Flying

Gulfstream's GIV
August 1, 2010
A fully loaded GIV weighs 73,000 pounds, and 29,000 of that is fuel.
Applying the language of golf, the Gulfstream IV is a solid par performer. It's a no-drama player that hits straight down the middle, avoids the hazards and posts consistent scores.  
Buy, borrow or lease
August 1, 2010
Leasing might make sense if you can't take advantage of the tax-depreciation
You've analyzed numerous variables, including where, when and how often you fly. You've determined that a fractional share makes sense for you and figured out which aircraft model best suits your needs. You've even picked a fractional provider. Time to call the company, sign the paperwork and break out the margaritas?
Why charter rates won't drop
August 1, 2010
A handful of operators own their fleets and can set whatever prices they want
Say for a moment that you own an aircraft rather than simply fly on those you charter. Given the direct operating costs and all the other expenses of ownership, how much would you charge a stranger to use your airplane?
Why good flight attendants matter
August 1, 2010
If you’re unsure, ask flight attendants about the safety training they’ve rec
How would you respond to an in-flight emergency? If your answer involves seeking help from flight attendants, that's not surprising. Passengers typically consider them to be the cabin safety go-to people.
The High Road
August 1, 2010
First-time charter customers often come back for more, as they find that the
Even though I'm a pilot, I still love loading up the car and hitting the highway for a far-off vacation destination. Some of my most relaxing moments have been behind the wheel, with Woody Guthrie's "ribbon of highway" stretched out ahead of the hood ornament.
What jet makers have in store
July 1, 2010
The $7.065 million Premier II is Hawker Beechcraft's follow-on to the Premier
The people who build airplanes believe better times are coming. So do many analysts, who predict that aircraft sales will gain momentum by the middle of next year. When that happens, manufacturers will be ready because they have continued to fund research and development of new airplanes.
Upgrade or start fresh?
July 1, 2010
You end up with nearly the equivalent of a new $53.25 million Global Express
At a time when the business aviation industry is showing signs of recovery, you may be wondering whether it makes more sense to update a used airplane or buy a brand new one from a manufacturer. Some brokers, analysts and consultants say you're now often better off putting money into a good used aircraft-one you buy or one you already own-than opting for a factory-fresh model.
Making the most of online resources
June 1, 2010
One site sends out e-mails twice weekly to registrants who want to stay abrea
It's one of the most visited destinations in the air charter world: the Web. But finding the best ways to take advantage of it has challenged charter providers and customers since the start of the dot-com revolution. Virgin Charter's idea for a one-stop online booking portal closed down almost as quickly as it popped up.
What's Going On at Flight Options?
June 1, 2010
Kenn Ricci, who founded Flight Options and left the company in 2003, returned
When industry observers speculate about the future of the four biggest fractional-jet-share providers, the company that often prompts the most discussion is Flight Options. That's because it has arguably undergone more change than its competitors while also lacking the protection afforded by being under a large corporate umbrella.
Strapping in your small fry
June 1, 2010
The FAA doesn't require child-restraint systems, but it recommends them. So d
So you're taking the family on vacation in your jet. You'll belt the two-year-old into his own seat and Mom will hold the newborn in her lap. They'll be as safe as can be, right? Maybe not.

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Fractional Jet Ownership
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Inside the Cabin
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Quote/Unquote

“You want to make sure with a race in which you'll be flying home with other drivers that you don't crash into them. It's happened before, and it can make for a little bit of a tense situation.”

-Racecar driver Helio Castroneves