One of the big advantages of private jet travel is flexibility. Private aviation travelers have flexibility with where and when to fly, the route to take, and even what aircraft to use. Such aircraft can land at a wide range of airports - from the most prominent commercial airports to those with dedicated private facilities.

Choosing an airport

It's not entirely true that a private jet can land anywhere - but they certainly have much more choice than commercial aircraft. Operators must select airports with suitable runway sizes and surface conditions for the specific aircraft and offer the required facilities for the particular flight operation. Safety and navigation equipment may be a consideration as well. They are also subject to the same legal and operating restrictions as any other aircraft - including the availability of customs for international flights and complying with operating hours or noise restrictions.

Commercial airports

Private jets can use most of the same commercial airports as airlines and charter operators. This may be the only choice in some cities - especially in smaller towns and cities.

Some airports, such as London Heathrow, do not usually permit private flights. Other airports may have dedicated separate terminals for private jets (operated by a Fixed Based Operator or FBO). FBOs are found at commercial and private airports and will handle arrival, ground services, and passenger/crew logistics for private operators. These can also assist with aircraft service, storage, and more. In the US, Chicago Midway is a good example of a popular shared commercial airport. In London, Luton, Stansted, and London City are all frequently used by private jets.

Photo: Markus Mainka / Shutterstock

Commercial airports may not be the preferred choice for many private flights, even when possible. They are typically located further from city centers, but smaller aircraft usually have closer options. Commercial facilities are also larger, more time-consuming, and expensive to use. This is especially the case at major hubs. These may accept private flights - but at a higher cost than smaller or private airports, yet with more hassle.

Private-focussed airports

In addition to commercial airports, many airports focus on the private aviation sector. These tend to be available in most major cities and are much more common for private and business jets to use. This is why you will rarely see private aircraft landing at New York JFK, Los Angeles LAX, or some of London's airports.

Photo: Quist via Wikimedia

Private facilities are not only lower-cost than larger commercial airports; the airport and FBOs based there are designed around the needs of private jet users. They usually facilitate fast arrivals and departures for passengers through the terminal and for aircraft maneuvering, something business aviation travelers will be fond of. These airports typically offer multiple FBOs, all offering tailored services for private passengers, private jet crews, and operators. Some prominent examples of such private-use airports include:

• Teterboro Airport in New York - Currently the busiest private airport in the US
• Boeing Field Airport in Seattle
• Palm Beach, Florida
• Farnborough Airport and Biggin Hill (a former RAF base) in London. Private jets also often use Luton and Stansted commercial airports
• Le Bourget Airport near Paris

Private airfields

As a final consideration for private jet operations, don't forget private airfields. With business aircraft, operators are not tied to commercial airports. With enough space and money, owners can even build their own airport. While this is rather uncommon, the best-known example is probably John Travolta's runway and parking facilities at his personal property.

There are plenty more examples of airports used for private aviation. Feel free to discuss this further in the comments section.