Flying is one of the most convenient and fastest ways to travel. As a result, according to aviation data research firm Wingx, private plane usage has soared with a record 3.3 million flights worldwide in 2021. And the popularity of private planes will likely continue to grow in the future.
With a private airplane, you can avoid long lines at the airport, get preferential treatment from airlines, and fly directly to your destination. However, there are also several disadvantages to owning a private plane that should be considered before purchasing.
Listed below are some pros and cons of owning a private airplane.
Pros
1. You can fly wherever you want, whenever you want.
Owning your private plane means flying whenever and wherever you want. You can take off from any airport that can accommodate your plane and land at any airport with a runway. Plus, you don’t have to worry about weather delays or cancellations.
Whether you’re flying to a business meeting or a family vacation, owning a private plane gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule. And because you’re not relying on commercial airlines, you can avoid crowded airports and busy flight schedules. If you’re looking for the ultimate flexibility and convenience, owning a private plane is the way to go.
2. There are no TSA screenings or long lines.
If you’ve ever flown commercial, you know the drill:
- Show up early to the airport.
- Take off your shoes and belt.
- Empty your pockets.
- Put all of your liquids in a clear plastic bag.
- Go through security.
With a private plane, you can avoid all of that. There are no TSA screenings or long lines, which means you can show up at the airport just before your flight. And because you’re not flying with a commercial airline, you don’t have to follow their rules and regulations. That means you can bring food and drinks on board, and there’s no need to worry about liquid restrictions.
3. You can avoid the hassles of flying commercial.
Flying commercial can be a hassle. From lost luggage to delays and cancellations, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. And when things do go wrong, it’s often the passengers who suffer the consequences.
When you own a private plane, you don’t have to worry about that. If your flight is delayed or canceled, you can simply reschedule. And if your luggage is lost, you don’t have to worry about filing a claim with the airline.
4. You can bring your family and friends on your trips.
Another advantage of owning a private plane is bringing your family and friends on your trips. Suppose you’re flying to a wedding or a family reunion. In that case, you can save money by flying everyone together on your private plane. And suppose you’re taking a group vacation. You can avoid the hassle of coordinating travel plans with a large group of people.
5. You can save money on airfare.
If you often fly, owning a private plane can save you a lot of money on airfare. Commercial airlines typically charge per person, so the cost of tickets can add up quickly if you’re traveling with a group. But when you own a private plane, you only have to pay for the cost of fuel and maintenance.
In addition, many private plane owners belong to “fractional ownership” programs. These programs allow you to share the cost of the plane with other owners, which can significantly reduce the cost of ownership.
Cons
1. Private airplanes are expensive to buy and maintain.
There’s no denying that private airplanes are expensive. Not only do you have to pay for the cost of the plane itself, but you also have to pay for the cost of fuel and maintenance. And if you’re not a pilot, you’ll also need to hire someone to fly the plane. Suppose the plane gets damaged in any way. In that case, you’ll need to ground it for a few weeks for repairs and look for an aircraft components supplier that would be able to cater to the specific model and type required.
In addition, private planes are subject to the same taxes and fees as commercial aircraft. So if you’re planning to use your airplane for business travel, you can expect to pay a significant amount in taxes and fees.
2. They require more piloting skills than commercial planes.
Private planes are typically smaller and lighter than commercial planes, requiring more piloting skills. One of the most significant differences is in the takeoff and landing. Private planes usually take off and land on shorter airstrips, which can be challenging in terms of accuracy and speed. On the other hand, commercial aircraft take off and land on much longer airstrips, so the pilot has more time to correct any mistakes.
In addition, private planes are often flown in adverse weather conditions, such as strong crosswinds. This can be difficult to navigate, especially for inexperienced pilots. So while flying a private plane may be more convenient, it does require more piloting skills.
3. You need a hangar and a lot of space to store them.
Another downside of owning a private plane is that you need a hangar to store it. These can be pricey, and you’ll also need to ensure you have enough space on your property to keep the plane. Secondly, you must consider getting the plane from the hangar to the runway. This usually requires a tow truck or a tractor. And finally, you need to be aware of the cost of fuel and upkeep.
4. They can be challenging to fly in bad weather conditions.
Private planes can be challenging to fly in bad weather conditions. The larger the aircraft, the more difficult it is to control turbulence. Private pilots also have to contend with crosswinds, making landing and takeoffs particularly dangerous.
In addition, private planes are often not equipped with the same sophisticated navigation and weather-tracking equipment that commercial airlines use. As a result, flying in bad weather can be a risky proposition for private pilots.
Private planes have their pros, but they also come with a few cons. If you can afford the plane and the associated costs, it’s a great way to fly around without all the hassles of commercial travel. However, if you’re on a tight budget or don’t have the piloting skills required to fly a private plane, you may want to stick with flying commercial. Weigh these things carefully before deciding if owning a private plane suits you.
