Back in 18-century coffee houses, the words “To Insure Promptitude” were inscribed on the coffee bowls as a hint to patrons. It was eventually abbreviated to “tip,” meaning a gratuity for service.

The word and the practice have survived. Sometimes our private jet rental clients ask us plenty of questions, like whether they should tip their aircrews or what the private jet pilot salary is.

In the spirit of honesty and transparency, we’ll take a look at some of your frequently asked questions around tipping and aircrew salaries.

Should I tip my private jet pilot?

It’s up to you. However, as Joel Thomas, founder of Stratos Jet Charters says, “A tip is a gesture showing gratitude for someone who has not merely done their job but done their job in such a way that their passion shines through. Tips are not expected, but always appreciated.”

So, here are some tips on who to tip and how much.

Ground Services Provider

These are the drivers that get you to and from your aircraft in comfort. When arranged by Stratos, your driver’s tip is already included. No need to tip again. Although, it is nice to give something extra to a driver that gives you additional help with your luggage or finds a faster route to the airport. Some drivers go the extra mile by giving you their contact information to ensure smooth transportation when you’re leaving a meeting. Depending on the length of the drive, a $20 to $50 tip for an exceptional driver would be appropriate.

Line Crew

The Line Crew helps load and unload your luggage from the private jet rental aircraft. They ensure your aircraft is fuelled and that your catering order gets onboard. Some line crew members may shuttle you from the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) to your plane. If you drove your car, they also provide the valet service.  The Line Crew is paid hourly and usually works outside in all kinds of weather. It is very classy to tip $20 per line crew member who assists you.

Cabin Attendant 

Cabin and Flight Attendants have the dual responsibility of safety and hospitality. On a typical flight, they excel at getting your meals & refreshments and ensuring your complete comfort. If someone in your group has physical or mobility issues, the cabin crew will give them the extra attention they may require. Cabin crew are not salaried; they are typically paid a daily flat rate. It is very tasteful to have a hundred dollar bill handy. If you have a larger private jet rental group (more than four) consider a larger tip.  

Pilots 

There is no expectation to tip a pilot, especially if there is a cabin attendant aboard. Pilots are paid a private jet pilot salary, and the larger the aircraft, the more they earn. However, a $50 spot for each pilot, after the first leg of your flight, makes you their fan. They are more likely to ensure you feel comfortable, interact with you and ensure that all of your passengers receive their utmost attention. This is especially true on smaller aircraft. On light, mid-size and super-midsize jets, and especially on turbo-prop private jet rental aircraft, one of the pilots may act as a cabin attendant. Tipping a multi-tasking pilot is a classy move.

If the service providers you come in contact with on a single leg flight were exceptional and deserving of your gratitude, a tip goes a long way to showing your appreciation and making their day.

How much does the pilot of a private jet make? Depending on how many hours they log and which aircraft they pilot, they can make anywhere from $50,000 a year to $300,000 or more.

Who is the highest paid pilot? In terms of private vs. commercial pilots, the private jet pilot salary is roughly the same as a commercial pilot salary. The salary for both range from $50,000 annually to $250,000 or more. It all comes down to how much flight time the pilot works and the size of aircraft they fly.

 

To experience our exceptional service, book your next luxury charter flight by calling Stratos Jet Charters at 888-593-9066.