THE PRIVATE JET LUGGAGE GUIDE: WHAT FITS, WHAT FLIES AND HOW TO PACK WITH FXAIR
An important part of planning any trip is deciding what to take along with you. For commercial travelers, navigating airline luggage regulations and security lines can be a major headache. With multiple stops and checkpoints as you move your way through an airport, the process of actually arriving at your gate can be quite tedious. Private travel, on the other hand, has a far more streamlined security process, enabling you to arrive just 15 minutes before takeoff. This exclusivity, efficiency and attentiveness is a guarantee with an FXAIR charter.
Apart from the speed and privacy associated with private charters, one of the most attractive benefits of private jet travel is the ability to have more control and fewer restrictions over your baggage. This is particularly advantageous for travelers attending sports outings or going on long-term holidays and desiring to save time prior to boarding.
However, there are still some luggage guidelines, tips and best practices that every traveler should know before their private jet charter trip. At FXAIR, our white glove approach means our Private Aviation Advisor and Client Services team will answer any questions you may have regarding luggage policies and even recommend aircraft that are best suited for your journey.
Continue reading to learn more about private jet luggage and how to ensure a seamless journey from start to finish.
HOW LUGGAGE REALLY WORKS ON PRIVATE JETS
As aircraft size increases, so does luggage flexibility. Final allowance depends on passenger count, baggage volume and cabin dimensions. A helpful tip to fit as much as possible is that soft-sided luggage packs best.
Private aircraft measure luggage capacity by cubic feet. For reference, a Cadillac Escalade – a popular aircraft transfer vehicle - has about 121 ft³ of luggage capacity with the seats folded down.
See the luggage capacity on some of our most popular FXSelect aircraft below.
Phenom 300: 76 ft³ \ Challenger 300: 106 ft³ \ Global Express: 185 ft³
A major advantage of most private jets is the ability to offer in-flight access to baggage. Many super-midsize and ultra-long-range jets offer internal or in-flight accessible compartments that allow you to retrieve items during the journey.
For example, the Phenom 300 does not offer a temperature-controlled, pressurized luggage compartment or in-flight access. However, the Challenger 300 and Global Express do feature a pressurized, internally accessible luggage compartment with consistent heating to protect your belongings. These are important factors for determining whether you will pack items like toiletries and liquids in the cabin or luggage compartment. Your Private Aviation Advisor will be able to confirm whether your specific aircraft offers in-flight luggage access and any additional details you may need to consider when packing.
For specialty sporting equipment or other unique items, our team will be able to guide you towards choosing the right aircraft to accommodate your trip.
ALWAYS PACK WHAT YOU NEED
At FXAIR, we are prepared to handle a variety of trips and ensure you and your guests have everything you need. Below are some of the many missions we are prepared to execute seamlessly and the aircraft type that may best suit your journey.
Golf Weekends — Your golf clubs and weekend duffel bags can easily fit onboard a super-midsize jet.
Ski Trips & Winter Getaways — Skis typically fit on light and super-mid jets with the right door dimensions. Consider a super-mid or larger option for families who will be bringing boots, helmets and winter wear.
Family Travel with Strollers & Car Seats — Strollers and FAA-approved child seats are welcome onboard FXAIR aircraft; we plan stowage locations and belt configurations before your flight.
Pets — We routinely arrange pet-friendly cabins and enforce cleaning standards across our network for effortless travel with pets.
WHAT CAN I BRING?
● Liquids: You are not bound by airline 3-1-1 rules, but hazardous materials rules still apply.
● Lithium batteries, fuels, aerosols and flammables: The FAA forbids or restricts fuels and other items. Our team will advise on exceptions and packaging.
● Other Questions? If you have a question about any other potentially restricted items you wish to bring, your advisor will instruct you on how to proceed.
FXAIR MAKES LUGGAGE EASY
Our white glove approach to service means that our team takes the guesswork out of planning, offering concierge-like treatment from start to finish. Our Client Services team sizes every item, selects the right aircraft and coordinates handling at the FBO for all luggage requests. No matter the nature of your travels, we will work to ensure you arrive refreshed, relaxed and with everything you need.
PRIVATE JET LUGGAGE FAQs
1. Can I access my luggage during flight? Yes, you can access your luggage on jets that have internal or pressurized holds. Check with your Aviation Advisor prior to your flight to see if this is an option on your journey.
2. Do 3-1-1 liquid limits apply? These limits do not apply in the same way as airline security, but FAA dangerous goods rules still apply. (Federal Aviation Administration)
3. Should I pack hard-sided or soft-sided luggage? While our aircraft can accommodate either, soft-sided packs more efficiently through smaller baggage doors and irregular spaces.
4. How many golf bags can we bring? This depends on aircraft and headcount; Phenom 300 and Challenger 300 commonly handle multiple sets. We will measure your bag length against the door height to confirm the right aircraft for the mission.
5. Can skis fit? Yes, on many models, when door height and depth allow, skis can fit in the luggage compartment.
7. Are there weight limits per bag? We engineer to total payload, not just per-bag rules.
8. Can I bring firearms onboard? Yes, you can bring firearms onboard, but you must notify our team before your flight. Your firearm must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided case. The ammunition needs to be stored in a separate, secure box. Then, both cases need to be stored in a manner so they are inaccessible during flight.
9. Will my oxygen concentrator be allowed onboard? As long as your oxygen concentrator is a portable, FAA-approved model, you are allowed to bring it onboard. We recommend consulting with your doctor prior to your flight to address any concerns.