Sometimes you’ve just got to take the good things in life…

There’s no doubt that as you grow older, you value the finer things in life much more than you might previously have done. Peace and quiet, detailed efficiency, and luxurious added touches become must-haves, such as long-haul private travel. After all, you’ve earned it, right?

Private jet travel is a transformative way to explore the world. Dreaded long-haul journeys become something to look forward to, with their supreme comfort and endless array of features and perks. Bypass the crowds and enjoy your own private space with a private jet. If you can’t afford your own, don’t worry. With charter services and shared ownership more popular than ever, you’re just a phone call away from taking off. Learn how private jet travel enhances long-haul adventures, offering a truly stress-free flying experience for older travellers.

A stress-free start

You’ve all spent enough time in commercial airports to know that they’re tolerable at best and a living nightmare at worst. From the interminable queues at the check-in desk to inevitable delays in the departure lounge, there’s really nothing fun about airports. With private travel, though, you only need to arrive around fifteen minutes before your scheduled departure.

Once you arrive, you’ll have a private check-in and an expedited bag check at your very own fixed-base operator (FBO). FBOs are usually found either at private airports or far from the commercial terminals at public airports, giving you space and privacy to unwind before your flight.

Once inside your FBO, enjoy personalised check-in services, comfortable lounges, and minimal wait times. This streamlined process not only reduces physical strain but also allows you to focus on the excitement of the journey. For example, a couple flying from London to Tuscany can skip the chaos of Heathrow and enjoy a relaxed start to their Italian getaway.

Unmatched comfort

Long-haul flights on commercial airlines often involve cramped seating and limited legroom, which can be particularly uncomfortable. In contrast, private jets have spacious, fully reclining seats and ample room to move around. Many aircraft, such as the Gulfstream G650 or Bombardier Global 6000, feature ergonomic seating designed to reduce discomfort and stiffness during extended flights.

Beyond physical comfort, private jet travel provides personalised services tailored to individual needs. Whether it’s dietary preferences, medical requirements, or specific in-flight entertainment, every detail is customised to ensure a pleasant journey. Flight attendants on private jets focus exclusively on their passengers, delivering attentive and discreet service.

While your private jet crew will do everything they can to ensure your comfort, there are a few things you can do to help yourself. Wearing loose, light clothing will keep you cool and comfortable, and compression socks will aid with circulation on long-haul flights.

Read more: Why it’s never too late to learn how to ski

Better for you

One thing you might not have considered when flying commercially is the impact on your health. Long-haul flights take a particular toll on your body. The restricted movement, irregular sleeping patterns, and subsequent jet lag all have an impact.

Flying privately helps reduce these concerns by giving you a cabin to yourself, allowing you to move around as often as you like. Also, some private jets come with their own bedrooms and shower cabins, so you can get a restful night’s sleep and feel refreshed before you land. The latest private jets even feature lighting that mimics the time of day wherever you land to help combat jet lag.

Transform your travel

There is no need for a heavy conscience when it comes to long-haul flights. Most of these private jet companies, like Air Charter, are integrating offsets for their service that might offset carbon emissions, as they pave ways through reforestation projects or renewable energy. A quiet shift to help you get the luxury and freedom of private travel while knowing that the environmental impact is softened, adds one more layer of ease to an already easy journey.

Saving time

There’s no doubt that one of the most frustrating aspects of long-haul travel is the time spent on layovers and indirect routes. Due to packed and inflexible flight schedules, you can find your journey taking several more hours than it needs to because of multiple connections and lengthy layovers. Private jets, on the other hand, offer direct flights to a vast number of destinations, cutting down overall travel time significantly. If your jet has a long enough range, you can almost travel from one side of the planet to the other in a single flight.

Additionally, private aviation allows for flexible scheduling. Instead of being restricted to airline timetables, you can choose to depart whenever you please. This flexibility is especially beneficial for travellers who may prefer to fly at times that minimise jet lag or align with personal schedules.

Popular long-haul destinations for private jet travellers

Private jet travel opens up a world of possibilities, allowing travellers to reach both iconic destinations and remote gems with ease. Here are some of the most sought-after long-haul destinations for mature travellers and adventurers:

South Africa

From scenic wine tasting to coming face to face with lions and rhinos, South Africa is crammed with bucket-list adventures. Private aviation makes reaching remote game reserves like Kruger National Park or Sabi Sands effortless.

Japan

With its combination of ancient traditions with modern luxury, Japan appeals to travellers for its truly idiosyncratic culture. Private jets allow for flexible itineraries, including stops in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hokkaido.

New Zealand

Known for its breathtaking scenery and opportunities for adventure, New Zealand is best explored via private charter. Fly directly to Queenstown for skiing or Auckland for a coastal retreat.

The Caribbean

For an unforgettably laid-back long-haul experience, islands like St. Barts, the Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos offer exclusive private jet access to secluded beaches and five-star resorts.

Transform Your Travel

The fact that you can fly from continent to continent in a matter of hours should be a cause for celebration, not dread. By travelling privately, you’re able to appreciate the beauty of long-haul travel at any age without fearing the drawbacks of commercial flight.

The ability to avoid crowded terminals, enjoy flexible scheduling, and relax in a luxurious cabin provides all the advantages you need to make the switch from commercial flight to private aviation.