To fly from Hawaii to Los Angeles or Vancouver, you need to use a super-midsize jet or larger because a non-stop flight is essential due to the lack of refueling stops along the route. This means your aircraft must have a range exceeding five hours.
Super-midsize jets typically have a range of six hours or more, making them perfect for trips like Hawaii to LA, which takes about five hours. A Citation X is a great choice as it’s fast and features eight comfortable captain’s chairs.
Given the duration of the flight, you might prefer an aircraft with a flat-floor cabin, such as a Challenger 300, Challenger 350, or Falcon 2000. These jets offer more ease of movement, reducing feelings of claustrophobia. Alternatively, you could choose a larger jet equipped with a flight attendant and a closed cabin for sleeping.
Keep in mind that super-midsize jets are generally the more cost-effective option.
Do you have to pay Federal Excise Tax (FET) on flights to or from Hawaii?
Yes, when chartering a flight to or from Hawaii, Federal Excise Tax (FET) applies, but the cost is not prohibitive. FET is only applicable up to about five miles off the coastline; beyond that, the flight is in international waters, and no tax is applied.
If you’re flying from Hawaii to an international destination, you won’t have to pay FET. For instance, on a flight from Hawaii to Edmonton in Canada, no FET is charged.