If You Fly On A Private Jet Or Plane, Do You Still Have To Go Through TSA?

We all know airport security is important, but that doesn't make it particularly fun. Going through TSA can be a dreadful experience, with lengthy lines, confusing rules, and intimidating security officers. Plus, unless you're a TSA PreCheck user, you'll usually have to remove your shoes, jacket, and belt for screening — and who really wants to walk barefoot in the airport?

But do these requirements apply to private plane passengers too? If you've ever wondered if celebrities flying private get special treatment or if travelers hopping on small charter flights have the choice to skip airport security, the answer is, well, sort of. First, TSA isn't present at all airports in the U.S., which may come as a shock if you're used to flying through large hubs. In fact, TSA only performs screenings at roughly 440 airports, yet there are several thousand ports across the country. Many of these are local airfields that serve non-commercial planes. If you book a private flight from one of these hubs, you may only encounter a loading ramp on your way to the plane — no security lines or body scanners. While that may sound nice, keep in mind that the cost of flying private and avoiding the TSA checkpoints can be steep.

If, on the other hand, you book a private or non-commercial flight departing from an airport terminal serviced by TSA, you should expect to go through screening checkpoints just like everyone else. Still, there may be some ways to get through airport security faster than the average flier. For example, Los Angeles' LAX, a hub regularly frequented by celebrities, offers a private TSA screening area for VIPs.

There are also special air carriers that offer their own security for semi-private travelers. JSX, a public charter operator, is one example that utilizes TSA-compliant background checks and simple walk-through scanners. Other charter companies and private terminals may have their own rules in place too. Even if TSA officers aren't present for screenings, the contents of your bag may be inspected and your identification may be scanned and verified, for instance.

Note that there are also certain procedures for private fliers crossing international borders. If you leave one country and arrive in another, expect to go through a customs checkpoint. Your port of arrival may also require you to undergo security screening before you enter the destination.