Every question you're afraid to ask — answered. From FBOs and catering to what to wear and how to tip, this is the guide VIPMAKKI wishes every first-time private flyer had before they stepped onto the tarmac.
From the moment you arrive to the moment you land — here's exactly what to expect.
You don't go to the main terminal. You drive directly to a Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) — essentially a private terminal for private aviation. Your driver will know the address; VIPMAKKI provides it 24 hours before departure. There's no security line, no TSA, no taking off your shoes.
Park directly at the FBO entrance. Staff will greet your car, handle your luggage, and escort you inside. The entire process from car door to aircraft door typically takes under 5 minutes.
After a brief wait in the FBO lounge (stocked with coffee, drinks, and WiFi — no sad airport chairs here), your pilot or a representative will greet you. They'll confirm your destination, flight time, and any special requests. Then you walk directly onto the tarmac.
Unlike commercial aviation, the pilot waits for you. Once everyone is seated and baggage is stowed, the aircraft pushes back and you're airborne — usually within 10–15 minutes of arriving at the FBO.
The cabin is yours. Move freely between seats. Use your phone (many jets have WiFi). Eat, drink, work, sleep — there's no "fasten seatbelt" sign after takeoff unless there's turbulence. The crew is there for you alone.
Catering is ordered in advance. You can pre-order anything from sushi platters to a specific vintage of champagne. VIPMAKKI handles all catering requests — just tell us what you want. The galley is fully stocked before you board.
You land at a private FBO at your destination — not the main terminal. Your ground transportation meets you directly on the tarmac or at the FBO door. Your luggage is handled by FBO staff and loaded directly into your waiting car.
Total time from touchdown to driving away: typically 5–10 minutes. No baggage carousel. No customs line (customs is often cleared inside the FBO for international arrivals). Just your car, your bags, and the road ahead.
There is no dress code. Wear what's comfortable. Many first-time flyers overdress — business suits are unnecessary unless you're heading to a meeting. Jeans and a sweater are perfectly fine. That said, if you want to dress up for the experience, no one will stop you.
Tipping is not expected but is appreciated. If FBO staff handle your luggage, $5–$10 per bag is customary. Pilots: tipping cash ($50–$200 depending on flight length and service) is a kind gesture but never required. Flight attendants (on larger jets): $50–$100 per crew member. VIPMAKKI can advise on what's appropriate for your specific flight.
You order catering in advance. Most FBOs work with premium local caterers — not airport food. You can request anything from fresh fruit and pastries to a multi-course meal with wine pairings. VIPMAKKI handles all catering coordination. Dietary restrictions, preferences, champagne brands — just tell us.
Most private jets allow pets in the cabin — no carrier required, no cargo hold, no stress. Just confirm when booking. International pet travel requires additional documentation (health certificates, import permits) which VIPMAKKI can coordinate.
Light jets hold 4–6 bags. Midsize jets hold 8–12. Heavy jets hold virtually unlimited luggage — including golf clubs, ski equipment, and oversized items. Tell VIPMAKKI about your luggage during booking so we match you to the right aircraft.
From the world's finest hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants to superyacht charters and private aviation — every luxury experience, curated by VIPMAKKI.
No question is too basic. VIPMAKKI guides first-time private flyers through every detail — from choosing the right aircraft to ordering the right champagne. Tell us where you're going and we'll handle the rest.
FBO stands for Fixed-Base Operator. It's a private terminal for private aviation — completely separate from the main commercial airport terminal. FBOs have lounges, conference rooms, flight planning facilities, and staff to handle your luggage, refuel the aircraft, and coordinate your arrival and departure. Think of it as a VIP lounge with a runway attached. You drive directly to the FBO entrance, park steps from the door, and walk onto the tarmac within minutes.
No. Private aviation operates outside of the TSA security screening process. There are no metal detectors, no removing your shoes, no liquid restrictions, and no pat-downs. For international flights, customs and immigration are typically handled inside the FBO or at a dedicated private aviation processing area — often while you sit in the lounge. That said, FBOs do follow security protocols including verifying passenger identities against the manifest.
15–30 minutes before departure is standard. Unlike commercial aviation, there are no check-in counters, security lines, or boarding groups. You arrive, your luggage is loaded, and you board. You can even arrive 5 minutes before departure and still make your flight — the jet waits for you, not the other way around. That said, arriving a bit early lets you enjoy the FBO lounge and reduces stress.
Yes, in most cases. Unlike commercial airlines where pets must travel in a carrier in the cargo hold, most private jets allow pets to travel in the cabin with you — often without a carrier. Simply confirm during booking. For international flights, additional documentation including health certificates and import permits is required. VIPMAKKI coordinates all pet travel documentation as part of your booking.
Yes. There is no "airplane mode" requirement on private flights (though pilots may ask you to stow devices during takeoff and landing). Most private jets have WiFi, power outlets, and charging ports. You can make phone calls, stream video, and work online throughout the flight. The cabin is yours to use as you wish.
Cancellation policies vary by operator and aircraft category. Most operators offer full refunds for cancellations made 48–72 hours before departure. Same-day cancellations typically incur a fee. VIPMAKKI advises on the specific cancellation terms for your booking and works with operators to minimize or waive fees when possible. If your plans change mid-trip, we can often adjust your return flight with minimal notice.
Tipping is never expected but is always appreciated. For pilots, $50–$200 depending on flight duration and service quality is a kind gesture. For flight attendants on larger jets, $50–$100 per crew member. FBO staff who handle your luggage: $5–$10 per bag. Many regular private flyers tip at the end of a multi-leg trip rather than after each segment. If you're unsure, VIPMAKKI can advise on what's appropriate for your specific situation.
Ready to experience private aviation? VIPMAKKI guides you through every step.
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