A private shared flight typically refers to a flight where individuals or groups who do not know each other beforehand share the same private aircraft for a specific journey. This arrangement allows passengers to split the cost of chartering the aircraft, making private air travel more accessible and cost-effective compared to traditional private chartering.
Here's how it generally works:
1. Chartering the Aircraft: A private aircraft (like a jet or turboprop) is booked for a specific trip by one or more individuals or groups. The entire aircraft is chartered for the journey.
2. Sharing the Cost: Instead of one party bearing the full cost of chartering the aircraft, multiple parties share the cost. Each passenger pays a portion of the total charter cost based on the number of seats they occupy.
3. Sharing the Flight: Passengers on a private shared flight may not know each other beforehand. They are brought together by their shared interest in traveling to the same destination on the same date and time.
4. Flexibility: Private shared flights offer more flexibility than scheduled commercial flights. Passengers can often choose departure times and even departure locations (from smaller, more convenient airports) based on their needs.
5. Privacy and Comfort: While sharing the flight with strangers, private shared flights still offer a level of privacy and comfort that's superior to commercial airlines. Passengers can enjoy amenities such as spacious seating, personalized service, and reduced hassle associated with larger airports.
6. Booking and Arrangements: Typically, passengers interested in a private shared flight would contact a private charter company or a platform that facilitates shared private flights. The platform matches passengers based on their travel plans, and arrangements are made for the charter accordingly.
Private shared flights cater to individuals or small groups who want the convenience and exclusivity of private air travel without the high costs associated with chartering an entire aircraft independently. It's a way to access the benefits of private aviation while sharing the expenses with others traveling on the same route.