Bookings across the private aviation industry have surged, affecting the availability of private jet travelers’ preferred aircraft, crews, and ground transportation. While some competitors may have peak travel days as part of their programs, Magellan Jets does not; our jet card owners and pay-as-you-go members have the benefit of assured aircraft availability and call-out times as low as eight hours. High flight volume during the spring and summer can cause headaches for private flyers who haven’t secured their travel in advance. Magellan Jets recommends booking your private flights early to ensure you get the most out of your travel experience. When you book early, you will:
Magellan Jets works with only a select group of the highest quality aircraft and flight crews, sourced from our Magellan Jets Preferred Network. We operate the world’s most comprehensive service and safety management and quality assurance system, providing real-time, world-wide audit status of over 2,500 carefully selected aircraft and over 11,250 specifically chosen crew members. When you book your private travel early, you’ll take the full advantage of the infrastructure and team that will work to secure the aircraft and crew that best fit your travel needs.
PERSONALIZE YOUR IN-FLIGHT EXPERIENCE
Whether you’re traveling to reconnect with family, to get away for a holiday weekend, or for a special event such as a birthday or anniversary, Magellan Jets’ Guest Experience team is dedicated to ensuring your perfect experience begins as soon as you step foot on your aircraft. Book private flights early to ensure more time for us to get to know you, and to allow us to prepare thoughtful, tailored in-flight experiences for you, your family, your guests-and even your pets! From providing multi-course meals with your favorite champagne vintage to throwing surprise parties for your children and beyond, advance notice helps us make your in-flight experience one to remember.
ENSURE SEAMLESS GROUND TRANSPORTATION
It isn’t just aircraft availability that is affected by high travel volume-ground transportation is becoming hard to book, too, and that doesn’t look to change anytime soon. Forbes has referred to the situation as a “car rental apocalypse,” and reported that, for one customer looking for a last-minute SUV rental, $700 a day was the lowest price they could find. This is in part because rental car agencies were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and sold off large portions of their fleet, leaving them unprepared once travel began to pick back up. Booking as early as possible gives us more advance time to secure your ground transportation, so you can get where you’re going once you land.
Our Guest Experiences team won’t stop at making your in-flight experience perfect. Think of us as your own personal, purely private travel agency, showing you where to go and what to see once you’ve arrived at your destination. Advance booking allows for a smooth and seamless onboarding process to introduce you to all the incredible amenities at your disposal. Just as booking early helps lock down your preferred in-flight experience, it also ensures we tap into the best in accommodations and activities at your destination on your behalf, whether that means providing assistance with planning a memorable itinerary, making restaurant or hotel reservations, arranging private tours, or simply booking a spa day or tee time.
Access Added Benefits Through Top Hospitality Brands
Magellan Jets is proud to work with a network of top companies, brands, and collaborators to elevate your travel experience. Guests who fly with Magellan will enjoy a variety of exclusive and complimentary benefits with our partners around the globe-from yacht credits with IYC, operator of the world’s largest yacht charter fleet, to a full-day cabana at the Beach Club at Lovango, the U.S. Virgin Islands’ newest luxury resort. Book now to take advantage of our partners’ offers before they expire.
With private jet charter, travelers are at the whim of market pricing when booking their flights. When demand rises, you will end up paying more for your trip. Booking far in advance ensures you’ll take advantage of lower rates, rather than paying more for the same trip when booking last minute.
Utilize Your Full booking Platform At Your Fingertips
When you fly with Magellan Jets, you’ll get exclusive access to our app, allowing you to book and manage trips seamlessly in just a few clicks. Your app is your safe, secure portal to view your itinerary, select catering and ground transportation, and further edit the details of your flight-all at the convenience of your phone. When you book early, you’ll have all your flight information available in your app weeks before your departure date.
Book Ahead, Enjoy peace of mind
Magellan is dedicated to providing the purely private aviation solutions that are the best fit for our guests. Advance booking helps us match you to the best aircraft, experiences, accommodations, and more-and helps you by ensuring peace of mind amid a surge in travel volume. Ready to book ahead? Call our private aviation consultants now, or click below to search flights today.
How Magellan Jets Monitors International Travel Rules
In the wake of COVID-19, most countries also have health forms, testing requirements and other restrictions in place. The Magellan Jets team actively monitors destinations and hotspots, keeping track of regulations so you and your guests know ahead of time on what’s needed in order to visit a getaway.
“Especially with COVID-19, there are a lot of additional restrictions that are in place,” says Director of Flight Support Ryan Foss. “You can still travel to these locations, but there are additional things other than arriving just with your passport. That’s something that we have built a database for, we’re experts in, we’ll do that research on your behalf and we will provide you with exactly what’s needed.”
One of the essential tracking tools that our team uses to review international travel restrictions in real time is COVID Controls. This interactive map offers up-to-date information on every country’s health requirements. You can use the tool to see whether travelers from certain countries are allowed entry to specific countries, what kind of testing is needed, length of quarantine time (if necessary), and more.
Whether you’re headed to another continent, or even just traveling between states and cities in the U.S., the Magellan Jets will always keep you informed on the latest requirements, as we monitor flights and destinations 24/7, 365 days a year, for any possible changes. •Seamless Private Jet Services, On-Demand: Download the Magellan Jets App
Navigating Customs & Other Requirements
Our team works works with Magellan Jets Preferred Network operators to help you find the best aircraft for flying abroad, as well as even file customs, utilizing the passport information your provide to us to make that arrival as smooth as possible. For example, if you’re headed to an island destination like the Bahamas, we have relationships with customs agents there and can make your experience simple and seamless.
Additionally, as experts in international travel restrictions, the Magellan Jets team will also let you know if your pets must meet certain requirements as well in order to enter specific countries and destinations. Whether your furry friend needs a rabies vaccine, or your human guests require negative COVID-19 tests, traveling with Magellan Jets means never having to worry about any last-minute issues, as our team will make sure they are taken care of well in advance of your flight.
Re-entering the united states
Once it’s time to come back into the country from your international destination, you’ll need to take a viral COVID-19 test and provide negative results. This must be done within three days prior to boarding your flight back to the U.S., and our Flight Support department can provide a list of testing locations upon request. Those returning to the United States are also required to fill out a passenger attestation form.
In addition, each returning passenger will be asked to complete our Magellan Health Declaration Form, part of our 5 x 5 PureSky Safety Standard. This can be completed easily through our app, which you can download here.
All travelers returning from an international location are required to follow CDC recommendations to get a COVID test 3-5 days after travel, and to stay home or otherwise self-quarantine for seven days after travel. Reviewing the CDC’s rules about masks on private jet flights will also help you get the best out of your Magellan Jets experience.
Interested in traveling abroad, or need help navigating international travel restrictions? Click below to explore private jet services with Magellan Jets.
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*Information updated March 9, 2021.
When people think of perfect places to spend a vacation with loved ones, Maui is usually near the top of the list. This idyllic Hawaiian escape is both a beacon for beach lovers as well as an incredible area for luxurious resort getaways. Discover all that the island has to offer with Magellan Jets’ destinations guide on how to fly privately to Maui.
PRIVATE JET TRAVELER’S GUIDE TO Maui
POPULAR Maui PRIVATE JET ROUTES
As a seaside escape with so much natural beauty to explore, Maui has several popular routes frequented by private jet travelers. Here are the top spots Magellan Jets guests fly into the island from, as well as information on recommended aircraft, flight time estimates and more.
Austin TO Maui
Popular FBOs and Private Terminals: For travelers leaving the Austin area, many fly out of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) in Austin, before arriving at Kahului Airport (PHOG) in Maui.
Recommended Aircraft: For flights to Maui from the Austin area, a G450 is recommended.
Flight Time Estimate: Aboard a G450, the estimated flight time is approximately 7.8 hours.
Popular FBOs and Private Terminals: For travelers leaving the Denver area, many fly out of Centennial Airport (APA) in Denver, before arriving at Kahului Airport (PHOG) in Maui.
Recommended Aircraft: For flights to Maui from the Denver area, a G450 is recommended.
Flight Time Estimate: Aboard a G450, the estimated flight time is approximately 7.3 hours.
Popular FBOs and Private Terminals: For travelers leaving the Los Angeles area, many fly out of Van Nuys Airport (VNY) in Los Angeles, before arriving at Kahului Airport (PHOG) in Maui.
Recommended Aircraft: For flights to Maui from the Los Angeles area, a Challenger 300 or Gulfstream GIV are recommended.
Flight Time Estimate: Aboard a Challenger 300 or Gulfstream GIV, the estimated flight time is approximately 5.3 hour.
If you and your party require ground transportation or other needs while traveling to and from your terminal, Magellan Jets’ Guest Services team can easily arrange them for you. Additionally, while you’re in Hawaii, be sure to take advantage of Magellan Jets’ exciting partnership with IYCand charter a private yacht for a bit of seaside fun.
WHERE TO STAY IN Maui
If you’re looking to stay at a premier resort during your trip to Hawaii, there’s no better place to spend vacation than Four SeasonsMaui at Wailea. Offering healthy and sanitized accommodations for both guests and businesses that need safe meeting spaces, Four Seasons utilizes a number of enhanced protocols such as air conditioning units with special UV lights and MERV-13 filters, as well as an on-site medical staff available 24/7.
In addition to their elevated safety precautions, Fours Season has a plethora of fantastic amenities to make your stay more enjoyable. Take in beautiful sunsets each evening from the balcony of your beachside suite or have a day of pampering with body treatments, facials and other luxurious spa services. Don’t forget to experience the resort’s Serenity Pool (named the Best of the Best Resort Swimming Pools by Robb Report) for an after dusk party.
Like its collection of natural wonders, Maui’s fine dining scene is just as diverse (and delicious). As Wailea’s only oceanfront and Zagat-rated restaurant, Four Seasons’ Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante is a must-stop for private jet guests, offering modern Mediterranean and Italian-inspired flavors against a gorgeous, seaside backdrop. Another great place to eat is Mill House in Waikap? Valley. Nestled in the West Maui Forest Reserve, visitors can enjoy a fresh, New American menu with incredible mountainside views.
WHAT TO DO In Maui
For private jet travelers visiting Maui, there’s no shortage of great activities to take part in. Explore volcanoes, waterfalls, rainforests, and more by helicopter with an aerial tour of the island. Maui is also a fantastic destination for whale watching during the winter, as visitors have a chance of seeing the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. Of course, the near endless array of beaches and seaside hangouts make Maui perfect for surfers and other water sports enthusiasts, as well as beachgoers who want to take it easy.
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Flying private with pets has become an increasingly popular way of travel given the safety concerns, as well as strict rules and regulations passengers are subject to on commercial flights. Having your pet treated closer to luggage than a passenger in cargo probably doesn’t sit well with most owners who see their pets as family members. As experts in pet travel, Magellan Jets can schedule rest-stops, place toys on board, and even have crews assigned that are extra pet-friendly. Here are some key things you’ll want to know to ensure your pet has the most comfortable flight experience.
10 Tips for Flying with Pets
1. Check For Proper Vaccinations and Customs Documentations
Vaccinations vary depending on who you are flying with and your destination of choice. Some places can be very lenient and loosely check vaccinations and documentations. However, certain destinations, like Hawaii and international locations, have extremely strict laws regarding pet vaccinations and it can be a challenge to travel with your pet there.
2. Dogs Should Be On a Leash At All Times
Safety is always the most important thing and that does not change when a dog is traveling with you. Whether it be on the ramp to the aircraft or in the air, dogs and other pets able to wander off must either be on a leash or in-hand.
3. There Is a Difference In Regulations For Small and Large Pets
Small pets are often required to be placed in a carrier and strapped in by a seatbelt. Larger pets however, most often considered anything over 150 pounds, have to be counted as passengers because their weight is closer to a person than it is to an animal. Large pets also have to occupy a seat at all times and cannot wander about the plane.
4. It Is Safer For Dogs to Fly With a Body Harness Than a Neck Collar
Although most dogs are brought on airplanes with neck collars, the safest way for them to fly actually is with a body harness. Small dogs may be able to get away with a neck collar given their weight, but larger dogs need a harness to safely keep them in their seat in case of turbulence.
5. A Cabin Attendant Must Accompany Pets Flying Alone
Pets flying alone by private jet can be treated with almost as much attention as a small child. A cabin attendant must accompany the pet at all times and some companies will go to extreme lengths to make the pet feel comfortable while flying. Magellan Jets can make a number of pet-specific accommodations that will make your pet feel right at home.
6. Disclose All Information About Your Pets Beforehand
Most private jet brokers and operators can plan ahead for travel with pets. They can create specific profiles for travelers who frequently bring pets and include them in the itinerary. However, neglecting to notify your operator can cause major confusion, delays and other countless other headaches it they are not prepared for your pets arrival.
7. Check For Proper Safety Equipment For Pets
It is not something most passengers think of, but if for some reason there is a malfunction with your plane while traveling, you’ll want your animal to have access to the necessary safety features. Always check with your operator ahead of time to make sure there is proper safety equipment on board for your pet.
8. Update Your Pet’s ID tags
Traveling is hectic enough and it can get even worse if your dog scurries off while you are checking a bag. It is pretty common for pets to get lost in airports, but it is a quick fix with the proper ID tags.
In many cases, it can be an overwhelming experience for a pet to get on an airplane. The long and, at times, tedious process can take a toll on your pet. Having toys, bowls or anything that will remind your pet of home can distract them from a long flight.
10. Don’t Feed Your Pet Too Much
More often than not, pets can get anxiety or travel sickness while being in an unfamiliar aircraft for an extended period of time. This often results in sickness, and even worse, vomiting. A sick dog on a plane does not make for a fun trip.
Private Jet Pet Services with Magellan Jets
No matter where you are traveling with your pet, it is crucial to go through a necessary checklist to ensure your pet will be as comfortable as you are while traveling. Magellan Jets knows your pet is like family, which is why we treat them that way. Check out our pet friendly jet card ownership, pay-as-you-go membership and on-demand charter options to ensure your pet is not only in good hands, but in your hands!
There’s no shortage of great vacation spots that are just a short hop from the confines of New York City. Start exploring these incredible Northeast destinations with Magellan Jets 10-hour Sikorsky helicopter card, perfect for quick trips to and from the Big Apple. If you need some travel inspiration, here are five awesome places you can visit via private helicopter this season.
5 Great Private Helicopter Destinations
Portland
As one of New England’s most scenic destinations, Portland, Maine, is a true gem of the Northeast. Hop on a private helicopter and head to this easily accessible getaway, which is just under two hours away from New York City. Take in incredible coastal views from Portland’s picturesque shores and make sure to experience the city’s vibrant waterfront.
Martha’s Vineyard
Located off the coast of Cape Cod, this gorgeous Massachusetts island is a premier summer destination for everyone from presidents and dignitaries to sunbathers and beachgoers. Whether you’re looking to play a few rounds of golf before enjoying a fine dining experience or you just want to explore beaches, lighthouses and other outdoor sites, Martha’s Vineyard has something for everyone.
Nantucket
Just a short hop from Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket is another sought after summer hotspot that’s easily accessible via private helicopter. A little over an hour away from New York City, the Massachusetts island is a world-class destination filled with history and luxurious places to stay, such as the breathtaking Cliffside Beach Club. Besides the beautiful beaches, there’s all sorts of fun activities to check out on Nantucket, including its incredible fine-dining scene.
A longtime vacation haven for New Yorkers, The Hamptons remains one of the region’s most popular destinations. Just over a half-an-hour flight via private helicopter from the Big Apple, you can go quickly go from the boardroom to the beach without even leaving the state. Add in the area’s premier collection of luxury hotels and resorts, and you have everything you need for the perfect weekend escape.
Washington D.C.
Make the trip from New York City to the nation’s capital a breeze with your 10-hour Sikorsky helicopter card. Skip the hassle of rail or commercial travel with the ease and convenience of private helicopter service, which can get you to Washington D.C. in just over an hour. Whether you’re going for business or leisure, the city has plenty to offer to keep you and your guests entertained.
Need to get away? Escape to the Wild West of Wyoming with our private jet traveler’s guide to Jackson Hole.
Many celebrities and other high-profile individuals enjoy Jackson Hole for its remote, ranch-style vibe as well as its stunning natural scenery. Visitors also appreciate the destination for its privacy, rustic tranquility and laid-back luxury. Nicknamed the world’s most expensive ski town, it’s a major hot spot for winter sports enthusiasts too.
Want to experience the allure of this world-renowned destination for yourself? Read our ultimate guide for flying private to Jackson Hole.
Jackson Hole Guide: The Ultimate itinerary for Private Jet Travelers
How to fly Private to Jackson Hole
Flying private to Jackson Hole promises a panorama of natural wonders; the valley town is tucked away amidst the Teton Mountains and the pristine landscape of Grand Teton National Park. Booking a private jet to Jackson Hole is the ideal way to get there, in part because of the area’s beauty, which you see up-close from the air.
Additionally, a private jet trip is one of the only ways to get to Jackson Hole, as options are limited. In general, direct flights to Jackson Hole are only offered from U.S. 12 cities Fortunately, there is a dedicated private jet terminal at Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), the only airport serving Jackson Hole.
Flying here is especially exclusive because JAC is actually the only commercial airport in the U.S. located within a national park. Because of this, there are noise restrictions to consider; only specific jets with quiet capabilities can land at JAC. At 6,300 feet, the runway length is suitable for all types of commercial aircraft and private jets. However, only stage III jets may land at JAC due to these restrictions.
Located at an elevation of 6,451 feet, Jackson Hole also requires the expertise of an experienced private jet pilot. But, the journey is worth it: JAC’s location at the base of the Teton Range makes for spectacular take-offs and approaches, especially at sunset.
JAC is located 7 miles north of the center of town, so once your private jet lands, you don’t have far to go. Our Jackson Hole guide will show you the best spots to stay once you land.
Of course, no vacation is complete without mouthwatering eats to match. Book a table at Snake River Grill, Gather, or historic home-style eatery The Blue Lionfor a memorable meal. If you’re up for a culinary adventure, the slow cooked meats and exotic game options (think buffalo, venison and elk) at cowboy-inspired steakhouse Gun Barrel are popular for a hearty meal after a long day on the slopes. Overall, the top-rated restaurants in Jackson Hole tend toward the upscale but unfussy.
The Best things to do in Jackson Hole
Wondering what the best things to do in Jackson Hole are? The options for private jet travelers depend on the season.
Beloved for its award-winning slopes, Jackson Hole is consistently ranked as a top ski resort destination in a guide by Forbes. The tiny, scenic valley town offers impressive terrain, challenging runs and ample powder all winter long.
In winter time, skiing, snowboarding, and apres-ski activities are among the top things to do in Jackson Hole. You can also take a wildlife safari or book a day at a relaxing mountain spa, but dog sledding, ice skating, heli skiing and snowmobiling are also popular options.
In the summer, visitors enjoy extended hours of daylight and pleasant weather. It’s the perfect time to explore the wonder of the great American outdoors. Thankfully, Jackson Hole has a pair of perfect destinations with Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.
Get outside and plan biking, hiking, camping, fishing and climbing expeditions. Additionally, you can try horseback riding, white water rafting, hot air balloon rides and wagon train tours. Altogether, these adventures make for the perfect summer itinerary in Jackson Hole.
Interested in booking a private jet to Jackson Hole? Get a quote nowor call Magellan Jets today at 877-550-5387.
Absconding to Iceland or Portugal on a private jet for a European vacation is always fun, but don’t forget about the great American outdoors. Skip the crowds and find solace by flying private to where wide open spaces and fresh air come part and parcel with the experience. Skip the city and explore the beauty of America’s treasures: the expansive wilderness of U.S. National Parks.
U.S. National Parks: 3 Destinations to Explore The Great American Outdoors
Wondering which U.S. National Parks and remote destinations to visit for an upcoming private jet excursion? Here are a few ideas for your next trip with us.
1. Dry Tortugas National Park
The 100-square-mile Dry Tortugas National Park, located west of Key West, Florida, is mostly open water and 70 miles from the nearest city. Meanwhile, the actual Tortugas islands are only accessible by boat or plane (most commonly, a seaplane charter). Thankfully, Key West has a small airport of its own to fly into via private jet: Key West International Airport (EYW). From there, a seaplane or boat is necessary to access this part of the great American outdoors.
Across its 7 islands, Dry Tortugas National Park sports protected coral reefs, beaches, a lighthouse and the remains of an 1875 shipwreck. Also, visitors will find nesting sites for seabirds and even the 19th-century Fort Jefferson. Additionally Dry Tortugas National Park is popular for diving and enjoying time out on the water. It just may be the perfect place to entertain yourself on your private jet journey through the U.S. National Parks.
2. Isle Royale National Park
A remote island cluster located in Lake Superior, Michigan near the U.S.-Canada border, Isle Royale National Park is where people who fly private go when they’re seeking peace and solitude. Consequently, expect car-free, roadless backcountry with ample forests, lakes, waterways and wildlife. Generally, the only way to access this U.S. National Parks destination is via boat or seaplane.
To get as close as possible to this U.S. National Park, fly private as a Magellan Jets member or book a private jet charter into Houghton County Memorial Airport (CMX), Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT), Grand Marais/Cook County Airport (CKC, GRM) or Duluth International Airport (DLH).
3. American Samoa National Park
If you want to go really remote while perhaps helping carbon offsetting projects, then consider exploring the great American outdoors in the National Park of American Samoa. Due to it being in U.S. territory that’s many miles from almost everything, only a few thousand people visit each year. It’s comprised of 7 unspoiled islands and atolls floating in the South Pacific, teeming with reefs, rainforests, volcanos. and aquatic life. It’s a perfect getaway for private jet travelers who love visiting scenic U.S. National Parks.
Overall, American Samoa National Park is about as exotic and remote as it gets. Visitors should specifically fly private into Faleolo International Airport (APW), Fitiuta Airport (FAQ), or Ofu Airport (OFU).
EXPLORE THE OUTDOORS WITH Magellan Jets
Explore the great American outdoors and trust Magellan Jets to get you there safely and efficiently. Most important, a private jet can transport you to remote locales with ease and reliability. In fact, in many cases, the most remote destinations in the world are only reachable via private jet travel.
We may be in the waning weeks of winter, but flu season isn’t slowing down. Since flu activity remains high across the U.S., it’s important for parents to keep an eye on their children while traveling, as they’re especially vulnerable to the virus. Read on for a list of helpful tips on how to survive the flu this season.
How to Survive the Flu: HEalth Tips for flying with Children
1. VACCines work
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the best course of action for combatting the flu in kids, as well as adults, are vaccines. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older should get the flu vaccine every year, ideally before the season starts in the fall. However, since the season peaks in the winter, “getting vaccinated later can still be protective.”
For commercialand private jet passengers preparing for a trip, the CDC suggests getting vaccinated at least two weeks before traveling. This is because it takes that amount of time for the immunity to develop. Vaccinations are incredibly important for preventing the flu in kids who are traveling to contagious areas.
There are two types of vaccines. First is an injectable influenza vaccine (IIV) for ages 6 months and older that’s administered via a needle. The second type is a live inactivated influenza vaccine (LAIV), which is given as a nasal spray and is approved for ages two through 49. Always consult a medical physician on which is appropriate for your child.
2. Take precautions
In addition to vaccines, parents can take other precautions to prevent the flu in kids while flying private or commercial. As is the case with most disease prevention, avoiding contact with sick individuals and other best practices are key.
Instill healthy habits in your children, and make sure they know not to touch their eyes, faces, and noses. Washing hands with soap or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer is also vitally important.
Make sure your children also get the right amount of sleep, stay active, drink enough water, and eat a nutritious diet, as they all help in staying healthy and preventing the flu.
Since the flu is particularly lethal for young children, it’s important to know the symptoms. Identifying the warning signs early means you can get your kid treatment before things get worse.
The CDC advises to immediately seek medical care if your child has the following symptoms or any others that are causing concern:
-Fast breathing or trouble breathing
-Bluish lips or face
-Ribs pulling in with each breath
-Chest pain
-Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
-Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
-Not alert or interacting when awake
-Seizures
-Fever above 104°F
-In children less than 12 weeks, any fever Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
-Worsening of chronic medical conditions
Take the stress out of flying with your family and get a quote from Magellan Jets, or call 877-550-5387 to inquire today.
‘Tis the season when winter travel commences for businesses, and so do ski vacations! And unfortunately, for some of us, ’tis also the season for icy airplanes and air traffic delays!
Winter weather brings special challenges for the aviation industry and its travelers. In addition to the hazards of snow-covered runways and in freezing temperatures, our pilots and operations staff work to manage air traffic control delays and de-icing procedures. It can be frustrating for business travelers to experience delays associated with winter operations, so we want to give you the inside scoop on why those delays occur.
Winter Travel Challenges: Snow and Ice
One might think flying through the snow seems daunting, but it’s really the snow-covered runways and taxiways that are more challenging for flight operations. Landing on a runway that’s snow- or ice-covered is a hazard pilots take seriously during the winter months. And at small airports with limited snow-removal equipment and personnel, it can take time to plow runways and taxiways, resulting in delays for aircraft in the air and on the ground.
Winter Travel Challenges: Freezing Temperatures and De-Icing Procedures
Freezing temperatures can mean an iced-up airplane, and the FAA has very strict rules about not taking off with visible frost or ice on an airplane. Taking off with even a small amount of frost on an airplane can reduce lift as much as 40 percent – so deicing is not only mandatory, but it’s always the right thing to do. De-icing can cause delays, as it does take time to de-ice before a flight.
Magellan wants to help reduce any additional costs and improve your comfort by putting aircraft in a hangar whenever possible. There are also rules about taking off into icing conditions. Since most business aircraft have anti-ice and de-ice systems onboard, light icing in flight is not usually a problem. But if the forecast calls for moderate or severe icing, or the pilot of another aircraft reports severe icing, delays or reroutes may occur in order to keep the airplane safely in the air.
Winter Travel Challenges: Low Visibility
Winter also means reduced visibility, especially in early morning when fog can be prevalent. Also, snowstorms can reduce visibility greatly for aircraft taking off or landing.
But why can some airplanes land in bad weather while others can’t? As a passenger, it can be frustrating to see a private jet fly into an FBO while your pilot reports you’ll have to divert to an alternate airport for weather. The FAA publishes minimums for each approach into an airport. Those minimums include visibility requirements and cloud height requirements, along with other limitations like airspeeds to follow and aircraft equipment requirements. In addition, each aircraft operator publishes their own, often more stringent requirements, for completing approaches at airports, especially if the airport is known to be a difficult one.
This explains why some aircraft are able to land at a particular airport while others can’t. Aircraft with specific equipment on board may have different visibility requirements for an approach. No pilot wants to hold in the air for weather to get better, or to divert. But, the minimums are there for a reason. That’s so that the pilots will be assured that they will see the runway in time to land safely.
Winter Travel Challenges: Air Traffic Control Delays
Air traffic control delays happen for a variety of reasons. For instance, airports have “rush hours” just like you see on the highways. These are particular times that require ATC to give airplanes a “flow time” or a scheduled arrival time. Poor weather slows this down even more, of course.
In the winter, the FAA may implement flow times and other delay programs. This is because of reduced visibility, hazardous weather conditions, de-icing procedures, or snow removal operations, to name a few. In addition, local airport procedures often dictate delays. For example, some airports are particularly challenging during the hight of the winter. An airport might have three runways, but only one runway that is designated for low-visibility operations. Low-visibility operations require certain lighting systems and weather reporting systems to be operational. Delays can occur is a piece of runway or taxiway equipment is inoperative, as well.
Winter Travel Challenges: Ramp and Vehicle Safety
Finally, it is just as important to us that we keep our airport staff and operations employees safe as it is that we keep our clients safe. Therefore, closed roads or winter weather may prevent an airport or operator from having a full staff during winter storms. Airport personnel work hard to ensure the airplanes are de-iced and the ramp areas are safe for everyone. Sometimes the weather just prevents operations from happening at full speed.
Winter Travel Challenges: Planning Ahead
At Magellan Jets, we work hard all year to ensure your safety. We know that winter travel months can be especially challenging with weather and ATC delays. We continuously work to mitigate delays by putting aircraft in hangars whenever possible and pre-positioning aircraft outside of snow events – so your aircraft arrives to pick you up warm and on-time.
Contact Magellan Jets today to find out how our 24/7 Flight Support team can assist you with your winter travel plans at 877-550-5387 or click here to get a quote for your upcoming trip.
Between its centuries of history and the financial and business headquarters peppering the city today, Boston is one of the most popular destinations in the world for business travel. Many of Boston’s business travelers arrive with a goal of bleisure: enjoying a mix of business and leisure activities during their trip. If you travel to Boston for business often but also want to enjoy your time personally, we can help. Below, we’ve put together the ultimate business travel guide to Boston.
More travelers than ever are turning to private travel to advance their business. On top of being convenient and flexible, “Business aircraft have a safety record that is comparable to that of the major airlines,” according to the NBAA Business Aviation Fact Book. And yet, “Business aviation reaches 10 times the number of U.S. airports than the airlines do.” In other words, private business travel is both productive and safe.
On your next business trip, amplify the experience with personalized city recommendations courtesy of Magellan Jets.
Boston skyline
Business travel guide to Boston: where to eat
Wondering where to eat in Boston? Whether you want traditional New England fare or just need to grab a quick coffee, we’ve got you covered.
where to go for oysters in Boston
You can’t travel to Boston without dining on good New England seafood, especially raw oysters. Union Oyster House is a popular spot among visitors. It’s one of the longest-standing restaurants in the world: they’ve been shucking and serving patrons since 1826. However, many prefer the more upscale experience of Island Creek Oyster Bar, a sleek restaurant serving farm-fresh raw items plus an extensive selection of wine, beer, and cocktails.
Another upscale option isMooo…., one of the hottest and most high-end restaurants in Boston. This modern steakhouse serves sophisticated cuts and a wide selection of wine and cocktails. Located on Boston’s Beacon Hill in the XV Beacon Hotel, Mooo…. is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, dinner and also serves Sunday brunch.
Those who want to infuse their business travels with a bit of playfulness will get a kick out of the let-loose vibe of Moxy Boston Downtown. The hotel recently debuted in the heart of Boston’s Theater District. Upon entering, you’ll spot an unusual front desk. The check-in area features a food truck-inspired photo booth and a bar. Business travelers love the hotel’s high-tech touches. These include mobile check-in and checkout, keyless entry, plenty of power and USB outlets, and lightning-fast Wi-Fi. As one of the hottest new hotels in Boston, the lobby is youthful and hip. Also, don’t forget to head up to the hotel’s 24th-floor rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the Boston skyline.
Marriott’s Autograph Collection properties are a favorite among business travelers, and Boston’s new The Row Hotel at Assembly Row is no exception. Located in what was originally a Ford Motor Assembly Plant, the hotel has a vintage pink Edsel Ranger out front to pay homage. During its first year in business, The Row Hotel at Assembly Row was recognized as one of the World’s Best Hotels in 2019 by Travel + Leisure.
The Row Hotel at Assembly Square Boston
If you have free time in boston…
The city is chock full of museums, attractions, and other things to do. If you have some spare time, check out the Freedom Trail. Follow a self-guided brick pathway which gives visitors an in-depth overview of the significant history of Boston, providing informative insight into the city it has grown into today.
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT Boston
Boston is a year-round city, even if winters can be snowy and cold. However, all four seasons of Boston offer a desirable experience. So, no matter what time of year you’re visiting, there’s something fun you can add to your itinerary.
In the spring, enjoy the flowers blooming into color around the city. Of course, nothing beats a New England summer. The fall leaves erupt in glorious color, blanketing the city in reds and oranges. Boston also emerges as a winter wonderland once the holidays roll around. At any time of year, Boston offers the best of a true seasonal experience.
Magellan Jets is poised to be headquartered in this vibrant city. Next time you are looking to travel to or from Boston for business, please call a private aviation consultant at Magellan Jets at 877-550-5387 for a private jet charter quote, or get an instant quote now.
Boston skyline
Dish served at Mooo
The Row Hotel at Assembly Square Boston