Frequently Asked Questions

• What is an Aircraft Charter?

• An aircraft charter is a convenient and cost-effective way to fly. You hire an entire aircraft and flight crew to fly a route chosen by you at times designated by you. We fly directly to where you what to go, when you want to go. Since there are no set schedules you can arrange your air travel around your activities at your chosen destination(s). No worrying about missing your flight when meetings or activities run late, and no waiting to depart when meetings or activities wrap up early.

• Isn't chartering an aircraft expensive?

• No, chartering is not expensive. Depending on the number of people and the routing, an aircraft charter can be less expensive than flying on schedule services. It is always best to call and inquiry about your group’s specific needs and compare cost and convenience. Since charters fly direct to locations you request at times set by you often hotel and car rental costs can be eliminated.

• What kind of services does Airco offer?

• Airco offers safe, convenient, and hassle-free air services. Some examples include business, government and executive services; sports groups (including fly-in fishing, hunting groups, golfing excursions and ski trips); fly-in crew changes and cargo hot shots. When you inquiry about a charter do not hesitate to ask about ground transportation and hotel reservations as well. From the minute you arrive to after you return we are at your service.

• What are the luggage limitations?

• Baggage limitations depend on the aircraft being chartered and the number of people on the flight. When you book an aircraft please ask the dispatcher what limitations apply to that aircraft. Airco does ask that all passengers bring small, soft luggage that is easy to pack. Three small bags pack much easier that one large piece.

• How much advance notice is required for a charter?

• With as little as 90 minutes advanced notice Airco can have an aircraft ready to take-off. Aircraft charters are based on aircraft availability. To ensure availability booking one week in advance is suggested.

• Are last minute bookings more expensive that advance notice flights?

• Last minute bookings do not affect the charter rate. If you book three months in advance or if you book the day before the charter rate remains the same.

• Where does Airco fly to?

• Airco can fly into most airports throughout North America. We require an airstrip to be 3000 feet or longer. Gravel, grass or dirt airstrips have certain limitations but can still be accessible. If you are considering a charter to a remote or less well known airport it is best to call one of our flight dispatchers to discuss your individual needs before making a decision.

• Where does Airco fly from?

• Airco can fly from most airports throughout North America. We are based at the Edmonton City Centre airport but we can provide charter services from the Edmonton International Airport, the Red Deer Airport, the Calgary International Airport etc. It is best to call one of our flight coordinators and discuss your individual needs before making a decision.

• When should I arrive at the airport?

• Fifteen minutes prior to departure is a good guideline for arriving at the airport for a chartered flight. However, since you chartered the aircraft there is no risk of missing your flight! Since you know all the people on the aircraft with you there are no security checks and no line-ups! If you and everyone in your party arrives early, the flight departs early. If you or anyone in your party runs into some unforeseen delay the aircraft will not depart until you, the customer, instructs the flight crew to leave. A courtesy call to our main office line is all we ask of delayed passengers.

• What is a "Hot Shot"?

• A "Hot Shot" is a last minute cargo delivery. If you require a part, package, or any other item to be delivered in a timely manner a Cargo Hot Shot is what you are looking for. An aircraft can be ready to depart in 90 minutes or less. It is best to call one of our flight coordinators and ask how quickly an aircraft can be ready to depart.

• What loads and cargo dimensions are Airco's aircraft capable of carrying?

• Aircraft loads and part dimensions require very specific information. Loads can be adjusted depending on the distance of the charter. Dimensions depend on the weight of the part. With the variety of aircraft we operate Airco can accommodate a wide range of goods. And, Airco is an authorized Dangerous Goods carrier. It is best to call our flight dispatcher and discuss you company's requirements.

• Does Airco have a frequent flyer program?

• Airco does not have a formal frequent flyer program. However, we do accept Visa and American Express with Air Miles and Aeroplan affiliations.