Private Planes & Customs 

Every international flight involves customs, whether you’re using a commercial airline or a private jet. However, the processes between the two modes of travel are slightly different. 

As a jet charter client, it’s crucial to choose a partner that can handle customs planning efficiently. You must also prepare for customs checks and disclosures.

Understanding Customs Requirements for Private Flights

This chart summarizes the major similarities and differences between custom processes in commercial and private flights:

Category	Private Travel	Commercial travel
Advance Passenger Information	Required via eAPIS, this information is submitted by the operator or pilot at least 60 minutes before departure to or arrival in the U.S.	Information is collected during booking or check-in and is submitted to CBP by the airline.
Landing Rights & Port of Entry	Flights must land at airports designated as ports of entry with CBP facilities, and prior CBP approval is typically required.	Flights can land at major international airports with customs and immigration facilities. Clearance is managed by the airline.
Customs Inspection Process	Inspections are typically conducted on the aircraft or in a private terminal. The process is fast and discreet.	Inspections are conducted in public customs areas, and long lines are common.
Declaration of Goods & Currency	Declaration is required for applicable items. The crew or handling agents often assist.	Passengers fill out declaration forms. While airline staff can assist, customers are typically responsible for this process.
Preclearance Availability	Preclearance is offered at some international airports, enabling customs processing before departure.	Preclearance is available at some foreign airports.
Flexibility in Airport Selection	Private jets can operate from smaller airports with CBP services, allowing more direct routing and access to remote areas.	Airlines can operate from major international airports only, meaning they have fewer routing options and longer ground times.

Advance Passenger Information System 

The Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) contains information on all passengers and crew onboard an international flight that will land or depart from the United States. 

APIS data is due at least 60 minutes before flights arrive or depart. Typically, pilots submit an electronic APIS manifest to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). As a passenger, it’s your duty to ensure this critical step is completed. 

Commercial flights use APIS too, but the data is typically collected when you book or check in for the flight. 

Landing Rights & Permissions 

Before your jet leaves a foreign country, your pilot must get permission to land it on American soil. Typically, that involves contacting the CBP agent at the airport you’ve chosen at your destination. Rules between airports can vary.

For example, private jets landing in Portland, Oregon, need permission at least one business day before the scheduled landing. Their permissions come with a 30-minute window. If your pilot misses that deadline, you’ll need a new permission. 

Commercial flights don’t need to take this detailed step, as they always land in international airports. 

Customs Process Upon Arrival 

Once your jet lands in the United States, your pilot can open the aircraft doors and give you permission to enter a small holding area inside the airport. A CBP officer will meet the aircraft and inspect it. 

Your CBP officer will also ask for documents, such as passports from passengers, medical certificates, and proof of aircraft registration. You must stay in the area until the officer tells you it’s okay for you to leave. 

Customs & Immigration Clearance 

On commercial flights, passengers stand in long lines with their possessions and wait for an inspection. Private jet flights work a little differently. 

Your CBP officer typically checks your documents and immigration status either on the aircraft or in a holding area. Your pilot is responsible for ensuring you have the documents you need. If you do not, your pilot can face penalties like a suspension. 

A fixed base operator (FBO) can further streamline the customs process for private flights by providing a dedicated area and a well-crafted process for passengers. 

Declaration of Goods & Currency 

All passengers must complete forms that itemize the merchandise they’re bringing home, including agricultural products. Teams can use these documents to determine any applicable tariffs. They may also restrict some items (like plants) from entering the country. 

If you travel with more than $10,000, you must report it to the CBP officer. If you don’t report this cash, you may face penalties such as fines or imprisonment.

Using Preclearance & Special Programs 

While most customs processes for private jets are efficient and effective, they can still be time-consuming. Using preclearance or special programs can streamline your entry and save you time. 

U.S. Customs Preclearance Facilities

CBP preclearance facilities are located in 15 airports across the globe. An appointment allows you to move through customs before you board your flight, so you can skip many of the checks when you arrive at your destination. Clearing your flight through this process means you can also land at American airports that don’t have CBP facilities. 

You need an appointment to use the preclearance process. Prepare to bring documents like your passport and declaration forms with you to your appointment. 

Trusted Traveler Programs 

Companies like Global Entry and Mobile Passport Control offer government-approved expedited travel. Enroll, and you can walk through expedited lanes and the airport and streamline your checks. 

The Department of Homeland Security maintains a list of approved programs. To enroll in a program like this, submit an online application. Your company will schedule an in-person interview to talk about you and your typical travel patterns.

You’ll pay a small processing fee (typically less than $150), and your membership will last for 5 years.

Compliance & Best Practices 

Customs processes keep our country safe, and they’re not optional. As a passenger, it’s your responsibility to comply with the rules. 

These tips can help:

• Remember deadlines. APIS manifests are required at least an hour before departure. Don’t let that timeline slip away. There is no wiggle room. 
• Keep track of changes. If you adjust your manifest, purchases, or any other information that you’ve already documented and submitted, you must resubmit those forms. 
• Cooperate fully. Answer questions when asked, and don’t lie about anything. Present all of the documents required. 
• Stay in place. Don’t leave designated areas until your agent tells you it’s safe to do so. 
• Track your documents. Be ready to provide proof of your compliance with the rules. Keep customs-related documents in a password-protected electronic file that you can access from your phone or another connected device.

Take the Stress Out of Flying With Element Aviation 

Element Aviation takes custom processes very seriously. We handle all of the details, so you can just focus on enjoying your trip. 

We handle APIS submissions, coordinate with CBP, and arrange preclearance when available. Our expertise in navigating international regulations ensures a seamless travel experience for you. We handle the details and make it easy. Contact us to get started.