Riding in the Back of Some Nice Private Jets

Though the left seat is preferable, the passenger experience is worth it.

Dick Karl

Thursday, May 30, 2024 at 09:09 AM ET

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Edited By: tccjeremy

FLYING contributor Dick Karl steps off after traveling on an Embraer Phenom 300. [Courtesy: Dick Karl]

Key Takeaways:

The author recounts several exhilarating private jet flights offered by generous owners, highlighting the unique thrill of observing the flight deck and the impressive performance of various aircraft.
He experienced unexpected invitations on five such flights, including one with aviation legends John and Martha King and another with a self-made entrepreneur flying fellow pilots to the Gulfstream factory.
These journeys, while sometimes concluding abruptly, consistently fostered a profound appreciation for aviation, the skill of the pilots, and the exceptional generosity and camaraderie among those passionate about flying.

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Have you ever been a passenger in a private jet? Imagine sweeping up those stairs and finding just the perfect seat in the back. As you fasten your seat belt you hear the clunk of the door as it is secured. You note that the first officer has checked the locking pins. Drinks, anyone?

I’ve been a lucky passenger on five such flights, and I have found them to be exciting and fun, but frustrating. The first was the most impressive. At dinner one night many years ago I offered how I was flying commercially from Tampa, Florida, to Chicago the next day. My dinner guests said they were too—only they were chartering a jet. Would I like to join them? Well, OK. I promised to bring sandwiches for lunch as partial (miniscule) compensation.