At first, arranging a charter flight seems to be complicated. There are no published schedules, and literally hundreds of different charter operators to choose from.
For someone who has never flown private before, there may be even more confusion.
How to find the best value? How can you ensure you have a safe aircraft and qualified pilots? What about when you land?
Luckily, it is not that complicated!. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to charter a flight.
What are Charter Flights?
Private Air Charter Flights are a flexible and convenient way to travel. Charter flight procedure removes the delays incurred by airport check-in policies, security, and boarding gate procedures.
Also, when chartering a plane, you can visit destinations not served by commercial airlines and all on your own schedule.
Who Should Arrange Your Charter Flight?
Unless you know who to contact directly, using a broker when chartering a plane makes a lot of sense. Brokers have existing relationships with the charter Operators and are themselves experienced in aviation.
This means that they can help you work out the most appropriate solution for your requirements. As well, by working with a broker that you trust, you can be sure that the price will be fair and reasonable.
Chartering a plane has never been easier. We’ll organise everything for you!
How to Charter a Flight: Step-by-Step
The process is designed to be simple and transparent. Here’s how to charter a flight, step-by-step:
1. Submit a flight request
You’ll need to provide the following key details so your Broker or Operator can prepare an accurate quote:
- Departure and destination
- Number of passengers
- Preferred date and time
- Stops along the route (if any)
- Type of aircraft (economy, business, jet, or helicopter)
- Budget or comfort expectations
2. Get your tailored quote
Your quote includes the full cost of the aircraft, pilot, and return positioning. It’s priced for the entire plane, not per seat.
Note: The pricing of a charter flight always includes the aircraft returning to the point of departure, so the aircraft can be positioned for the next job. This means that there isn’t really a one-way price for private charter flights.
3. Review and confirm
Once you accept the quote, your Broker or Operator handles scheduling, safety checks, and logistics.
4. Arrive and fly
You’ll receive your itinerary with directions to the private terminal or regional airfield. Simply arrive shortly before take-off. No queues, no delays.
Note: Flying via a private aircraft charter is not the same as a discount airline between two major airports. Check out our full guide to understand the benefits of a charter flight.
How Much Does It Cost to Charter a Flight?
Flight charter costs vary depending on the aircraft, distance, and travel time. Typical averages per kilometre are:
| Aircraft Type | Comfort Level | Average Speed | Estimated Cost (AUD/km) |
| Helicopter | Basic comfort | 200 km/h | $6/km |
| Economy | Value option | 270 km/h | $4/km |
| Business | High comfort | 600 km/h | $4/km |
| Jet | Premium comfort | up to 800 km/h | $4-$12/km |
Learn more about how we calculate your charter flight cost.
Conclusion
Using a private aircraft charter for your next flight can make a lot of sense. It is different from flying commercially, and so is the process of making the booking.
Once you understand how to charter a flight correctly, you will know just what to expect when seeking a charter flight quote. Plus, if you go with an experienced and reputable broker like FlightCharter.com.au, everything will be carefully handled so your flight is safe and clear from take-off to landing
Are you ready to plan your next trip? Get a free quote today or speak directly with one of our Flight Managers on 1800 OUR FLIGHT.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How far in advance should I book?
We recommend at least 3–5 days’ notice, or up to 2 weeks during busy seasons.
2. Can I book a one-way flight?
Yes, but pricing will still include the aircraft’s return to base.
3. Can pets travel on private flights?
Absolutely! We regularly arrange pet charters across Australia.
4. Are private charters safe?
Yes. At FlightCharter.com.au, every flight is operated by CASA-licensed professionals and aircraft maintained to commercial standards.
5. Can I share the cost with others?
Yes. Since the quote covers the whole aircraft, passengers can split the fare.
