When a group grows past a hundred people, someone always asks: "Should we just charter a plane?" Sometimes the answer is yes. Here is how to think about it.
Side by side
| Scheduled group seats | Charter | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Per seat | Whole aircraft, including the empty return (positioning) leg |
| Timing | Airline's schedule | Your schedule, subject to airport slots |
| Airports | Airports the airline serves | Any airport that can take the aircraft |
| Lead time | Weeks | Weeks to months, plus permissions |
| Cancellation | Fare rules per seat | Contract terms, often stricter |
When a charter makes sense
- You need everyone on one aircraft at one time.
- The destination has few or no scheduled flights.
- The group is large enough to fill the aircraft both ways, or the cost of the empty leg is acceptable.
When it does not
For most corporate, wedding and student groups, two or three scheduled flights are cheaper and far more flexible. If a few people drop out, you lose a few seats — not a fixed cost for an entire aircraft.
Quick answers
How far ahead should a charter be planned?
As early as possible. Aircraft availability and airport slot permissions take time, especially in peak seasons.
Airline group rules differ by carrier, route and season, and they change. Treat this guide as a planning aid — the fare rules written on your AirRJ quote are what apply to your booking.