Private Jet Business Models: An In-depth Look at the Private Aviation Industry

The demand for air travel has been on a steady incline for decades now. Commercial airlines boarded more than 4.7 billion passengers per year before the pandemic, and at the same time, more than 3 million private flights took to the skies.

While unforeseen circumstances grounded planes and disrupted traditional travel, it made many eager to lean into a more private travel option. If fact, in 2022, private jet travel rose 14 percent in comparison to pre-pandemic travel. And while we may be back to a comfortable level of normalcy, private flights still remain in high demand.

Interested in learning more about private jet business models? Dive into our in-depth guide on the private aviation industry, the Stratos private jet charter business model and why you might be interested in learning how to start an aviation business.

Taking a Closer Look at the Private Aviation Industry

According to the High Flyers Report for 2023, the expected return on global business jet sales was $34.6 billion. The report also detailed that the increase in total business jets, on a global level, is over 31% since 2020. Forecasters predict that the popularity in private jets will continue over the years.

Numbers of Private Jets across the Globe

North America’s private aircraft fleet, which consists of 15,547 jets and 9,584 turboprops, currently eclipses that of other regions by a considerable margin. The United States holds a market share of almost 90 percent in this sector with Mexico coming in second and Canada in third.

To put this into perspective, Europe, which has the second-largest fleet in the world, has fewer than 4,200 registered private aircraft. Asia holds the third largest fleet, and Africa sits in fourth place with fewer than 500 private planes.

These numbers are expected to increase across the globe as the demand for business and charter flights continues to rise.

Most Popular Destinations for Private Flights

One of the perks of flying privately is flying wherever you want, whenever you want. Private jets can take passengers to destinations that simply aren’t available to commercial airlines.

Within the U.S., some of the most popular destinations from a national scale include New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, Washington, Las Vegas and Denver.

Beyond the U.S. border, we see Americans flying to destinations like Punta Cana, Cancun, and Montego Bay for a getaway. Others are traveling across the pond to London or other popular European cities.

These are only a handful of destinations available to private charter customers. If you’re interested in learning where you can and can’t go on a private jet, reach out to our private flight advisor team with questions. Call (888) 337-9343.

Why Do People Like Private Jets?

It’s no secret that the public is taking to the skies more than ever before. Though the pandemic had a massive impact on the travel industry, it’s currently rebounding at an unprecedented rate, especially in the private aviation industry.

Here’s why:

• Customized experiences – At Stratos, we believe every charter flight we book is an opportunity for us to expand on our high-touch customer service experience. From door-to-door transportation services to recommending the most appropriate aircraft for your trip, every detail is customized to the client’s travel preferences and requirements.
• Flexibility – Private jet charters give clients the flexibility they need when traveling. You pick the time, the place, and the aircraft. Your private jet provider simply makes it happen.
• Privacy – At 30,000 feet, private jet travelers can kick up their feet, take a nap, enjoy inflight entertainment, or get caught up on emails. There are no other passengers—except the ones invited—to limit legroom or listen in on personal calls. When you book a charter, the entire aircraft is at your disposal.
• Safety – The majority of private jet providers offer some of the safest aircraft in the skies and adhere to strict safety procedures and protocols. When you book with Stratos, you can rest assured that your safety is of the utmost importance, and every effort will be made to ensure a safe charter experience.
• Convenience – When you fly in a private aircraft, you won’t need to join lengthy line-ups found at various points throughout the airport. You can simply arrive before your flight, check in at the front desk, and head to your waiting aircraft. It’s simple, straightforward flying every time.
• Fewer delays – With private flights, there’s less risk of problematic delays that can affect your itinerary. Your private flight advisor will do everything possible to mitigate delays caused by weather or mechanical issues, so you can get where you need to be as efficiently as possible.
• Last-minute bookings – Finding a last-minute commercial flight for unexpected travel can be challenging. However, private jet providers can often accommodate spur-of-the-moment travel needs. Some charter providers can even dispatch an aircraft within just a few hours.
• Catering to special needs – For flyers that require a little extra care and attention, private jet providers are adept at arranging charter flights that cater to specific requirements. From booking an aircraft equipped with wheelchair access to accommodating an oxygen tank on board, private jets can make your next flying experience your best one yet.
• Pet-friendly flying – Sometimes leaving a pet at home isn’t an option. Pet owners that travel with their furry companions will find flying privately a much better experience than booking a seat on a commercial airliner. Instead of tucking your pet away under your seat or in the cargo hold, your pet can enjoy moving around the cabin at their leisure or cuddling up on the couch with you in flight.

These are just a few of the reasons why you might choose private jet travel over commercial flights. Flying privately provides travelers with a heightened travel experience that just isn’t available with commercial airlines.

Who Uses Private Jets

From CEOs of Fortune 500 companies to business teams on a corporate retreat, private jets are used by individuals and businesses across industries.

According to the National Business Association, only three percent of business aircraft are flown by Fortune 500 companies, with the remaining 97 percent spread between charities, universities, government agencies, and businesses of all sizes.

Individuals who fly private typically have seven-figure household incomes and a minimum net worth of around $25 million.

How Does the Private Aviation Industry Work?

The private aviation industry offers customized travel options to clients who want and need them. When an individual needs to fly themselves, their loved ones, or other items from one place to another, they can reach out to a private jet provider and request an aircraft.

At Stratos, a private flight advisor will work with potential travelers to understand the mission, analyze the available aircraft, and recommend the best jet for the journey.

From there, our Trip Support team will focus solely on making sure the flight is properly coordinated and organized. Our well-established process will ensure passenger safety, catch and eliminate errors that may affect itineraries, and provide customers with a high-touch customer experience.

Where Do Private Aviation Companies Get Their Aircraft?

Private aviation companies have two main ways of accessing aircraft to fly for charters: buying or leasing a fleet of aircraft and providing aircraft management services to private jet owners. Here’s how each model works and the impact on the jet charter customer.

Private Jet Providers with Owned or Leased Fleets

These private aviation companies own several aircraft that they use to arrange charters for their clients.

While this may sound like an appealing option, many of these companies have become notorious for offering aircraft that fulfill their own financial needs rather than recommending the best aircraft for the trip.

This reputation stems from the company’s financial commitment to each aircraft in its fleet. Their growth is directly tied to their ability to finance and acquire new aircraft.

As a result, these aircraft tend to live in the air. And, with such a focus on making a return on the investment and little time or budget for interior maintenance, their heavy use shows. While these planes can offer lower rates as part of a floating fleet, which we will discuss later on, they lack the careful attention to comfort and cleanliness found in private aircraft flown for charter.

Before you charter a jet, it’s important to investigate your provider to ensure they prioritize the safety of you and your fellow passengers. Details like understanding their maintenance schedule, wholesale aircraft insurance status, and how they do their due diligence to get you on the best plane are essential before booking.

Managing Aircraft for Private Aircraft Owners

Aircraft maintenance is no small feat. To help keep their aircraft in top-notch condition and provide a revenue stream to offset the costs of owning a private jet, many full and fractional owners turn to aircraft management companies for support.

Aircraft management companies maintain the planes on behalf of the owners and make sure they meet the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) stringent requirements, which we’ll dive into later. Without an aircraft management company, private jet owners are forced to undertake considerable effort and expense or face significant fines, legal action, and potential loss of their aircraft should they fail to meet FAA standards.

By working with managers, private jet owners also unlock an invaluable revenue source by allowing the aircraft management company to use their jet for charters. This allows the owner to fly their aircraft at a more cost-effective rate, but it isn’t without its challenges. If the aircraft owner needs to travel and their jet is already booked, the aircraft management company needs to either shift the charter to another jet or find the owner a substitute aircraft. This is part of the reason many aircraft management companies own at least one jet of their own.

With such a narrow focus on managing aircraft and meeting the needs of the aircraft owner, most aircraft management companies aren’t set up to work directly with customers. That’s where brokers like Stratos come into the picture.

Examining the Relationship Between Brokers and Air Carriers

While aircraft management companies drive revenue to help owners cover the costs of owning an aircraft, brokers empower this revenue stream by connecting travelers to suitable jets. This symbiotic relationship is essential to the aircraft management company, the broker, the aircraft’s owner, and the customer.

The more organized the broker, the higher priority they will receive. Quality brokers utilize their strong relationships with carriers to provide added value to charter customers.

A reputable broker will dive into the aircraft maintenance history, insurance coverage, and flight crew experience to make sure they recommend and book the safest aircraft available. An even better broker will leverage their industry relationships to benefit their clients and provide some of the best available charter rates on the most reliable and safe aircraft. And the best brokers advocate for their clients when things don’t go as planned.

At Stratos, your travel needs and well-being are our top priorities. For nearly two decades, we’ve made it our mission to provide a high-quality charter experience with every booking we make.

A Breakdown of FAA Regulations

The FAA regulates all private aircraft. Aircraft owners who use their planes solely for personal flights abide by FAA Part 91, which addresses operational training, maintenance, and many other safety elements.

However, when you charter a private jet, the aircraft is subject to the much stricter Part 135 regulations. This is a certificate that deems an aircraft safe and acceptable for private charters. These rules apply to not only the aircraft but also the flight crews.

Some of the points covered are aircraft instrumentation, proving and validation testing, passenger capacity, insurance coverage, and the ability to withstand certain weather and environmental conditions. The regulations also cover hazardous materials and the types of devices and equipment allowed on private planes during charter flights.

This portion of the FAA’s Code of Regulations also encompasses pilot and flight crew training, maximum consecutive flight hours, and minimum rest requirements between flights, among other factors. According to the FAA, a pilot must have a minimum of 1,200 hours of flight training to become a certified charter pilot and all flight crew members must be trained in safety and service protocols.

These points and others falling under Part 135 regulations are designed to ensure private fliers are as safe as possible while in the air and in the hands of flight crews. Many private charter flight companies hold aircraft and crew members to standards beyond those set forth by the FAA so their passengers can fly with peace of mind and in comfort and luxury

Exploring Private Aviation Business Models

There are a few different business models that drive the private aviation industry. All of them have distinct features that set them apart from the rest, with pros and cons for both customers and business owners.

On-demand (Pay-per-flight) Business Models

On-demand business models are a popular option for clients that want the convenience of flying when they want without the commitment of membership or ownership.

With on-demand charters, fliers can enjoy a truly customized private flight. They have the opportunity to choose which planes they prefer with help from their charter providers. When selecting the most appropriate aircraft, the client will need to share:

• The number of people traveling
• The departure location and destination
• Preferred travel dates and times
• Aircraft preferences, and more

Once the trip details have been finalized, the client will only be required to pay the charter invoice. There are no membership fees or long-term commitments to consider.

Advantages of On-demand Charter Flights

On-demand charter flights offer several advantages for private jet travelers, including:

• Last-minute solutions – Not all trips can be planned months or even weeks in advance. With on-demand charter flights, consumers are often able to book last-minute flights for unexpected or emergency travel needs as long as there are aircraft available.
• Best rates – On-demand charter rates are generally lower than guaranteed rates found in membership and jet card programs.
• No strings attached – With the on-demand jet charter model, clients aren’t expected to pay an upfront deposit or make a long-term commitment of any kind. You simply book your charter flight, pay the invoice, and enjoy your tip.
• No blackout dates – On-demand private fliers are free to travel whenever they want. There is no such thing as blackout dates in the world of on-demand charters.
  Endless aircraft options – With on-demand charters, travelers are free to select the aircraft and operator of their choice and have complete control over the trip itinerary.
• Versatility – Being able to access the most suitable aircraft for your trip is a huge benefit. At Stratos, we understand no two trips are the same. If you’re planning a short trip, a light jet is a cost-efficient option. However, if your family is in tow and you need plenty of space and different ways of staying entertained, a heavy jet might be your best option. With an on-demand charter, you can choose the aircraft that best aligns with each trip.
• Fewer Restrictions – With an on-demand charter, you’re free to fly any time on the aircraft of your choice to any destination in the world. There are no black-out dates to adhere to or aircraft limitations to worry about.
• No membership fees – While other business models require lofty fees for memberships and additional charges, the value of only having to pay for services when they’re needed is a big deciding factor for many on-demand fliers.

What Are the Drawbacks of On-demand Jet Charters?

On-demand is the most cost-effective way to charter a private jet, but it’s not the right option for everyone.

The main downside to on-demand jet charters, particularly with one-way flights, is the lack of flexibility to cancel the flight or change dates. During peak travel seasons, especially, a bit of planning may be required to secure your desired aircraft and travel times. And once the aircraft is booked, there is limited ability to make changes to the routing. Although, a good broker will provide you with insights into what can be accommodated.

It’s also important to consider that, with on-demand charters, you book a specific aircraft for your journey. If something happens and your aircraft can no longer complete the flight, you’re left to find a new charter at whatever rates are available at that moment. Factor in additional de-icing, pet fees, catering costs, as well as fluctuating rates, and the costs of on-demand jet charters can add up quickly.

With so many aircraft and on-demand flight providers available to the public, it can be tricky to choose the best one. It’s important to research each company and even reach out and ask questions. Sometimes the best provider isn’t the cheapest, it’s the one that values your safety and an exceptional client experience above all else.

Who Benefits Most from On-demand Charters?

Travelers who want to create their own flying experience love the control that comes with on-demand charters. When booking an on-demand charter, the flier is in full control of selecting their aircraft and operator. Whether you want to fly in comfort and style on Dassault’s impressive 3 engine Falcon 7X or in the crowd-favorite Gulfstream GIV-SP. Want to experience Bombardier’s premier private heavy jet, the Global 6000, the choice is yours when flying on-demand.

This style of charter is best for fliers who have locked in their itinerary and won’t need to cancel or change their travel dates. However, on-demand is also perfect for travelers with flexibility in departure dates as the variety of departure times and aircraft options offer the best possible rates.

How Much Does It Cost to Fly Private Per Hour?

It typically costs between $2,000 and $18,000 per hour to charter a private jet. Smaller aircraft typically see more affordable hourly rates, but the type of aircraft, availability of your preferred aircraft, and the location of the aircraft all impact the cost.

What are the leading On-demand Private Aviation Companies?

Air Charter Service

Air Charter Service is an on-demand private aviation company with a global reach. After starting in the founder’s basement in 1990, Air Charter Service has grown its on-demand charters and now boasts nearly 30 offices around the world—including offices in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Kazakhstan, Singapore, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, the United States and across continental Europe and the United Kingdom.

evoJets

Founded in 2006 in Aspen, Colorado, evoJets provides on-demand and cargo charters and advises people interested in purchasing their own private jets.

Paramount Business Jets

Paramount Business Jets, founded in 2005, also offers on-demand charters from its portfolio of more than 4,000 jets and was one of the first brokers to offer a jet card membership.

Stratos Jet Charters

Stratos Jet Charters is another leading private jet provider that offers on-demand charter flights. For nearly two decades, we have been delivering consistently outstanding on-demand jet charter services across the United States and around the world. Since we don’t own or operate aircraft of our own, we’re free to recommend the best aircraft for your trip.

As an ARGUS-certified broker, our unmatched safety standards, experienced team members, investment in technology, and our commitment to exceptional service have made us the jet charter broker of choice for some of the most discerning travelers.

Purchasing a Charter Flight Through a Broker vs. an Operator

Going directly to an air carrier for a charter flight may seem like the best way to get a deal. However, it can actually be the opposite.

The Cons of Booking Directly with an Air Carrier

Aircraft operators have a limited number of aircraft in their fleet, and as their schedule quickly fills in, your trip may not be accommodated on the most cost-effective aircraft when you are ready to book. This could leave you booking an aircraft that is too big or too small for your travel needs or being forced to fly at a schedule other than what you really want.

Whether the operator owns a fleet of aircraft or they’re in charge of managing privately-owned planes, air carriers also have significant financial obligations that factor into each charter.

Each aircraft has its own profits and losses the operator needs to cover. If the carrier owns and operates its own fleet, they’ve invested anywhere from $2 million for each base-model turboprop plane to as much as $70 million per high-end luxury jet. Plus, there are also the added costs of aircraft maintenance, insurance, storage in a hangar, and hiring, training, and retaining flight crews. These are all necessary business costs, but as a result, carriers are incentivized to make decisions that prioritize the business’s financial health and their relationships with aircraft owners over the needs of the customer.

For you as the flier, that means you may be afforded less control over your flight when you book directly with an air carrier at the expense of your safety. Most clients have no means of auditing the air carrier or the crew. You’re also unable to see if the aircraft insurance is adequate or even current.

Booking directly with an air carrier can also be costly, as they may need to position the plane back to base or its next point of departure before your return trip. The considerable repositioning costs could then be passed on in the amount of the unoccupied flight time that is required to accommodate your flight.

Most aircraft operators aren’t set up to deliver a white-glove customer experience. Their talents lie in operational excellence, not in providing you with the support you need. It’s unlikely they have made the necessary investment in personnel and infrastructure to deliver the high-touch customer experience you expect.

When you book with a trusted broker, you can sidestep these concerns and ensure you always charter the right aircraft for the mission.

What is a Jet Charter Broker?

Jet charter brokers work on your behalf to negotiate with aircraft operators to arrange a private jet for your upcoming trip. When you charter a private jet through a broker, they’re dedicated to giving you the best possible private aviation experience. Since the brokers don’t own their fleet, they can provide access to and recommend the most appropriate aircraft instead of recommendations based on meeting behind-the-scenes quotas. And because brokers are not limited to just one fleet, you get access to a wide range of private jets even when there is limited availability.

The Benefits of Booking with a Charter Broker

A reputable charter broker gives you access to multiple carriers so you can book the right aircraft at the best available price.

Now that you’re equipped with the best aircraft for your journey, your broker expands your margin of safety by ensuring an experienced crew is in the cockpit, that there is adequate insurance for your needs, and that the carrier is free of operational safety concerns such as a history of incidents or policy violations.

Sometimes, even with the right plane and a great broker, you will need to make flight changes. Working with a quality broker also allows you to leverage the strength of their industry relationships when things don’t go as planned.

At their core, reputable charter brokers are responsible for coordinating and organizing the safest flight possible. Well-established brokers have processes in place to eliminate transcription errors and issues before they become your concern. All you have to do is get ready for your safe and comfortable charter.

Should I Use a Jet Charter Broker?

Jet charter brokers remove the stress associated with making travel plans and provide you with a safe, reliable way to charter a private aircraft. A good broker works with your best interest in mind to ensure you charter a safe aircraft with a good reputation and reliable crew from a reputable air carrier. All you need to do is sit back and get ready to board your aircraft.

How Do Charter Brokers Get Paid?

Brokers get paid in commission for finding suitable aircraft for your upcoming mission and acting as the liaison between you and the air carrier.

How Can I Tell If I’m Working with a Reputable Charter Broker?

A reputable charter broker will have made a noticeable investment in both personnel and technological infrastructure. These investments are necessary for providing the ultimate client experience and will allow the company to establish a division of labor that results in a consistent and reliable flying experience.

The personnel at a quality charter brokerage will be professional and knowledgeable and can anticipate the needs of any travel requirement to ensure a seamless trip.

A quality charter broker will have highly defined processes supported by their booking platform. These processes will be noticeable to a customer and meaningful in that they will assure a well-planned flight resulting in a consistent, high-quality travel experience.

Beyond merely booking and planning your flight, a high-quality charter broker will have clearly defined safety requirements that extend to the air carrier. Adherence to well-defined safety requirements should be evident throughout the booking and planning phases of your charter flight. Most brokerages will say they have high standards, but few can actually demonstrate them.

At Stratos, we provide transparency into our safety program while your flight is being organized. Before presenting an aircraft for you to consider, we conduct regular audits of the carrier’s operational history through ARGUS, the world leader in aviation safety. Once the carrier has been confirmed and the flight has been booked, we conduct another audit that looks at the aircraft, crew, and insurance. These processes have earned us the approval of ARGUS as an ARGUS-certified charter broker. The ARGUS-certified broker standard is the seal of excellence for a charter broker, and we wear it with pride while demonstrating our commitment to safety excellence.

In addition to requiring your broker to be ARGUS-certified, you should also seek out a broker that carries their own non-owned aircraft liability insurance. This policy is in addition to the air carrier’s insurance and is exclusive to the passengers listed on the manifest. Stratos carries an additional $10 million of non-owned liability insurance. This benefit is one that is best to have and not need should things not go as planned.

Is My Charter Broker Concerned with Protecting the Environment?

Having a meaningful emissions mitigation plan in place is costly to a charter broker, and those willing to bear the cost are generally the most well-organized and thoughtful companies in the industry. This is something to consider when selecting a private jet charter broker.

At Stratos Jets, we’ve been offsetting carbon emissions since 2007 through a partnership with TerraPass. Through this partnership, you can ask your private flight advisor to offset your jet. They’ll provide you with a carbon-neutral report that details your trip’s potential emissions and the number of carbon credits you need to offset your flight. On average, this increases the total cost of the trip by about one percent and provides TerraPass with funding to invest in carbon-offsetting initiatives such as forestry, renewable energy, and landfill gas capture.

Private Jet Membership

Another option to consider is the private jet membership business model. There are two main types of private jet charter memberships available: jet cards and jet membership programs.

With a jet card, you pre-purchase a limited number of hours per aircraft category. These are less flexible yet slightly more affordable than jet memberships if you only need to fly three or four times per year. We will discuss jet cards in depth later in this article.

How Do Private Jet Memberships Work?

The jet membership model sees travelers purchase memberships and pay dues. In exchange, members take advantage of locked-in rates for their private jet charter flights. Memberships are typically available in six-month and one-year terms.

Benefits of Private Flight Memberships for Flyers

Private flight memberships provide plenty of benefits for members. Those who purchase memberships enjoy:

• A large selection of aircraft – Unlock access to multiple aircraft classes and enjoy fixed rates that allow you to always book the right size jet for every flight.
• Guaranteed aircraft availability – Though extenuating circumstances can arise, private flight members enjoy the certainty of knowing flights will typically be available when they need them.
• No surprise costs – With a membership, clients can lock-in pricing at fixed rates for the term of their membership with no costly additional fees.
• Priority Access – In most cases, members receive priority status. They have first claim on private jets during peak seasons of demand and often receive an array of perks and exclusive offers that aren’t available to on-demand travelers.

Are Private Jet Memberships Worth It?

Cost can be an added advantage with private flight memberships. For those who fly more than 25 hours a year, purchasing a membership could easily be a more cost-effective option than paying per flight. While some membership initial investments are loftier than others, the locked-in rates are invaluable.

How Much Do Private Jet Charter Memberships Cost?

Through private jet membership programs, you pay an initial fee to become a member and unlock fixed rates on multiple aircraft categories. While it does cost slightly more per hour than a jet card, this initial investment plus pay-as-you-go model is great for frequent flyers due to the unlimited flight hours and consistent pricing it provides.

Private jet charter membership costs vary greatly from one company to the next. At Stratos, our two-tiered membership program allows you to lock in certainty and maintain flexibility. With our six-month Soar membership, you lock in rates for five aircraft classes for an initial $8,500 investment while our Soar Higher membership locks in rates for 12 months for $14,500.

What Are the Disadvantages of Private Flight Memberships for Fliers?

While the perks of private jet charter memberships can be advantageous for customers, the upfront investment could be undesirable for some, especially those who don’t fly frequently enough to warrant the cost of membership. For occasional private jet charter needs, pay-per-flight solutions can be the better option.

For businesses and individuals requiring more private flights than the average traveler, purchasing a jet or exploring other options may be a better solution.

Some memberships also limit the number of flights or flight hours allowed in a certain time period. It’s also important to be wary of companies with more memberships than their fleets can accommodate.

Advantages of Membership Plans for Businesses

Whether you need to fly salespeople across the country or send your leadership team on transatlantic missions, businesses that spend a significant amount of time and money on private, on-demand jet charter flights can make their charters more reliable and cost-effective with a private jet membership. Businesses with private jet memberships enjoy:

• Predictable spending – Lock in your jet charter rates for the year and save on costly repositioning, fuel surcharge, de-icing, hangar rentals, and pet fees so your accounts payable team always knows how much your flight will cost.
• Reliability – Sometimes, even the most well-maintained aircraft sees mechanical delays. Private jet memberships provide guaranteed recovery so you can get in the air without having to cancel your charter or wait for aircraft maintenance.
• Flexibility – Whether you canceled an out-of-state meeting or you no longer need the charter you reserved for the weekend, plans change constantly when you run a business. Private jet memberships empower you to make changes to your scheduled flights without incurring costly penalties.
• Aircraft selection – With private jet memberships, you’re always in control of the aircraft category for every flight so you can ensure your team gets the best and most cost-effective jet for the job.

Disadvantages of Jet Membership Subscriptions for Businesses

Many perks come with private jet memberships, but they won’t be right for every business. Some of the disadvantages to consider before purchasing a private jet membership for your business include:

• Cost – When factoring in the initial investment, the fixed rates of a membership program will only benefit your business if you fly often. Businesses that charter a private jet fewer than four or five times per year will likely save money by sticking to on-demand charters.
• Blackout dates – Memberships have blackout dates around the holidays—typically one week surrounding Thanksgiving and from mid-December until early January—where the fixed rates and other member benefits do not apply.

Key Players in the Private Aviation Membership Arena

There are quite a few private jet charter companies that operate on a membership basis.

Magellan

Magellan offers memberships tailored to the needs of both businesses and individuals. Members can choose their packages based on how many hours they expect to fly. They also allow clients a certain amount of customization with their memberships.

Sentient Jet

Sentient Jet offers a two-tiered jet card-based membership program. The base tier, SJ25, includes a base 25-hour price and hourly rate for light aircraft, while SJ25+ has the same offerings at a higher price point for super-mid and large cabin jets.

Stratos Jets

In response to soaring demand for private jet charters, Stratos launched a two-tiered membership program to keep clients in the skies. Soar and Soar Higher members can lock in private jet pricing for up to 12 months in a volatile marketplace. The 12-month membership requires an investment of $14,500 while the 6-month membership only requires an initial investment of $8,500.

VistaJet & XO

Both VistaJet and its subsidiary XO offer memberships. Through XO, clients can charter private flights or purchase seats on shared flights with this company. Memberships cost approximately $1,000 per year with an initial fee of $100,000. VistaJet reportedly uses entirely its own fleet for charters.

Wheels Up

Wheels Up has access to a fleet of more than 1,500 aircraft of various sizes, types, and manufacturers. While Wheels Up owns some of the aircraft in its fleet, it also works with private owners, management companies, and others to offer customers more charter options.

Who Is a Prime Candidate for Private Flight Memberships?

Private charter flight memberships are recommended for businesses and individuals who fly more than four or five trips a year. Those who rarely require charter flights likely wouldn’t be able to justify the cost of a membership.

What is a Jet Card?

While memberships lock in rates for a set period with unlimited hours in the air, jet cards lock in hourly rates for a predetermined number of flight hours. Cardholders typically secure rates for either a specific airplane or an aircraft class for 25 hours in the air.

Like memberships, jet cards help private flyers avoid the fluctuating costs of on-demand charters. This is an increasingly popular option among private jet clients, but there are restrictions to be aware of before considering a jet card.

How Much Does a 25 Hour Jet Card Cost?

Costs for prepaid flight time vary by company. In many instances, flight time rates are determined by the types of aircraft clients choose. For example, customers can expect to pay between $150,000 to $200,000 for 25 hours of flight time on a light jet.

Mid-size jets may cost $200,000 or so for the same amount of time. For heavy jets, the cost could range from $300,000 to $400,000 for 25 hours. Keep in mind, these are general figures. Different rates can apply for different makes and models of aircraft. Some companies also impose additional fees for certain holidays, peak travel times, and other factors.

What Benefits Can Clients Expect from Jet Cards?

Jet cards offer certain advantages for those who choose this route. Since many companies promise fixed rates, those who purchase flight time in advance don’t have to deal with unexpected price hikes. Even jet charter companies that charge dynamic rates based on market prices tend to give cardholders discounts.

• Flexible cancellations & changes – When something comes up and a client needs to cancel a booked flight, a jet card program can protect that client from paying cancellation fees. Cardholders are also given the flexibility to change the departure times and destinations up until the cancellation period begins.
• Fixed rates – Jet cards can help keep unpleasant surprises at bay as well. With fixed pricing, there’s no guesswork involved in determining the cost of a private flight. At the same time, as long as the private jet charter company is upfront with its additional charges, clients know which extra costs to expect when they fly.
• Potential extra perks – Jet cardholders often have access to amenities that aren’t available to non-members, like no pet cleaning or deicing fees and complimentary inflight catering.
• Guaranteed availability – Jet cardholders are usually given a guarantee for aircraft availability. This means they can fly whenever the need arises without having to worry about securing an aircraft well in advance. Cardholders are usually able to book private jets far in advance as well.

Downfalls of Purchasing a Jet Card

Several downfalls can also arise with jet cards. A few years ago, one provider went bankrupt taking nearly $50 million in unused jet card deposits with it. This is an extreme example, of course, but one to consider when entering into a jet card program. Other disadvantages include:

• Possible rate discrepancies – Many people purchase jet cards under the assumption that they’ll receive lower private flight rates than they would with other options. Oftentimes, however, the fixed rate is 5 to 10 percent higher than on-demand charter rates.
• Restrictions – With some jet card programs, clients aren’t in control of aircraft or operator selection. Cardholders may not be able to upgrade to a larger jet if the need arises either. At the same time, some companies only offer locked-in rates for specific locations. Destinations that fall outside those areas can cost more.
• Blackout dates – Jet cardholders are also limited to flying outside of blackout dates, like peak travel dates and major holidays. If they can fly during those times, peak travel rates will likely apply.
• Expiration Dates – Some prepaid jet cards are subject to expiration dates, too. For example, if you’ve purchased 200 hours of flight time and don’t use it before the expiry date, you may lose your remaining deposit.

Are Jet Cards Worth It?

The jet card programs are best for those who fly the same route frequently and stick to the same size aircraft each time. It’s important to understand all the possible underlying charges and restrictions that might be in place before entering into a contract.

Frontrunners in the Jet Card Business Model

JetLinx

Founded in 1999, JetLinx is known for its jet card programs though the company also offers aircraft management and fractional ownership options. They offer city-specific services for cardholders as well as dedicated concierge teams. According to JetLinx, they also limit the number of cardholders for each area they serve to better focus on clients’ needs.

Like other companies following the jet card business model, JetLinx affords its cardholders fixed hourly rates for private flights, reduced empty-leg flight rates, and access to private terminals. Clients are also granted an array of benefits, and the company boasts guaranteed jet availability.

Jets.com

Jets.com offers a 25-hour jet card with fixed rates on four different aircraft categories: light jet, midsize jet, super-midsize jet, and heavy jet. The jet card also provides cardholders with no hidden costs, guaranteed aircraft availability, and personalized service.

Magellan Jets

Magellan Jets offers a build-your-jet-card experience, allowing jet cardholders to create a personalized program that matches their unique needs. Advertised perks include: 48-hour scheduling notice, long-leg and round-trip discounts, fixed rates for 18 months, discounts on fuel, and additional amenities included with a 50+ hour purchase.

Sentient Jet

With two different jet card options, Sentient Jet boasts aircraft choice, fixed rates, a seamless booking experience, and flight hours that never expire. The SJ25 jet card includes 25 hours of flight time on light jets, while the SJ25+ offers 25 hours of flight time on midsize, super-midsize, and large cabin jets.

What is the Difference Between a Jet Card and a Membership?

A jet card program is limited to a set number of hours and requires large pre-payment for a certain number of flight hours. This business model is typically limited to a specific aircraft category, like 25 hours in a super-midsize jet for example.

Private jet memberships offer passengers an unlimited number of flight hours, and they require a membership fee to activate the guarantees. That fee is not applied to flight time. Once you’ve secured the membership, you simply pay as you go. Members also enjoy guarantees for any category size providing flexibility in aircraft selection based on the requirements of the flight.

The big difference between the two models is the number of hours available in a program. The membership is ideal for those who want greater flexibility in choosing their preferred aircraft cabin size and who fly 25 hours or more per year. The membership also benefits those who travel many different routes each year, allowing members to choose the right size aircraft for their flight.

Fractional Ownership Business Models

Another option available to private fliers is the fractional ownership of private jets. Potential fliers purchase shares of a specific jet, and in exchange, they’re able to use that aircraft for specified amounts of time.

Fractional ownership ranges from 1/16 to 1/2 of the aircraft. Per FAA regulations, the average annual operational time of a private jet is about 800 hours. Therefore, purchasing a 1/2 share of an aircraft would grant a fractional owner around 400 hours of flight time per year, while a 1/16 share would amount to just 50 hours of flight time.

Some fractional ownership models also allow customers to purchase shares of an entire fleet, which reduces scheduling conflicts and improves aircraft availability.

Is Fractional Ownership a Good Investment?

One of the most obvious benefits of fractional ownership is the cost. For some, purchasing a private aircraft isn’t possible, but purchasing 1/16 or 1/8 of a plane could be. That, in turn, gives rise to several additional advantages.

What are the principal benefits of fractional aircraft ownership?

• Reduced operating costs – The purchase price of a private jet isn’t the only cost to consider. Fuel, maintenance, and other expenses arise as well. Owning part of an aircraft also means sharing expenses with other fractional owners, greatly reducing the costs of ownership and operation for each partial owner.
• Maintenance and compliance – In many cases, fractional ownership entails hiring an aircraft management company. This helps ensure all owners receive their fair share of flight time. It also guarantees the aircraft remains in compliance with the FAA’s regulations. An aircraft management company can also schedule routine maintenance to keep the jet operating at peak performance, as well as arrange cleaning between use so all owners can enjoy a comfortable flying experience.
• Tailored prices – Investors can purchase shares according to their budget and needs. This level of control is a much better option than outright ownership for many individuals and businesses who routinely require private charter flights.
• Tax incentives – Fractional jet ownership can also bring about certain tax incentives. For one, sales taxes don’t fall solely on the shoulders of one person or company. They’re divided among all the owners of the aircraft. Secondly, depreciation can be written off as a deduction to offset the cost of ownership even further.

The Downside to Fractional Ownership

Not all aspects of fractional jet ownership are advantageous. After all, the more people there are invested in a jet, the more it’s likely to be used. That comes with certain drawbacks.

• Aircraft limitations – Purchasing a portion of an aircraft usually means owners are restricted to the use of that type of jet, which may not always meet the passenger capacity or distance requirements. In such a case, a fractional owner may still need to venture beyond the shared aircraft and make use of additional charter flight options. Holding interest in a private jet but being unable to use it could be disappointing and problematic.
• Excessive wear and tear – When an aircraft is heavily used, this can create wear and tear. While maintenance and repair needs will be taken care of by the management company, servicing can be expensive. Although those costs are divided among owners, they can still add up over time.
• Restricted aircraft access – When sharing flight time with other fractional owners, it can be hard to access the aircraft when it’s needed. If one owner has already booked the aircraft, the other may be forced to change plans or cancel them entirely.
• Unexpected additional fees – If a fractional owner needs to reposition the aircraft after another owner has used it, they may be on the hook for repositioning fees.

Who Should Consider Fractional Ownership?

Fractional ownership is ideal for those that fly more than 50 hours a year and want to share the cost of aircraft ownership.

What is the Best Fractional Ownership Program?

Several companies offer fractional private jet ownership, including some of the ones we’ve already mentioned under other business models. Each company has specific protocols in place to protect and benefit its shareholders.

Airshare

One of the pioneers in fractional private jet ownership is Airshare. This company allows clients to either purchase or lease shares in aircraft starting at 20 days. Their pricing includes the cost of the fractional share, aircraft management fees, and hourly flight rates.

Unlike many companies in this sector, Airshare claims to place no limitations on the number of hours clients are allowed to fly regardless of the shares they purchase. Fractional owners are also allowed the use of aircraft other than the types they buy into if needed. Of course, certain restrictions apply.

Flexjet

Flexjet allows frequent flyers to purchase a share in a specific Flexjet aircraft, with a guarantee that if an owner spends more than 5 percent of their time in an aircraft not owned by Flexjet, they’ll be reimbursed those hours. Depending on the ownership level, owners may be able to take advantage of different aircraft.

NetJets

NetJets offers fractional ownership and management services and guarantees owners access to more than 800 state-of-the-art aircraft. Their program also states there are no additional or hidden fees, creating a more stable cost structure.

Nicholas Air

Nicholas Air’s fractional ownership program, available in five-year terms, gives members a variety of exclusive benefits. Clients pay one-time acquisition fees in addition to monthly aircraft management fees and hourly costs.

Repositioning fees are waived for shared owners, and aircraft availability is guaranteed for 355 days per year, the company says.

Plane Sense

Since 1996, Plane Sense has been providing fractional ownership services to private flyers all over the world. The fractional ownership program applies to Pilatus PC-12 or PC-24 jets. Owners are guaranteed aircraft availability, no blackout dates, customized share sizes, and no hidden or repositioning fees.

Whole Aircraft Ownership

Whole ownership is another solution in the private aviation industry. While it’s possible to purchase an aircraft directly from a manufacturer or with the help of a broker, some private aviation businesses extend purchase options to clients.

What are the Benefits of Owning a Plane

As most people might imagine, whole ownership comes with an array of benefits for those who fly frequently and enjoy the enhanced experiences that come with private flights. Owners are free to use their own aircraft as they see fit.

• Possible cost savings – Owning an aircraft managed by a private jet charter company could lead to significant savings. These businesses have extensive networks that grant them discounts on fuel purchases, insurance, and hangar expenses. They often pass those savings along to their clients who wholly own an aircraft they manage.
• Tax benefits – If your aircraft is used for business purposes, it can be expensed or written off in the first year of use. If the aircraft is used for both business and leisure, the rules change slightly, but the business use can be expensed. Operating costs like fuel expenses and maintenance costs can be deducted as well.
• Familiar faces and aircraft – When you own an aircraft, you’ll have a consistent customer experience every time you fly. And, by getting to know the crew and pilots, you’ll elevate your flying experience. The same can be said of your aircraft. The more you fly, the more familiar you’ll become with the performance and capabilities of the jet. As the owner, you’ll also know the aircraft’s operational and maintenance history.
• Management services – Whole aircraft owners may have access to management services from the company through which they purchase aircraft. Management services aid in keeping private jets in good repair and compliance with FAA regulations. While these services come at a price, they also eliminate much of the hassle and guesswork involved in purchasing a private aircraft directly from the manufacturer.

Can Owning a Private Jet Be Profitable?

With whole ownership, owners can hire their aircraft out for private charters as well. In exchange, they receive a portion of the profits from those flights. That creates the potential to offset the cost of owning the aircraft, and in some cases, generate extra income. This isn’t a prerequisite of whole ownership, but the option is there for those who wish to take advantage of it.

Drawbacks of Whole Ownership

When you own the entire aircraft, you have two choices: run your own flight department or hire an aircraft management company. Regardless of which option you choose, whole ownership brings additional costs beyond the initial purchase price. It’s also important to consider that you alone own all of the expenses of the aircraft and are responsible for unexpected maintenance and crews getting sick or being unavailable.

One of the main drawbacks of whole ownership is the lack of flexibility in choosing your aircraft. When you charter a jet, you can work with a broker to ensure you always have the right jet for your mission. As an owner, if you need a longer-range aircraft for a transatlantic mission or don’t want to incur the operating costs of your heavy jet for a short journey, you’re left looking for the right plane elsewhere.

Is Whole Ownership a Good Solution for Private Fliers?

Whole ownership with an aircraft management company is an excellent solution for those who want to own their own private aircraft but need extra help with maintenance and compliance. It’s a great option for frequent fliers and can be a lucrative venture for those who offer their planes for charter flights.

Leading Companies Offering Whole Aircraft Ownership

Not many companies offer the option of whole ownership, but one key player advertises this solution: JetLinx. Whole owners can take advantage of the company’s maintenance services and make their aircraft available to its jet cardholders. With its whole ownership program, the company promises potential discounts on fuel and maintenance as well as many other perks.

Delta Private Jets offers a similar ownership assistance program.

Wholly Owned and Operated Aircraft

Owning a private jet certainly has its perks. It gives owners the ability to fly wherever they want whenever they want. Those who can fly their own planes or have connections with certified pilots enjoy even more benefits. This arrangement also allows owners/operators to skip the middlemen and create higher profit margins for themselves by offering charters directly. However, this model also comes with serious risks for the owner/operator and the charter customer.

Pitfalls of the Owner/Operator Business Model

The owner/operator business model is fraught with financial risks. From the cost of purchasing the plane to maintenance and expenses, it can be difficult to generate a return on investment with a single plane and pilot. For customers, this focus on profitability brings serious safety and reliability concerns.

If you choose to charter a jet from an owner/operator, be sure to do your due diligence in vetting the aircraft, crew, and the company’s financial stability before you book.

Wholesale Private Aviation Business Models

Retail business models encompass much of the private aviation sector, but wholesale business models are equally important to the industry. Aircraft wholesalers enter contracts with jet charter companies, promising the use of their planes for private flights.

Traditionally, these planes have a home base, and flyers will leave from and return to that base. And, if a customer departs from another airport, they will pay repositioning fees.

However, thanks to the internet and an increased ability to communicate aircraft positioning, aircraft operators have developed strategies to drive increased revenues to the aircraft they own or manage. Namely, some carriers sell block hours to charter brokers while others employ a floating fleet model.

Let’s look deeper into each of these models to learn more about the advantages and disadvantages so you can make a more informed decision for your next flight.

How Does a Traditional Private Jet Charter Company Work?

In a traditional private jet charter model, the air carrier typically serves local clients in a dedicated region. This model is very common with managed aircraft as the owner of the private jet wants to have access to their aircraft at a moment’s notice. Because the operator quotes the airplane to and from its base, the cost of the charter flight to the customer is often higher. In this model, the aircraft typically fly less often than aircraft used in other business models, resulting in a more well-maintained and luxurious cabin.

What are the Advantages of a Traditional Private Jet Charter Model?

Most aircraft owners want to keep their private planes in pristine condition. They use charters to offset some of the costs of ownership, but don’t expect their planes to become profit centers. When a customer books a charter flight operating with this model, they can typically count on a luxurious aircraft. Because this model isn’t about maximizing, customers see increased flexibility to make changes on the day of the flight as they own the crew duty day. These planes are ideal for business travelers who need to visit multiple cities in a day or two.

What are the Disadvantages of a Traditional Private Jet Charter Model?

• Owner Approval – Because this model is oriented around the needs of aircraft owners, many aircraft owners don’t want their aircraft booked too far out into the future. This makes quotes subject to Owner Approval prior to confirming a booking.
• Unoccupied flight time – For one-way charters, a traditional private jet charter will charge the customer to fly the plane back to base. Even for round trips, it is possible that the aircraft will be required elsewhere before your return flight, which could result in fees for repositioning the aircraft twice for a round trip.

What are Block Hours on a Private Jet?

Wholesale buyers, like Stratos, secure hours with high-quality carriers on specific planes and make them exclusive to their client base.

This model ensures that the wholesale buyer’s customer can always choose a top-quality aircraft whenever they need it. Typically, wholesale buyers purchase block hour agreements of around 50 hours per month. While it doesn’t directly equate to savings for the customer, it ensures more reliable service and luxurious aircraft.

What is a Floating Fleet in Private Aviation?

Unlike the traditional private jet model above, floating fleets (also called free-floating fleets) are fleets of aircraft that have no pre-defined base location. These planes fly from point to point around a certain area or region, which reduces unoccupied flight time for the operator and results in savings for the jet charter customer.

Floating fleet models are very common for carriers that own their own aircraft, as it allows them to maximize revenue while staying competitive with pricing.

Advantages of a Floating Fleet

• Potential cost savings – The breakeven point for a floating fleet model is around 2 hours of flight time. For flights longer than 2.2 hours, customers will see modest cost savings.
• No owner approval required – Floating fleet aircraft are intended to maximize their revenues, meaning these airplanes fly all day, every day.
• Increased flexibility to change or cancel your flight – Because an aircraft isn’t assigned to a route until a few days before departure, it’s often possible to make changes to your departure date and time up to 96 hours before your intended departure.
• Potential for an upgrade – Air carriers that operate a floating fleet use fleet optimization software to maximize profitability, making it possible that a larger aircraft is actually more cost-effective.

Disadvantages of Floating Fleets

• No control over aircraft selection – When clients charter a jet from a floating fleet, they don’t have any control over the specific aircraft selection. The aircraft is determined by the operator as they fill in their schedule.
• Higher hourly rates – Because the aircraft move from point to point, they are often quoted at higher hourly rates than home-based aircraft. This allows the operator to cover the cost of moving the jet to its next destination while still offering a modest discount over the home-based model.
• Shorter flights are more expensive – Your aircraft is part of a string of flights on the operator’s schedule. That makes for typically more expensive short flights than a traditional aircraft charter flight.
• No aircraft assigned at booking – In most cases, a tail number isn’t assigned until 24 hours before the flight. This is done to optimize the fleet across a predefined schedule.
• Strict schedule – With a floating fleet, everything runs on a strict schedule. This makes it very difficult to make any changes to your departure time or routing within a few days of your departure.
• Potential for delays – When multiple flights are strung together, even a simple mechanical delay can cause a chain reaction that impacts everyone chartering a jet in the fleet. In some cases, customers can even be left stranded or severely delayed. That’s why we recommend booking aircraft that are not part of a floating fleet when you’re on a strict schedule.
• Heavy use – These planes fly all day, every day. That means customers booking a jet that’s part of a floating fleet may not have the most luxurious cabin.

Home-based Wholesale Private Aviation Businesses

Remote operations are gaining popularity thanks to growing technology. Because of that, operating a wholesale private aviation business from home is now entirely possible. It can also be complicated, especially in the beginning.

The entrepreneurs behind this approach cover several prerequisites before offering their aircraft and services to jet charter companies, including purchasing an aircraft. Some home-based wholesale private aviation businesses also work with companies offering whole ownership programs to offset the cost.

Like all private jet businesses, these home-based wholesale private aviation businesses must meet Part 135 regulations and gain FAA approval before their jets take to the skies.

Benefits of the Home-based Wholesale Business Model

For private aviation travelers, private jets owned by a home-based wholesale private aviation may be made more affordable. This potential for savings stems from the company’s ability to reduce overhead costs by eliminating the need for office space, extra utilities, and staff members.

Drawbacks of a Home-based Wholesale Private Aviation Business

It can be challenging for home-based private aviation businesses to get off the ground and become profitable. Like with owner/operator business models, this can be a cause for concern about the reliability and safety of the aircraft. The best way to ensure you’re always chartering a safe and reliable aircraft from a reputable carrier is to book through an ARGUS-certified broker.

Stratos Jet Charters, Inc.: Keeping Clients Safe and Satisfied

At Stratos Jet Charters, Inc., we offer a broad range of solutions to our clients. Every time you take to the skies with Stratos, we’re dedicated to understanding your travel needs and goals. Our private aviation experts conduct a full market analysis coupled with education about the operators and how they meet your objectives. This all comes together to provide an aircraft you can trust to meet your needs so you can enjoy a safe and reliable travel experience.

At Stratos Jets, we combine multiple business models to better meet your needs. Our dedication to safety and the customer experience has helped us become a leader in the private aviation industry.

Here’s how we can help:

Private Jet Charters

We understand that businesses and individuals looking for private jet charters have diverse needs, and those needs are constantly changing. Our experienced team also knows that this sector is incredibly dynamic. For on-demand charter flights, our services are unsurpassed in the industry.

Through our Soar and Soar Higher fixed-rate private jet memberships, we offer frequent fliers the ability to secure rates for five aircraft classes for six or 12 months, respectively. Members also benefit from penalty-free cancellations up to 72 hours in advance and no costly repositioning, fuel surcharges, de-icing, hangar expenses, or pet fees.

Whether you’re flying on-demand or as a Soar Higher member, you can choose from thousands of private jets of all types. We can also take clients to a long list of destinations that are otherwise unreachable through other brokers and commercial airlines. At Stratos, we’re dedicated to offering exceptional travel coordination services and go the extra mile to make sure every flight we book provides our clients with an exceptional flying experience.

Aircraft Management Services

Through our sister company, we also provide aircraft management services for owners and businesses. With nearly 20 years of experience in the aviation industry, we’re fully aware of the FAA’s complex requirements. We confidently help owners keep their aircraft in compliance with Part 91 for personal use, and we’re equally equipped to help for-hire aircraft owners remain in compliance with Part 135.

Our team can manage routine maintenance, repairs, and reporting, among other services. We also provide flight team recruitment and training, charter flight scheduling, and contract negotiation. Our goal is to help private aircraft owners make the most of their investments, whether they want to use their planes for personal travel or to generate additional income.

Aircraft Purchases and Sales

At Stratos, we can facilitate seamless aircraft purchases for our clients. For businesses and individuals interested in purchasing private aircraft, finding the right planes isn’t an easy process, but thanks to our extensive network, we can help clients find the perfect aircraft to suit their unique needs.

We’re dedicated to educating our clients on the ins and outs of aircraft ownership so they can take full advantage of their investments. Of course, we’d be happy to handle their aircraft management needs after the purchase, if they desire. Those are only a few of the aircraft acquisition services we cover.

For those who want to sell their private aircraft, we can use our connections to find qualified buyers. There are numerous prospects currently available in the market for used private jets, and our dedicated team members can connect them with sellers. We will take every necessary measure to ensure these transactions go smoothly for all parties involved.

Catering to Clients’ Discerning Needs

Stratos Jet Charters, Inc. soars above and beyond to exceed our clients’ expectations. From taking care of specific medical needs to providing in-flight catering, we’re committed to ensuring client satisfaction on every charter flight. We also pay extra attention to client safety, setting the bar higher than the requirements of the FAA and other agencies.

We’ve earned the backing of numerous regulatory organizations in the private aviation sector, including ARGUS, Wyvern, the Air Charter Safety Foundation, the Air Charter Association of North America, the National Business Aviation Association, and Dun & Bradstreet, to name a few. No matter what your private aviation needs may be, we’re here to cover them.

Please reach out to discover how we can help you soar higher.