Around here, we call it the “trip of a lifetime,” though that hardly does it justice. You might remember last month’s column that left off at an improbably tasty restaurant in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, after just the first day of a 23-day private jet tour of Europe. Air Journey organized the trip, and it featured three airplanes: two Cessna CJ3+s and “our” Cessna M2. I say “our” because my wife, Cathy, and I were guests of Pete and Shardel, the actual owners of this glamorous Garmin-bedecked M2.
General Aviation Flying in Europe
Key Takeaways:
- The article chronicles a 23-day private jet tour of Europe, organized by Air Journey, highlighting the extensive logistical support needed for complex international private aviation.
- Private flying in Europe differs significantly from the US, featuring complex airspace, fragmented air traffic control, non-linear flight paths due to country-specific billing, and stringent slot requirements.
- European FBOs often entail high handling fees, remote parking requiring reliance on ground services, and strict regulations with substantial fines for non-compliance.
- Despite memorable cultural experiences, the author ultimately appreciated the comparative simplicity, unified ATC, and lower costs of private flying in the United States.
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