✈️ What Really Happens Before Your Private Jet Takes Off

A behind-the-scenes look at the luxury, precision, and teamwork that make your flight possible.

When you book a private jet, it may seem like your aircraft is magically waiting for you — perfectly clean, fully stocked, and ready to soar. But behind the seamless experience is a world of preparation that begins hours (and sometimes days) before departure. From flight planning and permissions to catering and crew readiness, here’s everything that goes on before you step on board.

🕓 Timeline: Behind the Scenes of a Private Flight

Time Before Departure	What Happens
48–24 hours	Flight plan confirmed, route optimized, and permits requested
24 hours	Catering order finalized and scheduled for delivery
12 hours	Aircraft positioning (if needed) and fueling scheduled
6 hours	Weather checks and FBO coordination
4 hours	Aircraft detailed and sanitized
2 hours	Catering delivered, cabin stocked (drinks, snacks, amenities)
1 hour	Final crew briefing and systems check
30 minutes	Crew arrives, preps cabin and welcomes client

🧭 1. Flight Planning & Route Optimization

Once your flight is confirmed, operations teams begin working with dispatchers to file a flight plan. This includes choosing the most efficient route based on air traffic, fuel consumption, and weather. For international trips, permits and slots are also requested from local aviation authorities — something that can vary greatly between countries.

🍽️ 2. Catering Customization

Your onboard meal isn’t just thrown together. It’s coordinated with premium catering partners (like Air Dining Cabo), and may include dietary requirements, personal preferences, pet-friendly options, or even branded details. Orders are confirmed in advance, delivered fresh, and arranged beautifully in the galley.

🧼 3. Cabin Cleaning & Detailing

Private jets are cleaned meticulously before each flight. This includes disinfecting surfaces, polishing interiors, vacuuming carpets, and refreshing lavatories. Every seat, window, and table is double-checked for presentation. Amenities like blankets, slippers, magazines, or skincare kits are also restocked.

👨‍✈️ 4. Crew Briefing & Safety Checks

Before departure, the crew (pilot, co-pilot, and flight attendant if applicable) conducts a full safety briefing. They review the weather, passenger manifest, aircraft systems, and any client-specific instructions — from pet handling to champagne preferences.

⛽ 5. Fueling & Positioning

If your aircraft is not already based at your departure airport, it may need to be repositioned. This includes coordinating hangar access, refueling, and sometimes even crew rest requirements if the crew flew in from another base.

🛬 6. FBO Coordination

The Fixed Base Operator (FBO) acts like a private terminal. Your operator confirms arrival times, security arrangements, baggage handling, and VIP treatment — ensuring your experience is smooth and discreet from curb to cabin.

✨ The Final Touch

As you arrive at the FBO, everything is already in place. Your crew welcomes you with a smile, the jet is spotless, your drink is ready, and your journey begins — all thanks to the seamless effort happening behind the scenes.