When flying with a private jet charter, you'll not only have to plan where you're flying from and where you'll land, but also whether you'll need to refuel and where you need to refuel if it's necessary.

If you're flying to a destination further away than the specific private jet's range, this will most probably be the case. Because you'll pay for the time that is spent refueling, you'll have to plan your fuel stops to be as cost-efficient as possible.

So, by considering where to stop for fuel, and what you'll do during the fuel stop, you'll save both time and money.

In this post, we'll look at some of the things you need to consider when it comes to fuel stops, and how you can make fuel stops as efficient and cost-effective as possible.

When Is a Fuel Stop Needed?

So, when do you need a fuel stop on your trip? The answer lies in simple math. If the distance of your trip exceeds the range of your private jet, you'll need a fuel stop.

For example, a Citation X has a range of about 4,000 miles. Thus, if your planned trip is longer than this, you'll need to plan for a fuel stop along the way. If you don’t want to plan for a fuel stop on your journey, your best option would be to look at an aircraft that has a longer range.

Often, these aircraft may be more expensive to charter, so you’ll have to weigh up the costs of having a fuel stop compared to the more expensive charter that doesn’t need a fuel stop.

 

 

How Long Does a Fuel Stop Take?

Depending on the aircraft you're flying with, a fuel stop can take anything from 30 to 60 minutes. With smaller aircraft and proficient crew, the total ground time of a fuel stop can take as little as 30 minutes.

To save time during a fuel stop, pilots or the operator may call ahead when you're on your way, so that a fuel truck waits for the aircraft on arrival.

Now, you may wonder whether a fuel stop for an international flight takes longer than one for a domestic flight. There is actually no difference in the time it takes. Once, again, it depends on the fuel capacity of the specific aircraft.

 

 

Do Passengers Need To Disembark During a Fuel Stop?

Although it's generally recommended that passengers disembark during refueling, it depends on the refueling company.

Here, some companies will let passengers disembark during the refueling process. In contrast, other companies can refuel when the passengers are still on board. This can, for instance, be when the refueling service can't be obtained exactly when necessary.

This could also be necessary in some special cases like in the case of an air ambulance when the patient can't leave the aircraft.

It's important to remember, though, that when patients disembark on an international flight, they'll not be allowed to leave the airport unless they go through customs. For domestic flights, refueling can give passengers the opportunity to get some refreshments and relax until it's time to depart again.

When it comes to the crew, one pilot must remain in the aircraft while refueling takes place. This means that the co-pilot will usually remain with the aircraft, while the captain disembarks.

Planning For a Fuel Stop

As said earlier, if you want to avoid a fuel stop altogether, it's best to charter an aircraft with a long enough range. Remember, that if you pay an hourly rate to charter the flight, you'll have to pay for the time it takes to refuel. This means if you charter a jet with the right range, you'll end up possibly saving money.

Unfortunately, this isn't always possible. This doesn't mean that you'll waste time on a fuel stop, though, and you can plan for it.

For example, you can use this time to replenish onboard refreshments during a flight. Also, when flying internationally, you'll be able to go through customs during the refueling process. This means it won't be necessary when you reach your destination, and you'll, ultimately, save time when reaching your destination.

 

 

The Bottom Line

Sometimes a fuel stop is inevitable when you fly with a private jet charter. But this doesn't mean that you have to waste time and money when stopping for fuel. With the right planning, you'll be able to make fuel stops a relatively painless procedure, and you'll end up saving time and money in the process.

If you need to know more about planning for a fuel stop, or if you’re planning a private jet charter flight, visit our website for an instant quote, or contact us for more information. At Airacer, we work effortlessly to bring private aviation closer to clients all over the world by making flying accessible and affordable. With unlimited access to a worldwide network of aircrafts, our clients can enjoy the most tailored and cost-effective services wherever they are.

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