When it comes to chartering private flights, jet cards have become a popular option for many frequent fliers. However, there are certain disadvantages that should be considered before purchasing a jet card. Before committing to a jet card purchase, keep the following drawbacks in mind:
High initial cost
One of the primary drawbacks of jet cards is their initial upfront cost. For most individuals and companies, this significant upfront cost may prove prohibitively expensive. Additionally, some providers may require additional deposits or yearly dues in order to maintain jet cards.
They can be convoluted
Jet cards can be an incredibly confusing way to arrange private jet travel. Consumers often encounter hidden fees and restrictions that are difficult to understand, and these fees may not even be worth the price of the card itself. Furthermore, many cards have extra benefits that are not always clearly stated by the provider, making it hard for consumers to weigh their options when choosing a card. In short, jet cards offer few tangible benefits and can be more trouble than they’re worth.
Limited flexibility
Jet cards often come with predetermined flight requirements and restrictions. It is likely that cardholders will only receive a certain number of hours during each flight period, meaning if you want more time in the air beyond what your program allows for, you may have to pay extra fees. Some card companies even go so far as setting limits regarding how much luggage or cargo can be brought on board at one time. These stipulations can make it difficult for passengers to plan spontaneous trips or fly with large groups.
Travelers often have to plan around black-out dates
Most jet card programs will impose black-out dates. This means that during peak times or holidays, you may not be able to charter a private flight with your jet card. Further, many jet card programs have additional fees for last-minute change requests or cancelations. Therefore, when selecting your jet card program, make sure to read the fine print and understand all of the terms and conditions.
Smaller pool of available aircraft
Jet card holders generally have access to limited fleet options compared with booking charter flights directly through brokers or through other programs, such as JetMembership.com. This limits your choices regarding aircraft type, which can be important factors when decisions about fuel capacity, storage space and other needs must be made prior to departure. In fact, some jet card programs require that cardholders choose and commit to a certain type of aircraft for each private flight they will be booking through the program. This can be challenging, as it can be difficult to impossible to anticipate what your needs will be for each flight.
Unused time can go to waste
Most jet cards come with an expiration date, which can typically range from several months to a year after purchase, after which any unused hours go to waste. Make sure you’re aware of any expiration date attached to your jet card hours before making any final decisions.
You may have airport restrictions
Private jet travel provides a luxurious, convenient, and flexible experience for passengers. The last thing you want to happen is to feel restricted when it comes to your choice of destinations due to limitations from jet cards. Many jet card programs will only permit flying from designated airports or may have a limited selection of destinations available. This can create difficulties, especially when you are uncertain about the places you plan to fly at the time of booking.
A better alternative to jet cards
While jet cards offer convenience when it comes time to book charter flights, potential buyers should take all these potential drawbacks into consideration before investing in one. You may ultimately realize that jet cards are simply far more trouble than they’re worth and that the negatives outweigh any positives. As such, it’s important to take the time to weigh all of your options and determine which option is best for you. Jet cards can be a great way to save money on private jet travel if you fly frequently, but for most people, it is not the optimal solution that they once were. These days, there are much better ways to fly private. Through our JetMembership.com program, for instance, we offer a revolutionary way to fly private through our exclusive membership program. With our membership, you have access to on-demand private jet charters at deeply discounted rates.
So if you’re considering a jet card program, do your homework and make sure it meets all of your needs. And if you’re looking for a more flexible solution, consider our JetMembership program – because with us, convenience and fair pricing for our members always comes first. We invite you to explore our website and see what makes us different from other private jet companies. Fly smarter and more conveniently with JetMembership.com, and experience the ultimate in private jet travel. Contact us today!
