Smart Aviation, the leaders in global commercial aircraft and private jet charters, has been involved in flights for the film and TV production industry over the company’s last two decades. Our experienced team have chartered aircraft for cast and crew movements on considerable productions and frequently fly high-profile talent for filming projects.
Our portfolio of working with production companies includes flying cast, crews and talent for acclaimed documentaries, binge-worthy TV series and highly rated IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes films.
Here’s the Smart Guide to booking a production air charter:
Finalise cast and crew numbers
This might be an obvious one, however you’d be surprised by how many enquiries we receive with an incomplete cast and crew list. Our wealth of experience has taught us that you need to be adaptable for production bookings as the cast and crew can change frequently. For an accurate quote, finalise these numbers as much as possible and don’t worry, name changes can be made up to two hours prior to departure – a UK imposed rule – so there is lots of flexibility. We can also arrange for talent to fly separately from crew in a private jet if required.
Don’t forget about the recce
Before filming commences, there is usually a ‘recce’ and this can usually involve a multitude of destinations as finding the perfect location is important to the whole production, as well as filming schedules. Travelling by private jet can save valuable time as smaller groups can be flown in and out of potential filming destinations quickly. Flying by private jet also presents the opportunity to reach remote locations or several filming locations in one day.
Be realistic with production equipment
Production companies have a lot of equipment and luggage for filming – think costumes, props, make-up, lighting and even emotional support dogs – the list can be endless. Being realistic with the combined weight of the equipment and the passenger’s personal luggage will enable your dedicated Smart account manager to find the most cost effective solution for you. Be sure to provide us with an equipment list, including dimensions and weight of each piece, so you don’t waste valuable budget on chartering an aircraft that’s too big, or not big enough.
Keep on schedule and head to remote locations
Chartering an aircraft allows filming schedules to run on time from the outset. Get to desired destinations, even remote locations outside of commercial airports, in plenty of time to allow for a smooth start to filming. Crews will save time by departing and arriving into private terminals, away from the hustle and bustle of the main terminals. A report by the European Business Aviation Association states that, on average, flying by private charter saves 127 minutes each journey.
Flying by private aircraft charter enables cast and crew to get as close to their final destination as possible – we can even have onward transportation waiting on the tarmac.
Security is key
Productions are always top secret with NDAs in place, so flying by private charter eliminates any unnecessary exposure for talent and crew. The beauty of flying private is that it can be last minute and therefore, more confidential. Secrecy is of the utmost importance. Travelling on your own aircraft, utilising private terminals that are closed to the public, ensures maximum security for the production.
Brand the aircraft
Don’t forget you can ask your account manager to tailor bespoke branding on the exterior of the aircraft, as well as headrest covers inside the aircraft, and onboard menus. This adds a sense of exclusivity and anticipation to all involved in the project.
Bring beloved animals onboard
Filming can mean being away from loved ones for long periods of time but talent can fill the void by bringing their beloved furry friends with them. Arranging a flight with pets on-board is something that we do get asked; as long as your pet’s documents and vaccinations are up to date, we can arrange everything for you. Each country has their own rules and regulations for entering with an animal, all of which can be managed by us.
Working on your next production? Contact us 24/7 to discuss your production’s air charter requirements: sales@smart-aviation.co.uk / +441293 551244
