enclosed space with only your chosen companions and a small, health-screened crew. This simple reduction in the number of human interactions is one of the most effective strategies for staying safe, making private travel an inherently lower-risk option for those who need to travel.
Why Air Filtration Matters
According to health organizations like the Mayo Clinic, air filtration is a key reason why planes are not the high-risk environments they might seem to be. The air in an aircraft cabin is heavily filtered and completely refreshed with outside air at a rapid pace. This constant circulation means that germs and viruses have less opportunity to spread before they are captured by hospital-grade HEPA filters. This feature is common to both commercial and private jets, but when combined with the limited number of passengers on a private flight, it creates an exceptionally safe and clean breathing environment for the duration of your trip.
A Broader Look at Private Aviation Safety
Beyond health protocols, the private aviation industry is built on a foundation of rigorous safety standards that often exceed government regulations. When you choose to fly private, you're not just opting for convenience; you're selecting a mode of transportation with an unwavering commitment to safety. This commitment is verified through independent, third-party audits that evaluate every aspect of an operator's procedures, from pilot training to aircraft maintenance. Companies like Hangar 7 Aviation prioritize these certifications to demonstrate their dedication to operational excellence. This broader safety culture ensures that every flight is managed with the highest degree of professionalism and care, giving you confidence every time you fly.
The Importance of Third-Party Safety Audits
While the FAA sets the baseline for aviation safety, many top-tier charter operators voluntarily undergo audits from independent safety organizations like ARGUS and WYVERN. These groups conduct in-depth reviews of a company's safety history, maintenance records, and operational procedures. Earning a high rating from these auditors is a mark of distinction that signals a commitment to safety that goes above and beyond the standard requirements. When selecting a charter provider, looking for these certifications is a reliable way to ensure you are flying with an operator that has been thoroughly vetted by the industry's most respected safety experts.
Comparing Safety Records: Private vs. Commercial
When it comes to safety, private jets offer a fundamentally different experience by providing a more controlled and private space. This privacy inherently reduces many of the variables and worries associated with commercial travel, such as interactions with other passengers or concerns about shared surfaces. While both sectors have impressive safety records, the ability to manage your own environment on a private flight adds a unique layer of personal and health security. This control, combined with the stringent operational standards of leading charter companies, makes private aviation an exceptionally safe way to travel for business or leisure.
Pilot Experience and Training Standards
Pilots in the private aviation sector are highly trained professionals who undergo continuous and rigorous training to maintain their skills. While a commercial airline captain may have more total flight hours due to the nature of their schedules, private jet pilots are held to incredibly high standards of proficiency and must demonstrate expertise in handling their specific aircraft. They often fly into a wider variety of airports, requiring a versatile and adaptable skill set. Reputable charter operators invest heavily in pilot training, ensuring your flight crew is prepared for any situation and dedicated to making your safety their number one priority.
Practical Steps for Every Traveler
Even with the extensive safety measures in place, being a proactive and informed traveler is key to a smooth and healthy journey. Taking a few practical steps before you fly and after you land can add an extra layer of protection for yourself and those around you. This includes completing any required health screenings, understanding the local guidelines at your destination, and monitoring your health upon your return. By partnering with your charter provider and taking these simple precautions, you can ensure your essential travel is as safe and stress-free as possible. It’s a collaborative effort that ensures peace of mind from beginning to end.
Preparing for Your Trip
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a seamless travel experience. Before your departure, your charter coordinator will guide you through any necessary steps, but it's always wise to be proactive. This includes familiarizing yourself with any pre-flight requirements and understanding the public health situation at your destination. Taking a few moments to prepare can help you avoid any last-minute surprises and allow you to focus on the purpose of your trip. This preparation is a simple yet effective way to contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of your journey.
Complete a Pre-Travel Health Check
As a standard precaution, you will likely be asked to complete a pre-travel health screening form. This is a simple questionnaire that confirms you are not experiencing any symptoms of illness and have not had any recent known exposures. Completing this form honestly is a crucial step in protecting the flight crew and ensuring a safe environment for everyone. It’s a quick and easy process that serves as a first line of defense and demonstrates a shared commitment to the well-being of all individuals involved in your travel.
Research Your Destination's Requirements
Travel guidelines can vary significantly from one location to another. Before you depart, it's important to check the local health advisories and any entry requirements for your destination. Some regions may have specific quarantine rules or testing mandates in place. Being aware of these requirements ahead of time will help you plan accordingly and ensure a smooth arrival. Your charter provider can often assist with this information, but a quick personal check of official government or public health websites is always a good idea.
After You Arrive
Your commitment to safety shouldn't end when the plane lands. Following post-travel health recommendations is an important final step in protecting yourself and your community. This includes monitoring your health for any symptoms and following public health guidance on testing or self-quarantining. By being diligent after your trip, you help prevent any potential spread and contribute to the collective effort of keeping everyone safe. These simple post-flight actions are a responsible conclusion to your essential travel.
Post-Travel Health Monitoring
After returning from your trip, it's wise to follow the guidance of public health organizations like the CDC. They often suggest getting tested for COVID-19 three to five days after you travel and reducing non-essential activities for a week. Even if you feel perfectly fine, monitoring your health for any developing symptoms is a responsible practice. This vigilance helps protect your family, colleagues, and community and is a critical part of responsible travel during a public health crisis.
What to Do If You Feel Unwell
If you begin to feel unwell or develop any symptoms of illness after your trip, it is essential to stay home and isolate yourself from others. Contact your healthcare provider for advice and to arrange for testing if necessary. Symptoms like fever, cough, or a new loss of taste or smell should be taken seriously. By staying home when you're sick, you prevent further transmission and ensure you get the care you need. This simple act of responsibility is one of the most effective ways to protect the health of your community.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is flying private different from flying first-class on a commercial airline when it comes to safety? While first-class offers more space on the plane, the main difference lies in your entire travel environment. When you fly private, you avoid the main airport terminal, crowded security lines, and gate areas altogether. Your journey begins at a private terminal, or FBO, where you only interact with a few essential personnel. The aircraft is exclusively for you and your guests, which means you aren't sharing air or surfaces with hundreds of other travelers. It’s a level of control over your surroundings that commercial travel simply can't match.
What does the airport experience look like when I charter a private jet? The process is incredibly streamlined and private. Instead of navigating the main airport, you'll be directed to a separate, quiet facility known as a fixed-base operator (FBO). Here, you can relax in a private lounge while the crew handles your luggage and final preparations. The security screening is quick and discreet. In many cases, you can even be driven directly to the aircraft steps for boarding. The entire pre-flight experience is designed to be seamless and minimize your contact with anyone outside of your travel party and the flight crew.
I'm concerned about the air quality on a plane. How is it managed on a private jet? This is a valid concern, and it's an area where private jets excel. The aircraft are equipped with hospital-grade HEPA filters that capture microscopic particles, including viruses. More importantly, the cabin air isn't just recirculated; it's completely replaced with fresh, outside air every few minutes. This constant and rapid air exchange creates a clean and healthy breathing environment throughout your flight, which is a significant factor in reducing the risk of airborne transmission.
What specific steps are taken to ensure the flight crew is healthy? The health of the pilots and any cabin crew is a top priority. They undergo regular health screenings and temperature checks before every single flight. Reputable operators have strict policies that include regular testing and require crew members to report any symptoms or potential exposure immediately. They are also thoroughly trained on health and safety protocols to maintain a sterile environment onboard, adding another critical layer of protection for your journey.
Beyond health protocols, what makes private aviation a safe choice for travel? The private aviation industry operates under a deep-rooted culture of safety that often goes beyond standard regulations. Top charter operators voluntarily submit to rigorous, independent audits from organizations like ARGUS and WYVERN. These audits scrutinize every aspect of an operator's safety records, maintenance procedures, and pilot training standards. Choosing a provider that holds these high ratings means you are flying with a company that has proven its unwavering commitment to operational excellence and your personal security.
Key Takeaways
- Minimize Health Risks by Controlling Your Environment: Flying private allows you to bypass crowded commercial terminals and fly only with people you know, drastically reducing contact points and potential exposure to illness.
- Trust in Superior Onboard Safety Standards: Private jets offer a higher standard of cleanliness with medical-grade sanitization and hospital-grade HEPA filters that continuously refresh the cabin air, ensuring a sterile and healthy in-flight atmosphere.
- Be a Proactive and Informed Traveler: Your safety is a partnership. Prepare for your trip by completing any health screenings, researching your destination’s local guidelines, and monitoring your health after you land to ensure a seamless and secure journey.
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