Most Asked Questions

When traveling on a private jet, is a passport needed?

Traveling on a private jet does not require a passport. However, if traveling outside of the country you are departing from, you will need a passport no matter what mode of transportation it takes to get there.

 

How to get onto a charter flight?

Coordinate with trusted private jet companies like TapJets.

Tapjets has been in the industry for six years now, and we can help you find the right solution for your travel needs. You can request a quote by going to our website: TapJets.com. We also have a mobile app downloadable via Google Play & App Store. If you need immediate assistance, you can give us a call at 1-888-500-4385. 

You need to provide your flight itinerary such as the pick-up airport, destination, the number of passengers, date of a flight (if the dates are flexible or not), if this will be a one-way, round trip, or a multi-leg trip. 

Can a pilot own his own charter jet?

Yes. The pilot needs to secure an FAA Part 135 certificate. This allows them to advertise charter services. Additionally, they should have a commercial license, instrument rating, jet rating, and type rating for the jet. The FAA will inspect before the official start of the business.

Where can I find the records of a private charter flight?

Flying private in most cases, assuming the company you book with values your privacy can be a highly confidential event.  Regulations require that each charter flight generates several documents:  Itinerary, Flight Log, Passenger Manifest, Weight and Balance, Flight Plan, and dispatch records.  Once the flight lands, only the flight log is required to be preserved as part of aircraft flight time records. All other documents can be destroyed or disposed of after 90 days from the safe completion of the flight. If you are working with a reputable digital platform, this information management is automated.  There should be no reason for anyone in the world to know when and where you traveled privately.

How to charter a plane?

Coordinate with trusted private jet companies like TapJets. Tapjets has been in the industry for six years now, and we can help you find the right solution for your travel needs. You can request a quote by going to our website: TapJets.com. We also have a mobile app downloadable via Google Play & App Store. If you need immediate assistance, you can give us a call at 1-888-500-4385. 

You need to provide your flight itinerary such as the pick-up airport, destination, the number of passengers, date of a flight (if the dates are flexible or not), if this will be a one-way, round trip, or a multi-leg trip.

How does owning a private jet work?

Owning a private jet involves three components: buying the aircraft, maintaining the aircraft, employing staff and incurring fuel, insurance, hangar and other variable expenses.

For a profitable company or individual the ownership comes with tax benefits that can offset some of these costs.  In addition you can offset some of the costs by leasing the aircraft to charter operators.

How to be a private jet charter broker?

Until recently, to become a charter broker, you only needed a phone and a business name.  But with the recent regulatory changes, brokers must adhere to some of the more stringent guidelines and disclosures.  Good air charter brokers will have operational knowledge of the industry, exemplary sales and lead generation processes, and good relationships with operators that perform the flights.  Brokers can leverage several marketplace technologies such as TapJets SkyWizard to find the most suitable and cost-effective aircraft for your flight.  Effective brokers can make a good living on the spread between the private jet charter price and the operator's offer.

How Does Tapjets Work?

When we say "We just happen to have a private jet ready to go when you are" we genuinely mean it.

Using our mobile app or web, you can instantly locate a private plane that would be at your departure airport or close to it on the date and time of your departure.

We then perform an extensive real-time safety audit on the aircraft and the aircraft operator.

The results are grouped by aircraft category from Turbo-props to Long Range (Heavy) jets and presented to you for instant booking.

With just a few taps or clicks, you will be able to pay for your booking and receive immediate confirmation. With few more taps, you can add your travel companions, and you are all set and ready to head to the airport.

When booking your private jet charter service from us, you are leveraging technology to score a private charter flight directly for the air carrier. The process eliminates air charter broker from being a go-between you and your private jet rental.

There are over 1096 air charter service companies in the United States By using an aggregator platform such as TapJets you get the best, safest, and most cost-conscious options for your trip.

Brought to you by our ability to track movement, calendar information, and over 82 other data feeds to ensure that our clients receive the best possible options available.

This is just the beginning, please check out empty leg Flight Auctions and other benefits of our platform.

Updated: May 17, 2019

 

How much does it cost to fly using a private jet?

You can expect to pay between $2,000 - $10,000 per flying hour. It varies, and multiple factors are affecting the cost. These include but are not limited to aircraft category (turboprop, light jet, heavy jet), aircraft type (refers to the model), age of the aircraft, and billable flight time. Bigger jets are more expensive than smaller ones. Also, there are aircraft models that have high market demand because of their efficiency and overall history. In addition, the rental rate for newly chartered aircraft costs higher per hour than the older ones ($100-$100). Lastly, billable flight times include positioning fees, and it has to comply with the industry standard, which is at least 2 hours per day flight time.

How hard is it to start a private jet charter company?

Private jet charter is a highly regulated operation. To start, you need access to aircraft which are well maintained and can pass conformity inspection. You would have to recruit the required personnel, including the Director of Operations, the Director of Maintenance, and the Chief Pilot. Your team and you will have to petition the FAA to receive operational approval under FAR Part 135 regulations. This process takes around 12-18 months to complete. During this time, you will develop your operational and training manuals, train your crews, and complete due diligence assessment with your assigned FAA inspector team.  The process culminates with the issuance of Operational Specifications that allow you to start carrying paying passengers.

What sort of people fly in private jets?

A study conducted by an airport flight support team showed that the regular private jet traveler is male, mainly about the '40s, flying most of the time for business purposes and usually with four other people on board. Fort Lauderdale Executive, Miami-Opa Locka Airport, and Teterboro Executive Airport are the most notable airports. Interestingly, the study shows that most people flying private are not on the luxurious side of life (like celebrities), but ordinary people looking for lighter and economic jets that go hand in hand with their travel necessities. At Tapjets.com, we are dedicated to finding the right solution for your travel needs.

Do private jet passengers need visas?

If you are traveling within the US borders only, then no. However, if you are traveling internationally, the immigration rules of the country you are traveling to apply still. Therefore, you may need to secure your visa and other documents necessary for the flight. The private jet operator will then coordinate these documents to the airport authorities.

What is it like to be a flight attendant for private planes?

When you are a flight attendant for a private plane, you get to connect with your passengers up close. You can be on duty for a month or so and then off duty for the same amount of time. You may be asked to report to work anytime when you are in standby mode. Your schedule for the following month is unpredictable. The workload is less than in commercial aviation, and you get paid much more. You may also get tips from the passengers. If the passengers stayed somewhere and they needed you for the whole trip, then you must be there as well. You are traveling, exploring the world, and you get paid doing so.

Is a private jet a good long term investment?

Aircraft ownership can have significant benefits for some people. It's essential to understand the usage that you will be making of the aircraft before investing in one to buy. If you fly more than 300 hours per year, owning an aircraft is likely something that will benefit you. If you are flying less than 300 hours, you most likely have other alternatives that would be less expensive and less burdensome.

What does it feel like to fly on a private jet?

Flying in private makes you feel more relaxed and enjoy the moment. You don't have to deal with long lines and endless waiting at gates and terminals because you can set your schedule and choose the most convenient airport to fly to. You don't have to adjust with your fellow passengers because you get to choose who you want to fly with. You can work in peace and be more productive because most private jets are Wi-Fi-ready. Surprisingly, sometimes flying in private costs less than a first-class ticket on a commercial flight, especially if you take advantage of the one-way flights that are available or empty legs. Lastly, you can request in-flight dining.

Do people smoke on private jets?

It depends. Some private jet operators/owners allow smoking onboard, and some are not. It is essential to understand that each aircraft has different operational policies of what is not permitted onboard. Here at TapJets, our client services team will make sure to match your personal preferences with the right aircraft to make your private flight experience exactly how you want it. We respect everyone’s personal preferences. Let us know ahead of time, and we will arrange your private flight accordingly.

Can I book a private jet online? Where and how?

Yes! Open your browser and go to Tapjets.com.

When you are on the website, refer to the INSTANT PRIVATE JET BOOKING table. Fill in the FROM, TO, ARRIVAL, and PASSENGERS fields. Finally, click SEARCH. We also have 24/7 AI chat/phone support that can assist you in the booking process.

Why isn't there an Airbnb for private jets?

Unlike your vacation home or spare bedroom, aircraft charter or private jet rental is highly regulated for safety reasons.  Each aircraft must be maintained and regularly inspected per the rules and regulations established by the aviation administration and the manufacturer. These folks are responsible for maintaining the plane you are flying or leasing to the highest safety ratings.  This also involves that only a limited group of people (operators) fly and oversee the management of this aircraft. However, you can still have an Airbnb booking experience by using platforms such as TapJets.  Out mobile app allows you to instantly book one of the safe and well-maintained private jets for your next private charter in less than one minute.

How much should a private jet cost to rent?

You can expect to pay between $2,000 - $10,000 per flying hour. It varies, and multiple factors are affecting the cost. These include but are not limited to aircraft category (turboprop, light jet, heavy jet), aircraft type (refers to the model), age of the aircraft, and billable flight time. Bigger jets are more expensive than smaller ones. Also, there are aircraft models that have high market demand because of their efficiency and overall history. In addition, the rental rate for newly chartered aircraft costs higher per hour than the older ones ($100-$100). Lastly, billable flight times include positioning fees, and it has to comply with the industry standard, which is at least 2 hours per day flight time.

Is there a federal no-fly list for private jet owners?

TSA requires all charter operators who operate private jets weighing more than 12,500 pounds (this is pretty much every light, mid, and long-range private jet charter) to participate in the Twelve Five Standard Security Program. Among many other security requirements, each passenger must be vetted against a national no fly list that is regularly maintained and updated by the Department of Homeland Security. 

What are the benefits of flying in a private jet?

When you fly in private jets, you can set the schedule. You can go to your destination faster. It's also more convenient because you are the priority of the trip. The jet doesn't leave you. If you show up a little late, the aircraft operator will adjust, unlike commercial flights wherein the aircraft leaves when the airline operator wants to go. You can turn up 10 minutes before your flight, and you will be lounged at a luxurious terminal. You don't have to worry about getting a good seat because the aircraft is all for yourself.  At your destination, you can have ground transport prepared to pick you up. Most importantly, there are routes that you can take advantage of that are not yet offered in commercial flights.

How can a private jet carry a car?

The private jet must be of the same size as the Airbus A300. 

This aircraft boasts a range of almost five thousand miles and can cater around two-hundred and fifty. It is built and modified enough to fit a cargo. It is important to note that there are private jets of the same size and capacity as the Airbus A300.

Is a private jet worth it?

Yes! Private jets are worth it! Private jetting offers a great deal of convenience and luxury a commercial flight can't provide. When you fly in private, you get to escape the hassles of dealing with the crowd at the airport. It's also a time saver since you get to set up your timetable. Significantly, you are not affected by flight delays or layovers. Chartered flights are designed to give passengers a more personalized experience. For example, you may request a flight attendant on board and have in-flight dining (and can also ask for the specific food you want to eat). More than that, you also have access to technology and other entertainment. Lastly, you can move around freely since there are fewer passengers.

Is a boarding pass required to board a private jet?

No. Boarding passes are not required when flying in private. We take care of everything for you. During the booking process, we'll send you or your broker the itinerary of your flight. This includes but is not limited to reservation form, preflight notices, company handling agent, flight crew, tail number of your aircraft, driving directions to the FBO, and ground transportation detail (if requested). If you are traveling with your pets, make sure to bring all necessary documents, such as the pet's passport with a unique microchip number (for international travel) and veterinarian immunization records.

Can a commercial pilot also fly private charters?

Yes. assuming that the pilot has been properly trained and certified for the type of the private jet he is going to fly.  In most cases, light, mid, and long range jets will limit commercial pilots to First Officer duty.  Airline Transport Pilot rating and experience is required in order to fulfill Captain or Pilot in Command duties on your private jet flight.

How much does it cost to charter a jet?

You can expect to pay between $2,000 - $10,000 per flying hour. It varies, and multiple factors are affecting the cost. These include but are not limited to aircraft category (turboprop, light jet, heavy jet), aircraft type (refers to the model), age of the aircraft, and billable flight time. Bigger jets are more expensive than smaller ones. Also, there are aircraft models that have high market demand because of their efficiency and overall history. In addition, the rental rate for newly chartered aircraft costs higher per hour than the older ones ($100-$100). Lastly, billable flight times include positioning fees, and it has to comply with the industry standard, which is at least 2 hours per day flight time.

What's it like to charter a private jet?

You can set your schedule and choose the most convenient airport to fly to when flying in private. You can talk freely without worrying about privacy invasion since you are surrounded by the people you choose to bring on board. You can get work done in peace and comfort since most private jets are equipped with Wi-Fi.  A passport is usually not necessary (provided that you will travel within the US only). If you plan to charter a plane to an international city, the immigration laws of that country still apply. You can bring your pet with you. You’re not limited to the same airplane food you’re likely to get on commercial flights. Passengers can request almost any meal they want.

Are dogs allowed on private jet charters?

Yes. Generally speaking, pets are allowed to travel by their owners on private jet flights. However, the owner must secure the necessary documentation, such as the pet's passport with a unique microchip number (for international travel) and veterinarian immunization records. It must be correct and up-to-date. There may be differences for the specific country you are visiting. For example, in the UK, your pet should be vaccinated against rabies and wormed at least 24 hours before departure. It is best to check the destination country's requirements for the pet arriving. TapJets' Client Services team works closely with operators, airports, and other agencies to ensure that the process is as transparent and straightforward as possible in each location.

TapJets Price Guarantee for Charter Flights

TapJets platform looks at over 1700+ aircraft that are available for charter on your specified dates at the time you are making a reservation. We believe that the price we offer is the lowest possible price for your trip. If you find a charter aircraft for less, we will match the price and give you an additional 5% discount. Our price match rules are simple. It has to be for the same type of aircraft (i.e., Hawker 800XP), same route of travel, same time and same dates. Price guarantee does not apply to "empty leg" pricing that some operators offer via our auction or other means.

How is Tapjets Different?

Unlike charter services, TapJets doesn't require membership fees, cards or rely on end-to-end outsourcing. We are with you every step of the way.

Another unique benefit for Tapjets customers is that they only pay for the time they fly.  The clock starts from the time you boarded the plane and the engines are started and ends at your destination when engines are shut down.  For more details, you can visit our charter contract document.  No other company offers customers the flexibility of paying only for the actual time flown.

Safety Audits for Each Flight - Wyvern PASS Report

Each flight booked on TapJets platform is subject to a safety audit prior to your departure. We partnered with Wyvern Consulting that provides TapJets with real-time access to pilot experience and background checks, aircraft certification, valid insurance policy, and air-carrier credentials. A written audit report is available to our customers at no charge before every flight.

PASS stands for Pilot and Aircraft Safety Survey.  This real-time report confirms the following information:

  • Verification that a charter operator holds a current Air Operating Certificate
  • Verification that the aircraft being chartered is listed on the air carrier's Operations Specifications
  • Confirmation of current insurance for the aircraft
  • Confirmation that each crew member's experience meets a specific safety standard
  • Confirmation that each crew member's medical and license information is current
  • Confirmation that operator has Civil Aviation Authority approval for international operations at chosen locations

Wyvern Consulting was the first aircraft safety auditing firm in the country. Providing services to operators in the U.S. and some parts of Europe, the company offers different levels of audits that comply with industry standards. Registered Operator is its entry-level program in which operators have their records on file in the due diligence-related Registered Standard PASS Program that Wyvern’s corporate, operator and broker clients have access to before a flight. Following the entry-level tier is the Wingman Standard, which only a fraction of operators maintains. Operators at this level adhere to specific processes and parameters that reflect the latest safety best practices. In May 2016, about 150 operators worldwide were members of the Wingman program.

How to add TapJets Concierge to #Slack?

You can add TapJets Bot to your Slack workspace. TapJets Bot can look up flights, provide you with a quote, and finalize your booking.

Simply click on the "Add to Slack" button below  

Add to Slack

Jet Card Questions

Are Jet Cards always available?

Our Jet Cards are available to our VIP clients on an invitation basis only. Reach out to our team to discuss your eligibility for the program.

Do international destinations have special requirements for COVID?

Yes, some locations still do, so international destinations requiring QR or other COVID-related documentation need 72- hours advance booking.

What is the cost per hour of a Heavy Jet Card?

A heavy Jet Card costs $12,500 per hour and is available in packages of 25 or 50 hours.

Explain your program for purchasing a JetCard with Cryptocurrency?

Our industry-changing program allows loading your JetCard with 25 or 50 hours of flight time with Bitcoin or Ethereum. Payments by other methods are available. Ask our team for more details.

What is the cost per hour for a Midsize Jet Card?

A Midsize Jet Card costs $8,700 per hour and is available in packages of 25 and 50 hours.

Are all flights' safety rated?

We book all domestic flights with ARGUS or Wyvern Safety Audited and Rated operators. International flights are highly vetted to TapJets standards but might not have an official Argus or Wyvern certification.

How much notice is needed to book an International flight?

For international flights, booking a flight requires 32-hour advanced notice. When possible, TapJets will work to provide options in less time, but 32 hours' notice guarantees availability.

Does TapJets spend my money before I take the actual flights?

 Absolutely not! TapJets keeps the money in a custody account until your flight is complete.

Are there daily flight time minimums?

Daily flight time minimums apply. They are 1 hour per leg and 2 hours per day.

Do international flights require any additional fees?

International destinations (except Bahamas, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean) will incur landing, timeslot, and Euro control fees applicable to the destination country. Additional VAT may apply for travel within EU destinations.

If I book a trip, is it possible to cancel?

One-way and multi-leg trips are not refundable once confirmed. All domestic flights require 72-hour notice and international flights require 120-hour notice for a full refund.

How are overnight charges billed?

We will bill overnight charges (excluding the first day) separately based on the type of jet and crew size.

Is the Jet Card refundable?

The program purchase is not refundable; any remaining hours at the end of twelve months convert to the dollar equivalent for future on-demand charter.

Are there any blackout dates that I can't use my card?

TapJets is proud to offer the only card with No blackout dates. We do require 120-hour notice for peak holidays or events

Are rates the same for trips to Alaska and Hawaii?

Standard rates apply to all domestic flights (Excluding Hawaii and Alaska), Bahamas, Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean. Quotes for Alaska, Hawaii, and other international locations are on a trip-by-trip basis.

Am I responsible for re-positioning fees?

There are no re-positioning fees for flights in the US and the Bahamas.

How much notice is needed to book a domestic flight?

For flights in the United States, booking a flight requires 10-hour advanced notice. When possible, TapJets will work to provide options in less time, but 10 hours' notice guarantees availability.

How long is the Jet card valid?

The Jet Card rates are valid for 12 months from the execution and payment of the Jet Card agreement. Any remaining hours after 12 months convert to dollar equivalent for future on-demand charter.

Am I responsible for landing fees?

The Jet Card includes first-day landing and overnight fees. The cardholder is responsible for any other fees.

How are flight hours calculated?

Flight hours round to the nearest 1/10th, including 10 minutes of taxi time per leg.

Is transportation included?

The TapJets Card offers complimentary SUV or Black Car transportation at the destination airport. Our 24x7 concierge is available to handle any request while on your trip.

Is there insurance provided with the Jet Card?

Yes, we offer insurance on all trips. Speak to your concierge for details after your flight is scheduled.

Booking Questions

How can you reach Concierge?

The Concierge is in touch at any time. You can quickly contact him by phone number 213-394-3910 or text to email address concierge@tapjets.com. Always welcome!

Why don’t we sell seats on the plane?

TapJets is directly involved in the lease of an entire aircraft, and it is not profitable both for you and us. You rent a whole plane, and during the flight, you become a full host on board.

How to view a quote?

In your App account or Website account, you can find the «My quotes» section, then click to the «View Quotes» icon, where you can familiarize yourself with all the details on the quota and send them to your email or print.

Why is TapJets able to book instantly?

Instant booking is our primary concern. We try to make your trip as easy as possible. You don’t need to fill out and sign papers. You book a flight through the application or the website in a couple of seconds. Time is money.

FAR Part 135 Operators and You

What is FAR Part 135?

FAR stands for Federal Aviation Regulations. These are the rules prescribed by the Federal Aviation Administration or FAA. These rules regulate most aviation-related activities, from commercial and private aviation to hot-air ballooning and drone flying. The FARs promote safe aviation for everyone included.

FAR Part 135 lays out the rules for the operators, or as stated in the FAR "Operating Requirements: Commuter and On-Demand Operations and Rules Governing Persons on Board Such Aircraft". It only applies to the aircraft that have 30 or fewer seats or have a maximum payload capacity of 7,500 pounds. This means it applies to most private jets.

What types of Part 135 operators are there?

The operator that meets all necessary conditions and has a Part 135 certificate becomes a Part 135 operator. This is not an easy task - as the Part 135 safety standards are often very high and exceed minimum government requirements.

There are four groups of Part 135 operators:

Single Pilot

This certificate allows the use of only one pilot for all operations.

Single Pilot in Command (PIC)

This certificate allows the use of one PIC and a maximum of three Second in Command pilots (SIC). The pilots can only perform their specific duties and can't trade positions. The certificate allows operation of an aircraft with 9 seats or less. The flights are limited to the USA, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. 

Basic

This certificate allows up to 5 pilots, including SICs; a maximum of 5 aircraft, and a maximum of 3 types of aircraft; aircraft must be with 9 seats or less. The flights are limited to the USA, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Standard

This certificate doesn't have any restrictions. The operators must be authorized by the FAA for all their operations and they must develop and maintain manuals, training programs, and have the required management positions.

What are the benefits of flying with a Part 135 operator?

The Part 135 operators are the best safety-wise. The pilots are required to have a minimum of 500 total flight hours, 100 cross-country flight hours and 25 night, and cross-country flight hours. The duty time of pilots is strictly regulated to make sure they are always well-rested. The pilots are required to have 10 hours of rest time in-between flights. The aircraft have to pass regular maintenance and usually obtain third-party safety certificates like ARG/US, Wyvern, and IS-BAO.

To put it shortly - exceptional safety.

Do you have a privacy policy?

Yes, you can acquaint with our privacy policy to click here.

What is Concierge Service?

A concierge can assist with all kinds of work-related tasks such as to order a taxi, catering, carrying of stuff, and whatever you need.

How Early or Late Can I Book a Flight?

Tapjets is available on-demand around the clock.  Using the app, you can order your flight in as little as two hours before departure. However, aircraft availability and position changes constantly so booking in advance gives you the largest price and selection flexibility.

Does The Price Include Taxes and Fees?

The prices shown in our app is for the entire flight for the aircraft, crew, fuel, landing fees, airport fees, and any other items associated with your flight.  What the price does not include and is shown separately is Federal Exercise Tax (FET)  of 7.5% and Passenger Segment Fee. of $4/per person.  We are required by the government to collect these fees in addition to your purchase price. You will see these amounts on details section of your booking screen.

How Do I Give a Gift Voucher?

The best way to introduce your friends to TapJets is to give them a gift of flight.   By sending your personal voucher code your friends will be able to deduct $500 or 10% of their flight (whichever is less).

As a token of our appreciation, whenever your friend uses the voucher you have sent, we will also give you a $500 voucher towards your future travel. You can use this credit on any future flight, or you can collect lots of credits and pay for the entire flight.

The only limitation we have on these vouchers is that your friend can only use this type of voucher once.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to give us a call.

You can check your account balance in your mobile app or web app under My Account.

Paying with Bitcoin

TapJets accepts Bitcoin as a form of payment for your flight. When using our web or mobile application, you will be able to select Bitcoin (BTC) as your form of payment. Once you complete your booking, we will email you our BTC payment information and our system will be monitoring BTC wallet for the arrival of your payment. When we receive the coins, we will send you final confirmation for your flight with all of the airport and terminal (FBO) details.

Please note that Bitcoin payments may take up to 6 hours to confirm. If you are departing within 24 hours of your order, please contact our office to follow up on our receipt of the funds.

Paying with Wire Transfer

TapJets accepts Wire Transfers as a form of payment for your flight. When using our web or mobile application, you will be able to select Wire Transfer as your form of payment. Once you complete your booking, we will email you Wire Transfer information and our system will be monitoring our account for the receipt of your payment. When we receive the payment, we will send you the final confirmation for your flight with all of the airport and terminal (FBO) details.

Please note that Wire Transfers take up to 48 hours to reach our account. If your departing within these times you may need to select another form of payment. For same-day wire transfers, please contact our office for assistance.

About Your Private Jet Flight

Do you have Wi-Fi onboard?

It’s for those people who can’t imagine their life without the Internet. We ensure its presence on the plane upon request because not all the jets have Internet access. Also, keep in mind, the availability of the Internet can change the cost of your flight.

Is it available to have a conference onboard?

Business jets create all the comfortable and necessary conditions for work onboard. Also, during the flight, customers can negotiate among themselves or with partners. If you need a conference table, a video conference, we can provide it upon request.

Why charter a private jet for you and your pet?

Many people can’t imagine their life without flying with their beloved pets. TapJets provides the opportunity to travel with animals. Just leave us a request, and we will make it happen. Easy!

What TapJets does to ensure safety of my flight?

Safety is in our DNA, and as a technology company, it is in our code, on our servers, and with you on-board of each flight.   Our founders with stellar careers as airline captains with over 40,000 hours of flight time each at United and American have infused their zero-tolerance for errors approach for every flight that we book for you.  We believe in a system of risk identification (symptoms), and mitigation before trip ever departs. 

With over 1100 companies operating private jets in the USA alone, without automation, this task is daunting, so we built a system that consistently ensures compliance.  Here is a brief look at how it works: 

Before we allow you to schedule an aircraft from your smartphone, we assure that the company that operates the flight is in good standing with FAA and or ICAO regulators  We verify their insurance policy to see if their coverage is current and sufficient. We look at their claims history to see if any concerns may be related to safety.  We then take a close automated look at their financials, credit reports, and tax filings.  Any signs of trouble in finances could mean shortcomings in maintenance or training of crews.  

Once the aircraft is assigned to your flight, we subject it to an automated audit of it's flying history. We look for any incident history, prior mechanical issues, time in service, refurbishments, and any possible maintenance items that may be due before your flight.  We also look to see if any flights were "canceled" due to maintenance issues on this aircraft. 

As soon as a crew is assigned to your flight, our systems automatically gather the information about their experience, making sure they are appropriately qualified for the type of aircraft they are flying, that they have flown sufficient hours in this particular type of aircraft, that their training is recent and finally that they hold proper medical certification.  Finally, we look back at the last 24 hours of the crew to ensure that they had adequate rest to conduct your flight. 

We have partnered with Wyvern LLC to fetch some of this information from their proprietary PASS system.  We also connect to government databases from FAA and ICAO, private maintenance tracking systems, operator scheduling systems, aircraft tracking systems, credit reporting systems, and many other data sources so that we can consistently, accurately, and efficiently make sure that we know absolutely everything about the safety of your flight before it takes off.   As a result, if there is a concern, we will make sure you know about it, and we take steps to resolve it way before it becomes a safety issue. 

How Early Should I Arrive?

You should plan to be at the airport 15 minutes before your departure. You will receive a flight confirmation with directions to a private airport terminal. The Same information is available in your mobile app My Trips section.  If you are running late, please let us know as soon as possible.  If we don't hear from you, we may depart to our next flight 60 minutes after your original departure time.

Can you bring firearms on a private jet flight or hunting trip?

So you are planning a hunting trip, and you’ve secured a private jet charter directly to the ranch’s private airstrip. Can you bring your guns with you?

The short answer is Yes all you have to do is ask. But here is a more detailed explanation that will get you checked in and on your way without any delays.

Flying with firearms is legal and relatively easy with some preparation on your part. Know the laws, rules, and regulations, have your luggage set up correctly, and above all have a friendly attitude.

Rule #1. Please let us know ahead that you will be bringing firearms. We will work with the operator to ensure everyone is aware of the precious cargo.

Rule #2. No concealed and loaded guns in the cabin. If the airplane is small and you can assess baggage, then triggers must be locked, or weapons must be in cases.

Rule #3. Guns, rifles, or any other device that shoots must be unloaded and in its own case. Ammunition should be in separate containers or boxes. There should be no loose ammunition.

Rule #4. You must check with the County, State, or the Country to where you are going about their rules and regulations related to bringing guns to their jurisdiction. You are responsible for knowing the laws and regulations.

Following these simple rules will allow you to enjoy your hunting trip or have your personal protection with you when you arrive at your destination.

TAPJETS REWARDS Questions

How to send $500 promo code to your friend?

If you want to make your friend happy, you can find in your profile the Free Flights section, and then you will get your Promo Link, which you can easily copy and send. Keep in mind, every time your friends use your voucher code, they get $500 credit towards their flight. Once they complete their journey, we will add $500 to your account with TapJets. Your credits can be used to pay for any of our private jet charter flights.

What is TAPJETS REWARDS?

Effective April 15, 2018, TapJets will offer our clients the ultimate private jet loyalty program: TAPJETS™ REWARDS.  The program is custom-built to recognize and reward our customers’ continued loyalty to TapJets through valuable rewards and exclusive perks.

TapJets™ Rewards provides all of the benefits of a jet card or fractional membership, but without the need to make any up-front purchases or costly membership fees. Instead, our customers enjoy direct access to the largest virtual fleet of aircraft operated by top-tier, FAA-certified air carriers. You simply pay for the time you fly and get rewarded based on how often you travel with us.

As an added benefit, we’ve retroactively qualified the 2017 flight hours of our existing customers for 2018 rewards tier status.

TAPJETS REWARDS Tiers and Program Details

TapJets™ Rewards Details

Enthusiast

     25 hours of flight time (in any aircraft type)

     Reward – 1 Rewards Hour*

  • As always, guaranteed in-app aircraft pricing and availability
  • Ability to select a specific aircraft model (if more than one is available for your trip)
  • 24x7 Access to our Global Concierge Hotline to assist you with any travel-related matters
  • Ability to trade your FREE hours to any other aircraft category at a fixed exchange rate.

Aficionado

     75 hours of flight time (in any aircraft type)

     Reward – 4 Rewards Hours*

  • All Enthusiast benefits, plus…
  • $100 in ground transportation credits for every flight
  • Guaranteed aircraft availability for special events
  • Early access to our most competitive Flight Auctions

 Connoisseur

     200 hours of flight time (in any aircraft type)

      Reward – 12 Rewards Hours*

  • All Enthusiast and Aficionado benefits, plus…
  • Free ground transportation to and from airport locations
  • Free catering for every flight over two hours
  • Ability to combine flight reward hours from several travelers in your family or company

*Same aircraft type or trade up to larger type from Propeller, Light Jet, Midsize Jet, or Long-Range Jet

TAPJETS REWARDS Rules and Conditions

Rules and Conditions:  TapJets Rewards Tier eligibility is based on hours flown in one calendar year.  Reward Hours expire in 24 months from receipt. If you decide to upgrade to a different size of aircraft (or downgrade), hours can be traded based on market value of the flight hours. The member who acquired the Reward Hours must be on board the flights that are flown using Rewards Hours. 

Rewards Hours:  Rewards Hours are accrued based on your most typically used aircraft type (e.g. if you typically fly midsize jets, your Rewards Hours will be redeemable for midsize flight time). However, we’re giving you the flexibility to transfer your rewards hours at fixed rates if you wish to upgrade and maximize your reward. See table below: 

 

Traveling with pets

Can I buy my pet a seat on a plane?

You rent the whole jet, so it’s your party, and only you decide where your pets will sit!

Can a pet be cage-free on board?

Yes, your pet can be in any place comfortable for them and you.

Is it possible to fly with animals?

Of course! We adore your pets almost as much as you do. Just keep in mind that you should let us know prior, so we find a suitable jet for you and your furry friends. Also, it would help if you were sure that a place where you go accepts your pet, especially if it is an exotic one.

Obviously, you need to have all the necessary animal vaccinations and a veterinary passport (especially for international flights).

How much does it cost to fly with an animal?

It depends on the air carrier you fly with. Some air carriers may charge an additional fee, but most air carriers are pet-friendly and don't charge anything. If your pet damages the jet, the cost of transportation will include it.

What size pet can you fly with?

The pet size doesn’t matter. Cat, dog or an exotic pet - all are welcome aboard! The main thing is that it shouldn’t exceed the size of the aircraft.

If you don't see what you're looking for above, please contact us.