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Ask your Pilot - Merkur Air

Ask your Pilot

CORONAVIRUS AND PRIVATE AVIATION – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A global pandemic over the COVID-19 was declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). And for sure there are a lot of questions about coronavirus coming from clients and private jet members. So, here is a list of FAQ and answers around coronavirus situation, information about steps that are taken to ensure the safety and health of the passenger that is flying with private aviation.

1. IS IT SAFER TO FLY WITH PRIVATE JETS THAN WITH COMMERCIAL AIRPLANES?

To fly with commercial aircraft, have a few risks. Such as, you are contacting more people in the aircraft and in the airport. You have less control of hygiene and cleanliness of the aeroplane. Use of private aviation strongly decreases the chances to catch a virus, because of usage FBO (fixed based operators) and private terminals, so the number of people you are contacting is very low. Also, the private jets are used by not more than 14 passengers on a flight and usually, these are the people you know. Chartering a private jet gives the client more control about their surrounding environments, such as in-cabin humidity and some more factors can be set for preventing illness.

2. WHAT ABOUT THE PASSENGERS THAT BELONG TO THE GROUP OF RISK? SHOULD THEY USE PRIVATE AVIATION?

The passengers with serious health conditions and the older adults that belong to the risk group of complications from Covid-19 definitely should consider using private charter flights for travelling. Flying on a commercial aircraft increases the possibility of exposure because of the number of passengers in the aircraft and public terminals in the airport. Instead, flying by the private jet decrease significantly the number of people you interact and gives you an opportunity to control onboard conditions. The individuals that belong to the at-risk group should consider as alternative private aviation services.

3. WHAT COUNTRIES I AM NOT ALLOWED TO FLY TO?

As known for the moment the travel restrictions are already taking place in Iran and China, in U.S. (all flights from Europe to the U.S. are suspended, except flights from the U.K.) for the period of 30 days from the March 13. In case your destination is in the suspending list, consider our Private Aviation Experts, who can provide other travel solutions and alternative routes to meet your needs.

4. IS THIS SITUATION GOING TO AFFECT THE CHARTER FLIGHTS DEMAND?

Lately, we have noticed a significant raise on a private jet demand. Following the COVID -19 situation all over the world, the requests for private travelling will be rising continuously. Our Private Aviation Experts are recommending to take care of your next trip as soon as possible in order to secure preferred aircraft and all the preparing to meet your needs.

5. WHAT IS GATN DOING FOR THE PRIVATE FLIGHTS TO BECOME SAFER AND HEALTHIER?

To ensure health and safety in a private aviation area at these times our experts doing the best to provide our customers with additional protection during their trip. We actively communicating with all our operators to ensure the highest standards of safety is followed. All the operators we work with are expected to follow enhanced protocols as issued by the safety task force.

FAQ ABOUT BUSINESS AVIATION

1. ANY ADVISES FOR THE BUSINESSES DURING THE COVID – 19 CRISES?

Businesses and business individuals who need to travel during this period are advised to consider private flying options. As was told, the FBOs, private terminals and private aircrafts minimizing the risks of infection instead of flying commercial. At times like this, private aviation is a helpful tool for businesses and business individuals providing comfortable, private and safe travel to the customers.

2. SHOULD WE CONSIDER TO CANCEL SCHEDULED MEETINGS?

As outlined by the safety task force, there are should be precautions for in-person meetings. Our Private Aviation experts are available 24/7 to discuss and to help meet all the needs of your company.

COVID – 19

Due to the world emergency situation, restrictions on flights can be experienced.
The situation is changing quickly and we are unable to update the flights’ availability in real-time.
Delay in answering to inquires may be experienced, we are sorry for the inconvenience.

GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT CORONAVIRUS

1. WHAT IS COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS)?

The coronavirus belongs to the virus family that range from the common cold symptoms to more heavy illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the virus officially named COVID-19 that’s been spreading in the world since December 2019 is a new strain that previously hasn’t been identified in humans. It was first discovered in the city of Wuhan in China. By now over 100 countries have the victims of coronavirus. The CDS states that the virus spreads from person-to-person contact in a radius of about 2 meters. COVID-19 is spreading by respiratory droplets (sneezes and cough) of the infected individual.

2. WHAT ARE THE MAIN SYMPTOMS?

According to the CDC, coronavirus symptoms emerge in 2-14 days after the contact with the infected person. Mainly is cough, high fever and breath shortness. In any case, not all affected individuals are showing the symptoms. The course of the disease range from mild to heavy illnesses and can be even fatal for the human.

3. HOW MANY DAYS MUST PASS TO SEE THE SYMPTOMS?

The researchers from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health have found that the incubation period of coronavirus takes on average 5.1 days. This research guided to the recommended 14 days of the quarantine period for individuals.

4. WHAT PEOPLE ARE IN AT-RISK GROUP FROM COVID-19 VIRUS?

The individuals with a serious chronic medical condition as diabetes, lung and heart diseases and older adults belong to the at-risk group. The studies of the Journal of the American Medical Assn. tells that people ages 60 and older were more than 80% of the deaths in China. The individuals that belong to the at-risk group should take extra precautions to avoid the affection of coronavirus.

5. CAN OUR PETS GET COVID-19? CAN THEY SPREAD IT OVER PEOPLE?

The CDC organization says that there is “any received reports about pets or any other animals got infected by the new COVID-19”. Also, there is any evidence that animals can carry or spread coronavirus. In any case, it is still recommended to wash your hands after contact your pets, because they can spread other types of diseases.

6. WHAT SHOULD I DO TO PROTECT MYSELF?

There are several recommendations from the Disease Control and Prevention Center (CDC):

  • Avoid touching your face (mouth, nose and eyes) especially with unwashed hands.
  • Often wash your hands with water and soap for at least 20 seconds or use sanitizer gel with at least 60% of alcohol
  • Avoid close contact with affected individuals.
  • Try to keep distance with the other people in a 2-meter radius if there are infected people in the community.

7. WHAT ABOUT THE FACE MASKS?

There is no need to wear the face mask if you are not sick. But in case you have any of the symptoms of the disease, you should wear a mask to avoid spreading the virus. If you think that you are affected and you do not have a mask, cover your face when you cough and sneeze.

Merkur Air

WHAT HAPPENS AT A PRIVATE JET AIRPORT?

Flying on a private jet is well known for its speed, time saving and luxury. But we are most often asked about the details of the ground part of the experience. It’s lesser known exactly how it works at the private jet airport, especially for those travelling by private jet for the first time.

Saving time and hassle is a big part of the experience on the ground, before you even step on board your private jet. Watch this video for your own personal tour of exactly what happens when you get to the private jet terminal (also known as the FBO) at your chosen airport.

WHAT DOES MY CATERING ON BOARD OF MY PRIVATE JET INCLUDES?

At short flights, the catering usually includes cold food and beverages. While on longer flights, hot food can be arranged to be served according to your preferences. Just inform us about your dislikes and likes in order to serve you better.

CAN I TAKE MY PET ON A PRIVATE JET?

Provided all the pet documentation is correct and up-to-date, we are able to make all the arrangements for clients who wish to travel with their domestic pets, ensuring the animal’s welfare and comfort at all times.

WHERE DO I MEET MY PILOT AND CREW ?

When you arrive at the airports private jet terminal (FBO), at the lounge area the crew will be waiting for you to escort you at your private jet. However, there’s nothing to worry about as one day prior your flight a pre-flight notice will be sent to your email informing you about everything you need to know, from your pilots phone number to handling agent details to the the exact meeting point, will all be provided within the email.

WHAT’S THE BEST AIRPORT TO USE IN LONDON?

One of the main questions our clients come to ask – Is which airport is better to use at London. At Jets4you, for our costumers we came up with a list of airports that are near to London which include the advantages and disadvantages. There’s a variety of 10 private jets airports to choose from. In order to choose an airport according to your needs, you can click here to read the full article.

CAN MY PRIVATE JET TAKE A WHEELCHAIR ON BOARD?

It depends on the size of the aircraft you charter. For example, at Citation Mustang a wheelchair can fit but at a Diamond Twin Star it can’t fit.

DO I HAVE TO SWITCH OFF MY MOBILE PHONE DURING THE FLIGHT?

The pilot’s radios can be affected by a mobile if the distance is less than a meter. So, if it’s more than a meter than that the impact of a passenger’s mobile phone on the aircraft systems is negligible.The use of mobiles is allowed as soon as the aircraft lands by the American regulations. Jets4you, has always safety as the number one priority for our customers but also having VIP costumer service is on the top of the list too. So there’s no need to worry about being asked to switch off your phone, but let’s keep that a secret between us.

HOW DOES FOG AFFECT MT FLIGHT?

Flights delays can be caused by fog and poor visibility that affect all aircrafts, including private jets. With auto-land autopilots are a lot off commercial flights equipped , the most of air traffic delays occur on the ground and during the take off phase.

DO CUSTOMS APPLY AT PRIVATE JET USERS?

That is a question that is frequently asked by our clients. The answer is yes. The same thing as commercial airlines applies to private jet users. Therefore, you go through customs and immigration. However when flying at a small private jet airport, the staff at customs and immigration may not choose to meet your flight.

WHY DOES A PRIVATE JET MAKES ME FEEL LESS TIRED?

When travelling with a commercial airplane you can feel tired this is caused due to noise, vibration and pressurization of the air. However, when flying with a private jet these side effects are minimized due to a more effectively controlled and, with a lower cabin altitude. This results to a more comfortable environment with better oxygen levels.

WHAT HEIGHT (ALTITUDE) DO PRIVATE JETS FLY AT?

At a stature of up to 45 000 ft, however most cruise at 41 000 ft a private jetcan fly.This is for the most part higher than an commercial flight and takes into consideration a more straightforward course – out of the most congested territory of the sky. A private jet pilot will pick the ideal cruising elevation relying upon the distance of the trip. As a dependable guideline you cross a zero off the distance in miles to ascertain the ideal elevation in feet.

CAN A PRIVATE JET FLY IN SNOW?

Yes, although private planes are liable to a similar flight confinements as booked carriers, private planes can utilize a greater number of air terminals than commercial aircrafts. This implies when snow is gauge or an airplane terminal is confined because of snow or ice a private stream pilot can redirect (once in a while even in transit) to an air terminal which is less influenced by unfriendly climate. Private flight adaptability additionally permits course and time changes to keep away from climate issues.

CAN I FIT 4 SETS OF GOLF CLUBS IN A CITATION MUSTANG?

No. We would suggest utilizing a bigger aircraft , for example, the Citation XL (fly) or KingAir 350 (turboprop) aircraft both of which have a significantly more noteworthy baggage limit than the Citation Mustang. As the Citation Mustang has just 4 seats and a little baggage compartment it’s optimal for quite a long time outings, or short flights with little measures of gear. Think about the Mustang as a “Porsche in the sky”, extraordinary execution, financially savvy extravagance, yet not perfect for conveying children or golf clubs! The KingAir 350 aircraft is a significantly more extensive aircraft – with up to 8 seats and a bigger gear hold. For flights up to 1 hour 30 minutes it will be less expensive than a Mustang, however the give up is speed. The Citation XL is the ideal answer for extensive gear prerequisites. Significantly speedier than a Mustang, biggest gear compartment of every single comparative fly and up to 8 seats, with a different latrine compartment. The Citation XL has enough gear space to fit 8 sets of golf clubs. No big surprise it’s the most prevalent offering private fly in Europe! We’ve been flying the Citation XL for a long time, so would be cheerful to examine it in more detail.

CAN I TAKE MY DOG IN THE CABIN WITH ME ON A PRIVATE JET?

Yes, in a private fly your pet can go with you in the cabin, instead of independently in the hold. There are particular prerequisites and documentation required for flying with pets which we can advice you on. Not like commercial flights where there be hold at the cargo area, in a private fly they can be in the cabin next to you. Giving their documents are up to date, your pets can depart from the many pet friendly airplane terminals and appreciate being part of the private pet set.

WHAT’S THE FASTEST PRIVATE JET TO CHARTER?

Here are Jets4you’ Top 10 Fastest Jets:

  • Citation X (ten) – Mach 0.9
  • G650
  • G550
  • Falcon 7X
  • Gulfstream G4
  • Falcon 900
  • Challenger 605
  • Citation Soverign
  • Hawker 900

HOW MUCH IS A PRIVATE JET FLIGHT?

Charter is generally the most savvy choice for most private fly trips. Chartering a private fly can cost as meager 1700 euro’s for a little prop flying machine. At the other extraordinary, a round-the-world visit on a Gulfstream GV could cost 650.000 euro’s Most private charter flights fall some place in the middle. The normal private flight is an arrival of 1 hour 30 minutes for each leg and expenses 13.000 euro’s.

WHAT’S AN FBO?

The name is a legacy term and stands for Fixed Base Operator. It is the name given for handling facilities at the airport and the private jet terminal.

WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR PRIVATE JET?

There is a wide variety of private jets. From propeller aircrafts, small and large executive jets to VIP airliners. Jets4you offers over 7,000+ aircraft internationally .The world’s best-selling jet is the 8 seater Cessna Citation XLS. Then we have the Citation Mustang, the most popular very light jet or ‘air taxi’. For the supersize jets, the Boeing Business Jet, which is a converted 737 has only 20 seats, bathrooms and sometimes even a fish tank! The fastest is the Citation X+, closely followed by the Gulfstream G650, and Bombardier’s Global family.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO FLY BY PRIVATE JET?

An important note would be thatJets4you prices are all-inclusive: airport fees, tax, catering – all there, with no extra cost. Price is based on the size of the aircraft and the flight time. It can cost as little 5000 euro per hour in a small jet.

“I LOVE TO RENT A LEARJET AND GO TO MILAN FOR SHOPPING, OR VISIT A CAPITAL LIKE PARIS THAT I LOVE VERY MUCH BUT I HAVE PROBLEM, I’M AFRAID OF AIRPLANES . ANY THOUGHTS ON WHAT PEOPLE LIKE ME CAN DO?”

If you’re afraid or anxious about flights then there is one among others ideas that you may want to try. Virtual Reality Therapy. Book a virtual flight and learn how to “fly” without stress and fear. Exposure techniques combined with techniques such as relaxation or cognitive restructuring are the ones which have shown a higher rate of success in the treatment of flying phobia. Virtual Reality is the easiest and simplest way to offer best practices to anxiety patients.

VR allows you to interact with environments in between in vivo and imaginal exposure, improving the flow and outcomes of exposure therapy, through a smartphone and VR glasses designed, supervised, and tested by psychologists.

HOW DO ICE & SNOW AFFECT PRIVATE JET FLIGHTS?

The main challenges for a private jet flight in very cold weather on the ground. Aircraft are exceptionally well-designed to cope with freezing temperatures and snowfall once in the air. At 30,000 feet temperatures regularly reach as low as -80C without any problems.

So when it comes to factoring in ice or snow, the major focus is the condition of the runway and taxiway at the airport.

De-icing is a legal and safety requirement, for all private jet flights. And de-icing costs can add to the cost of a charter flight – so this is something we always inform our clients before a flight during cold weather.

Private jets are less impacted than airline flights by heavy snowfall as they can use smaller airports, where snow clearing and de-icing can often take place quicker that at major hubs. And if all flights are grounded due to extreme snow, the agility of private charter means flights can return to normal immediately after restrictions are lifted.