Puerto Rico after the storm is not an abstraction. Hurricanes Maria (September 20, 2017, Cat 4 at landfall) and Fiona (September 18, 2022, Cat 1) both caused complete island-wide power grid failures. Maria’s recovery took roughly 11 months for full electricity restoration; a 2018 Harvard study estimated approximately 2,975 excess deaths in the six months following. Fiona knocked out power for more than 1.4 million customers and, two weeks later, more than 100,000 remained without electricity. Post-storm charter work sits inside that reality.
Airport Reopening Timelines
SJU typically reopens within 24 to 72 hours after a major storm for essential-service and government traffic. General-aviation charter follows once the ramp, FBO, and CBP operations return. BQN in Aguadilla and Ceiba (HUM) can serve as secondary points if SJU capacity is constrained. Your advisor confirms which airports are open for GA charter before quoting the return trip.
Inbound Relief Cargo
Post-storm cargo charter has moved generators, medical supplies, food, and construction materials into the island. We book relief cargo under the same operator vetting standards as commercial freight, on the aircraft that fits the load and the destination. See the air cargo hub for the fleet options.
Return Flights for Residents
Residents who evacuated pre-storm often return in the two weeks following. Charter demand for return legs runs high once SJU reopens for GA traffic; lead time helps. FBO handling coordinated by your operator on arrival.
Contact
For post-storm charter, call +1-888-987-5387 or head to the contact page. Related: evacuation flights and humanitarian relief efforts.