Private jet charter at Christmas and New Year

With the festive holiday season fast approaching, here's everything you need to know about chartering and private jet pricing during Christmas and New Year.

The PrivateFly team will be available 24 hours over the festive period on 
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Are private jet airports open on Christmas Day or New Year's Day?

Christmas and New Year opening times vary by airport. In general, private jet airports that also operate scheduled airlines operations will be open, but the majority will be adopting bank holiday opening hours or further restrictions.

Some dedicated private jet airports and smaller airfields will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Higher surcharges may also apply on landing and handling fees.

Outside of these days, the majority of private jet airports remain open for business across the Christmas and New Year period.

Check opening hours for any airport worldwide by calling us on {{telephone}}

How is private jet charter pricing affected over the Christmas period?

The cost of private jet charter can vary according to several factors including aircraft availability, the positioning required, and the landing and handling fees associated with the flight.

Although the hourly rate for private jet charter does not generally increase on peak days, the overall cost of the flight may be affected by increased airport and handling fees and reduced availability.

All prices quoted from PrivateFly are fully inclusive of fees and you can see average market pricing for any itinerary via our cost calculator.

Can a private jet fly in the snow?

If you're planning a flight in Europe or in other winter climates this Christmas, travel disruption can be a major worry for many people. A white Christmas can be a picturesque prospect if you're at home to enjoy it, but not for those travelling on holiday or for reunions with family and friends over the festive period.

Last winter, heavy snowfalls, ice and sub zero temperatures meant travel chaos for thousands of airline passengers who were left stranded after major airports closed and airlines cancelled flights. Similarly there was major air travel disruption for the East Coast of the US.

Obviously extreme weather conditions impact private aviation too but by using more airports, flexible scheduling, and an agile global network of over 7,000 aircraft means that PrivateFly can keep private jet passengers moving when airlines are frozen and grounded. See our blog on Can a private jet fly in the snow

What happens if my private jet needs de-icing?

If private jets are left outside and exposed to the winter weather, they may become covered in ice and snow. It is a legal requirement to remove all the ice and snow to ensure aircraft safety before the aircraft can take off.

De-icing costs can be minimised or avoided if hangar space is available, however during the peak Christmas and New Year period it may not always be possible for an aircraft to secure hangar space, especially for overnight or longer parking periods.

De-icing costs are an additional charge, paid by the aircraft charterer. This is the only extra charge not included in your PrivateFly contract, and will be invoiced at cost price, if required. PrivateFly offers a De-icing waiver as an insurance and peace of mind against these potential charges. For more information see PrivateFly de-icing policy

Can I still book a private flight at short notice during Christmas and New Year?

PrivateFly is business as usual during the Christmas and New Year period. We can still arrange private flights at short notice during the festive holiday period, but we recommend you allow extra booking time where possible to ensure aircraft availability.

Air charter flight enquiries and bookings can be arranged via our website, apps, or our dedicated operations team by email or phone on {{telephone}} 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.