Private Aviation Glossary

Plain-English definitions of the terms you'll encounter when booking a private jet. Written honestly, with specific names, numbers, and the occasional caveat.

Aircraft

Private Jet Categories
Private jets are grouped into four broad categories (light, midsize, heavy, and long-range) defined by cabin size, range, and mission. Super-midsize and ultra-long-range are sub-categories that sit between the main four.
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Regulatory

Part 135 Operator
A Part 135 operator is a company holding an FAA-issued certificate under Title 14, Part 135 of the federal regulations: the certificate that legally authorizes on-demand charter flights in the United States. If a company flies you for money, it must operate under a Part 135 certificate.
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Operations

FBO (Fixed-Base Operator)
An FBO is the private terminal at an airport where charter passengers arrive, board, and depart. The same airport often has several FBOs run by different companies, each with its own lounge, ramp, and clientele.
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Commercial

Empty Leg Flight
An empty leg is a one-way private jet flight sold at a discount because the aircraft would otherwise fly empty on that route. Discounts range from roughly 25% to 75% off a standard charter, with a catch: you take the schedule as it is.
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