Jet Partners' Private Jet Charter Blog

Though the latest government shutdown was resolved – at least temporarily – on January 25, 2019, we’re not out of the woods yet. President Trump has made it clear that he’s dedicated to building his border wall, and has implied that he’s willing to shut the government down again if Congress does not reach an agreement by February 15.

One of the areas of the government that was the most affected by the shutdown was air transport. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) staff were furloughed or were working without pay – and so were air traffic controllers.

These factors have made air travel difficult for most flyers – with a notable exception. Charter flyers are not experiencing ill effects due to the government shutdown, and likely will not be affected by any future shutdowns. Let’s discuss a few of the benefits of chartering flights during government shutdowns now.

1. Charter Planes Fly From Smaller, Regional Airports

Unlike traditional, large jetliners, charter planes tend to travel out of smaller, regional airports. This means that there is a lower likelihood of delays and other issues due to long security lines, and that any absences of FAA personnel or air traffic controllers are less likely to lead to serious issues with transportation.

2. The TSA Does Not Screen At Private Facilities

If you’re flying into and out of a private airport, you don’t have to worry about any long TSA lines, because the TSA does not screen passengers at private facilities. While there may be private security personnel on site, the government shutdown won’t affect them – because they are not employed by the TSA.

That means you can expect a predictable wait for security at a private facility, without worrying about TSA absences or other factors affecting the time it takes to be screened – potentially causing you to miss a flight.

3. Private Jet Charter Is More Convenient, Does Not Require Layovers/Connections

Negotiating multiple airports due to layovers or connections can be more difficult during a government shutdown, particularly if you’re exiting and re-entering the airport. If there is a work stoppage or another issue, your flight could be delayed or canceled.

In contrast, private jet charter usually does not require any kind of layover or connection, unless the plane must stop to refuel during a long, cross-country trip. This means that your schedule will be more predictable, and you will avoid any potential issues related to the government shutdown, and its effects on public airports.

Need To Fly During The Government Shutdown? Consider A Private Jet Charter!

The government shutdown is, as noted, currently over – but if things don’t go Trump’s way by February 15, things could get nasty.

If the shutdown is prolonged for too long, FAA air traffic controllers or TSA personnel could quit or go on strike – which could cause major delays and damage to our public air infrastructure.

To avoid these issues, however, those with the means can choose a private jet charter – because the small size and private nature of most regional airports mean charter flights are mostly unaffected, and a good alternative for those with the budget needed to charter a plane.