Business

March 24, 2025

The Truth About Chartering a Gulfstream: What Clients Need to Know

Private jet charters vary in quality. Discover hidden costs and key factors in booking a Gulfstream.

Think all private jet charters are the same? Think again.

With a rise in booking platforms and charter brokers promising unbeatable rates, Andrew Gulsrud, COO of Prime Jet, warns that not all charters are created equal.

“There’s a lot of bait-and-switch in this industry,” Gulsrud explains. “Some operators will quote an artificially low hourly rate to attract business—but the real costs come later.”

Hidden Costs to Watch For

Before booking a Gulfstream charter, ask these key questions:

🛩 What’s included in the rate? Some operators advertise low rates but charge extra for positioning flights, overnight fees, or hidden surcharges.

🛩 Who’s maintaining the aircraft? A well-maintained jet from a reputable operator is always safer and more reliable.

🛩 What happens if something goes wrong? An experienced operator like Prime Jet has backup aircraft and contingency plans—something budget charters often lack.

The Floating Fleet Advantage

Prime Jet operates a floating fleet, meaning their Gulfstreams aren’t tied to a single base. This allows for more one-way pricing and flexibility, giving clients better value compared to traditional models where jets must return to their home base.

“We move our jets like chess pieces,” Gulsrud says. “It’s a balancing act of keeping aircraft positioned where demand is highest, while also keeping costs manageable for our clients.”

The Bottom Line

Luxury travel is about more than price—it’s about reliability, safety, and service. If a charter rate seems too good to be true, it probably is. Clients booking Gulfstream charters should prioritize trusted operators over bargain deals to ensure a seamless and safe experience.

Want to make smarter charter decisions?

Tune in to Andrew Gulsrud’s full interview on the Ironbird Podcast with Daniel Harris. Learn what truly matters when booking a private jet: https://buff.ly/QqqWZtb

Ironbird Partners is committed to delivering unparalleled expertise in private aviation, charter management, and aircraft ownership.

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Stay Ahead in Private Aviation:
Download Our Free "State of Aviation" Report

Discover the latest trends, pricing insights, and expert analysis in the private jet market. This comprehensive report is essential for making informed decisions and optimizing your travel experiences. Perfect for busy professionals and luxury travelers looking to stay ahead.

DISCLAIMER

Disclaimer: Ironbird Partners LLC (the Air Charter Broker) acting as an “Authorized Agent” for the Charterer (client) shall; Contract for transportation services with only FAR Part 135 Direct Air Carriers or their foreign Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) equivalent that operate and exercise full operational control over those flights at all times. Flights can be sourced through Ironbird Partners, LLC Preferred Direct Air Carriers that meet all FAA or CAA safety standards and additional safety standards established by Ironbird Partners LLC. Ironbird Partners LLC is an Air Charter Broker and NOT a direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier. All air service shall be provided by a properly licensed direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier.

Stay Ahead in Private Aviation:
Download Our Free "State of Aviation" Report

Discover the latest trends, pricing insights, and expert analysis in the private jet market. This comprehensive report is essential for making informed decisions and optimizing your travel experiences. Perfect for busy professionals and luxury travelers looking to stay ahead.

DISCLAIMER

Disclaimer: Ironbird Partners LLC (the Air Charter Broker) acting as an “Authorized Agent” for the Charterer (client) shall; Contract for transportation services with only FAR Part 135 Direct Air Carriers or their foreign Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) equivalent that operate and exercise full operational control over those flights at all times. Flights can be sourced through Ironbird Partners, LLC Preferred Direct Air Carriers that meet all FAA or CAA safety standards and additional safety standards established by Ironbird Partners LLC. Ironbird Partners LLC is an Air Charter Broker and NOT a direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier. All air service shall be provided by a properly licensed direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier.

Stay Ahead in Private Aviation:
Download Our Free "State of Aviation" Report

Discover the latest trends, pricing insights, and expert analysis in the private jet market. This comprehensive report is essential for making informed decisions and optimizing your travel experiences. Perfect for busy professionals and luxury travelers looking to stay ahead.

DISCLAIMER

Disclaimer: Ironbird Partners LLC (the Air Charter Broker) acting as an “Authorized Agent” for the Charterer (client) shall; Contract for transportation services with only FAR Part 135 Direct Air Carriers or their foreign Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) equivalent that operate and exercise full operational control over those flights at all times. Flights can be sourced through Ironbird Partners, LLC Preferred Direct Air Carriers that meet all FAA or CAA safety standards and additional safety standards established by Ironbird Partners LLC. Ironbird Partners LLC is an Air Charter Broker and NOT a direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier. All air service shall be provided by a properly licensed direct air carrier or direct foreign air carrier.