Fabulous Fare Anywhere: A Comprehensive Guide to Business Jet Catering

Your bags are safely stowed away, you’ve settled into the leather couch, and you’ll be wheels up in a few minutes. It’s in that moment you realize you skipped breakfast in your haste to leave the house this morning. Thankfully, you remembered to request business jet catering while booking your flight.

Whether you’re taking a quick domestic flight between states or heading across the Atlantic, you can enjoy a variety of in-flight dining options aboard your aircraft.

Here’s everything you need to know about business jet catering.

Is food served on a private jet?

Yes! When you book a private jet charter, the whole world is at your fingertips, including food and beverages. No matter what kind of food you prefer, you can enjoy it from the comfort of your aircraft cabin.

In-flight catering professionals that serve private jet passengers are experts at catering to food preferences and unique requests. They can customize meals to suit even the most exotic whims. Though the type of food you can select for your flight is limited by the location of your departure, private jet caterers are resourceful and can make the most of locally sourced ingredients.

In fact, the Stratos in-flight menu and independent catering menus can be used as a source of inspiration. When thinking about business jet catering, the sky is the limit.

What do they serve on private jets?

Did you know that the cabin pressure and humidity and the altitude you fly at can affect your tastebuds? Salty and sweet flavours are the ones mostly affected. You may want to consider this when ordering in-flight meals and skip bland food items, like light-coloured wines, poached chicken and some vegetables.

Private jet caterers are adept at preparing menus that feature flavorful food items, like:

• Seafood
• Cured meats
• Aged cheeses
• Soy foods
• Kimchi
• Olives

Some of the most popular catering options include charcuterie boards and sushi that contain these items.

Sometimes, however, it may be wise to consider your aircraft size when making business jet catering requests.

Catering options by aircraft category

Catering requests may not meet expectations if the aircraft isn’t equipped with enough space or the proper amenities to accommodate the requested menu items.

Here’s a look at the different categories of charter aircraft and recommendations for business jet catering.

Turboprops, very light jets, light jets & super light jets

Though these aircraft are economical, they don’t come with too much extra space. The best food options to consider for these charters include snacks, light nibbles and light refreshments.

The amount of time spent on these aircraft is usually minimal, so large meals aren’t typically considered. Of course, a large meal may be provided, but without a microwave or stove to reheat it, it’s best to take advantage of the warm meal as soon as the aircraft is wheels up.

Some of the popular requests for this type of aircraft include:

• Canapes
• Small desserts
• Charcuterie boards
• Pastries
• Fresh fruit and vegetable platters

Midsize jets, super midsize jets, heavy jets, and long-range jets

Larger jets have much more room to accommodate business jet catering requests. They’re also equipped with kitchen amenities and chartered for their ability to reach far-away destinations, making them a much more suitable option for larger meals.

Some of the popular dining requests on these aircraft include:

• Sandwich and wrap platters
• Mixed grill platters
• Veal, lamb, chicken and steak entrees
• Pasta dishes
• Soups and salads

How much does a business jet cost to charter?

The cost of chartering a business jet depends on the size of the aircraft, the distance travelled and additional concierge services, like business jet catering. Here’s a look at some of our most popular charter requests, including the hourly rate.

Bombardier Global Express

The ultra long-range Global Express jet can reach a maximum range of 6,170 nautical miles, soar at speeds of 548 miles per hour and comfortably accommodate 14 passengers. Some of the more notable amenities include:

• stateroom with bed
• full-sized bathroom
• full-service galley with oven
• state-of-the-art entertainment system

Hourly rate: Up to $17,000 per hour

Bombardier Challenger 300

The Challenger 300 is a super mid-size jet that cruises at an altitude of 45,000 feet and reaches speeds of 528 miles per hour. It can also accommodate 9 passengers comfortably. Other notable amenities include:

• well-equipped galleys
• advanced flight management system
• satcom telephones
• high-end communication and entertainment systems

Hourly rate: Up to $11,000

Gulfstream GIV

The much-loved Gulfstream GIV heavy jet is capable of flying 14 passengers non-stop for up to 4,300 nautical miles. It also comes equipped with:

• oversized captain’s chairs
• 169-cubic foot storage compartment
• private stateroom
• all-glass digital cockpit
• full-service galley

Hourly rate: Up to $13,000 per hour

Bombardier Lear 45

The Lear 45 is a super light-jet with room for 8 passengers. It’s cruise speed comes in around 535 miles per hour, and it boasts a maximum range of 2,265 nautical miles. Some of the amenities featured on this aircraft include:

• comfortable leather chairs
• flat-floor cabin
• fold-down tables
• small refreshment center

Hourly rate: Up to $9,000 per hour

Looking for a better pricing estimate? Our online cost estimator can provide you with a rough estimate in second.

What is the most economical business jet?

That depends on your travel needs. If you don’t have far to fly, a turboprop or very light jet is your best option; however, your private flight advisor can help you find the most economical business jet for your upcoming trip.

At Stratos, we’ve been booking private jet charters for clients for nearly two decades. From arranging business jet catering to securing the safest jet charters available, we’ll make sure your next charter flight is a memorable one. Request a free quote or call 888.593.9066 to get started.