Flying privately will undoubtedly make you feel like a VIP but it’s important to not forget proper etiquette in all the excitement. Whether you want to rent a private jet for that all-important business meeting or to see the world, match your high-end travel with high-end behavior with this private flight etiquette and protocol guide:
Interacting with the Flight Crew
Your flight crew will be on hand to make sure you have everything you need for a comfortable journey. There is no excuse for treating them poorly or interacting with them rudely so it’s important to establish a respectful and courteous relationship. Start by introducing yourself and fellow passengers and use clear language when communicating any specific needs or preferences.
Respect Professional Boundaries
The first responsibility of the flight crew is safety and service. Private jet accidents are rare, and most passengers often survive but incidents still happen. That is why it’s essential to avoid intruding on the crew’s designated workspace and avoid making excessive demands.
Appreciation and Gratitude
Private air travel is a luxury but that does not entitle passengers to act like the captain. Crews will go above and beyond to meet your expectations and you should express gratitude for their service at appropriate times during the journey. Recognizing the hard work and effort put in maintains a good relationship and ensures a smooth flight.
Respecting Fellow Passengers’ Space
Unless you are flying alone, you’ll be sharing the cabin with other passengers. Maintaining personal space and privacy will foster a harmonious environment among passengers and minimize disruption to keep everyone comfortable. During conversations and personal activities, avoid loud conversations and behaviors that could disturb fellow passengers.
Seating Consideration
Respecting assigned seating arrangements and sitting in your assigned seat can avoid conflict between passengers and the crew. If you do need to change seats, avoid doing so without proper communication.
Privacy and Confidentiality
If you’re traveling with your own family, kick back and enjoy the experience. However, if you’re traveling with others, you’ll need to be careful with social media and privacy. Always check before you share images of other passengers and avoid discussing sensitive or confidential matters.
Dress code
There is no dress code on a private jet, per se but there is the expectation that passengers will dress appropriately. Comfort is key for travelling so there’s no need to be too overdressed. If you’re traveling for business, dressing formally is advised.
Hygiene and Cleanliness
Staying fresh when flying can be tricky, especially when you are traveling long haul. Maintaining personal hygiene is key to ensuring a pleasant environment for everyone involved. This includes disposing of trash and keeping your personal space tidy.
Alcohol and Beverages
While you might be on holiday, overindulging in alcohol can risk embarrassing yourself or your host. Always drink responsibly and be aware of its effects on behavior to avoid causing disruptions or discomfort.
Cultural Sensitivity
You never know who you could meet on your private air journey so it’s important to respect cultural differences among fellow passengers and the crew. You should always be mindful of topics or behaviors that could be considered offensive.