Despite the complaints from the public about high prices, long lines and invasive searches, commercial air travel is a fairly economical way to get from point A to point B. There are, however, certain time when it makes sense to hire a private plane.

Hiring a private plane will definitely set you back more than flying on a commercial airline, even first class. A chartered plane can easily cost you ten thousand dollars or more. When you consider the convenience, ease of access and level of service, the price seems a little more reasonable. Further, if you are traveling with several others, the cost can be split amongst the group.

Business needs are probably the most common reason for hiring a private plane. Sometimes, multimillion dollar deals hang in the balance and an executive must get to a distant city as soon as possible. With all the delays and hassles in today's commercial air travel, it just might be impossible to get to your destination in a timely manner.

Another example might be an emergency need. Suppose a crucial part breaks and you are forced to shut down your assembly line. Every hour your production line is down can cost the company thousands of dollars or more.

Unfortunately, the part is manufactured in Germany and can't be delivered for 24 hours. Well, if you charter a plane, you'll have the part delivered and installed in only 6 hours. The savings can more than offset the cost of hiring a private plane.

Private planes are not only for business. If you are comfortable and able to afford it, why not surprise your wife on her birthday with a private plane trip to an exotic Caribbean Island. Imagine how happy and surprised she will be! It will be one birthday she'll never forget.

The well to do are most likely to hire a private jet for luxury travel. Unlike the world's richest man, Warren Buffet who still lives in the same modest three bedroom house and never flys first class, most extremely wealthy people like to pamper themselves. It would not be unheard of if a movie star hired a plane to fly across the country to eat lunch at her favorite Beverly Hills restaurant.

Hiring a private plane does have its place. More than one famous golfer has showed up at a tournament in a private plane. Celebrities can get a break from the public by choosing to hire a private jet. If you can afford it, why not indulge?