Frequently Asked Questions

There are two major differences between private aircraft and scheduled airline service: cost and flexibility. Although booking a flight via a charter service company is generally more expensive, they do provide a much higher degree of flexibility. With Pentastar Aviation Charter, Inc. your charter will fly on YOUR schedule to the domestic or international destination of YOUR choice. Our service to both major and general aviation airports gives you access to more than ten times as many domestic destinations as scheduled airline service. In addition, we have international experience operating in more than 80 countries.

Because charter aircraft is not priced on a per person or ticket basis, it is not likely that it would be more cost effective for a group of 10-15 individuals to charter a aircraft compared with flying via scheduled airline service in coach or first class. Even if the total cost for a charter trip is split among 10 people, the cost each person would cover would still be significant.

Like scheduled airline service, private aircraft also have weight limits with regard to the amount of luggage that can be stowed during a trip. Items such as skis and golf clubs are allowed as long as they conform to the dimensions and weight limits of the aircraft. These weight limits vary by aircraft type. Ask your charter sales representative if you have concerns about excess baggage or special items to be included in your luggage.

At Pentastar Aviation, we focus first and foremost on passenger safety. There are no age restrictions for passengers on private aircraft. Just let us know if you are traveling with a child, and we’ll be sure the aircraft selected for your trip will accommodate your family’s needs. Please note, however, neither PACI nor Pentastar Aviation will transport unaccompanied minors under the age of 18. Domestic pets are allowed on some aircraft. Make sure to let your charter sales representative know if you will be traveling with a pet so we can accommodate your request. Please note that exotic animals may not be allowed, especially on international flights.

PACI features a large and diverse fleet including mid-size and heavy jets, which can accommodate up to 18 passengers. See more about our Available Fleet.

Every aspect of our operations at PACI revolves around a steadfast commitment to safety. To ensure maximum safety for our customers, all aircraft operated by PACI are IS-BAO Registered, ARGUS Platinum Rated, Wyvern Registered and have a robust Safety Management System (SMS) and a comprehensive Emergency Response Plan (ERP). All charter flights are tracked by FAA licensed dispatchers in our 24/7 Operation Control Center. Pentastar Aviation meets the maximum industry safety standards.

Your dedicated charter sales representative will assist you with planning every aspect of your trip. PACI licensed dispatchers will provide flight following and any other necessary assistance during your flight. Our expert Operations Control Center staff is available 24/7 to provide support before, during or after your flight.

Hourly charter rates vary from about $1,200 to $8,500 per flight hour, depending on the type of aircraft you require. Trip minimums are 2.0 flight hours/day.

As an operator with more than a 50 year legacy, you will benefit from our experience and expertise in aircraft management. We will provide you with a program that allows for worry-free flight operations by employing, training and supervising the crew, overseeing the maintenance, monitoring FAA regulatory compliance, and providing overall support and scheduling assistance for travel anywhere in the world by our FAA-Licensed flight followers 24/7. Pentastar Aviation will also handle all financial accounting for your aircraft providing you with customized reporting on a monthly basis. It will be like having your own in-house flight department without the responsibility or overhead as well as the benefits of increased buying power from a world-class provider.

We manage a wide array of business aircraft ranging from turboprop to ultra long-range business jets and business airliners. As an FAA Authorized Part 145 Repair Station and all-encompassing service provider with unlimited maintenance capabilities, we are uniquely qualified to maintain every size business aircraft.

We specialize in remote aircraft management. Our organizational support structure allows you to capitalize on a worldwide selection of locations to serve as your base of operations.

Pentastar Aviation is committed to enabling superior performance of its workforce. Assigned personnel are managed and supported by Pentastar Aviation and the robust training programs and related job qualification processes we provide. Our processes involve performance evaluations to allow for continuous improvement as well as development opportunities for all employees. Pilots undergo ground school and simulator training every six months, conducted by Flight Safety International, as well as emergency, international, and company specific training on an annual basis. Cabin attendants receive training through Flight Safety International, in the areas of cabin safety, FAA regulations, customer service, aircraft and emergency procedures.

Adding your aircraft to Pentastar Aviation Charter, Inc.’s (PACI) charter certificate will allow you to do this. Your aircraft, when not in use by you, can be offered to applicable customers for charter with your expressed permission. Adding your aircraft to our charter certificate will allow you to generate revenue to offset the cost of operation as well as sometimes yielding tax benefits.

The pilots and maintenance personnel hired by Pentastar Aviation are selected to ensure a harmonious fit. Applicants are thoroughly screened, and then presented to you for approval, as they will be dedicated to your aircraft. We require all pilots hold Airline Transport Pilot Certificates and First Class Medical Certificates. All maintenance personnel must hold a FAA Airframe & Powerplant Certificate and possess relevant experience.

Yes. Combining Pentastar Aviation’s Part 91 and Pentastar Aviation Charter Inc.’s Part 135 Management programs, you are able to take advantage of our expertise in managing your aircraft as well as enabling us to generate additional revenue for you by placing your aircraft on our charter certificate.

Each month you will receive a series of integrated, computerized reports that document the operational and economic activity of the aircraft for that month. Year-to-date and year-end metrics are also provided for program planning, control, and analysis.

At Pentastar Aviation and Pentastar Aviation Charter, Inc., every aspect of our private charter flight operations revolves around our steadfast commitment to safety. In fact, the importance placed on safety standards and processes is at the forefront of the Pentastar Aviation culture for every employee. Our team has decades of experience meeting rigorous private jet safety standards and we are committed to continuously evaluating our industry-leading safety programs. Our mission is to consistently exceed established industry standards, ensuring your aviation experience is safe and secure. We are IS-BAO registered, ARG/US Platinum Rated, a Wyvern Registered Operator, member of the Air Charter Safety Foundation, and have a robust Safety Management System (SMS) and comprehensive Emergency Response Plan (ERP).