Many private flyers ask the same question: Can you smoke on a private jet? The simple answer is: sometimes, but not always. Whether you can light up in the air depends on the aircraft, the operator, and safety regulations.
Commercial airlines banned smoking years ago. Private aviation is different. Smoking isn’t automatically forbidden, but policies vary.
Operator policy: Some operators allow smoking, while others ban it to protect the aircraft and future passengers.
Aircraft certification: A jet must have the right safety features and air filtration systems for smoking to be permitted.
Airport or FBO rules: Certain facilities may also have restrictions.
Not all smoking is treated the same way:
Cigarettes are the most commonly allowed if the operator permits smoking.
Cigars are less common because the odor lingers longer in the cabin.
Vaping and e-cigarettes are often restricted too, but some operators are more flexible.
Even though marijuana is legal in some U.S. states, it remains illegal under federal law, which governs aviation. That means passengers cannot smoke or consume cannabis products on private jets, regardless of where the aircraft departs or lands. This restriction applies to all forms of cannabis, including smoking, vaping, and edibles. Attempting to bring marijuana onto a flight can also lead to legal issues since airports and airspace are federally regulated. If you have questions about what is allowed, always check with your operator before flying.
Even when smoking is technically allowed, many operators discourage it. Smoke odors are hard to remove and can negatively affect the next passenger’s experience. Cabin materials, upholstery, and air filters are also expensive to maintain, and smoking can cause lasting damage. In addition, some charter clients specifically request non smoking aircraft, which limits how often a jet that allows smoking can be offered.
If smoking matters to you, the best step is to confirm with your broker or operator before booking, since not all private jets allow it. When planning your trip, request a smoking permitted aircraft in advance to avoid surprises. It’s also important to ask whether a surcharge will apply, as many operators charge additional cleaning fees after flights where smoking is allowed.