From Luxury to Necessity: Why More Executives Are Turning to Private Jet Charters
Written by Kaitlyn Gomez
Change is inevitable, and the private aircraft charter industry is certainly no exception. There was a time when all non-commercial air travel options were quite expensive and therefore typically reserved for only the wealthiest of individuals. Today, prices have dropped for a myriad of reasons, and companies of all sizes are taking advantage of this fact. As the old saying goes, "time is money," and time is something that can absolutely be saved by utilizing one of the many private aviation options available currently.
Maximum Productivity
Although commercial air travel has always and will always serve an important purpose, there is no denying the fact that delays, long wait times, and hard-set flight schedules can prove costly in the world of business. Today's executives are well aware that there is definite value in avoiding these time-wasting possibilities. Time wasted equates to money wasted, with delays costing business owners millions yearly. Video conferencing options may have decreased the overall need for business travel, but there will always be business that must be conducted face to face. From smaller, single-engine aircraft and helicopters to ultra long range private jets, the options remain the same: no layovers, flexible flight times, and a plethora of interior options which offer plenty of workspace.Pandemic & Security Concerns
The recent pandemic played a role in changing the private jet boom that we are witnessing today. After losing out on billions of dollars due to greatly reduced travel, many commercial airlines have since cut back on or even eliminated certain routes. Business travelers, who have long opted for business class flights and frequent travel reward programs, have found themselves left out in the cold. The private aviation industry has wisely taken action to quickly fill in the blanks, offering executives the flight options that they need and want in order to connect with clients, customers, and partners around the globe.Flight security has been a major concern since the 9/11 attacks. The increases in security are widely seen as important in protecting the safety of all who take to the skies. However, those same increases can be very time-consuming and can even lead to serious delays and, in some cases, missed flights. Security matters do extend to business-specific matters as well. The level of discretion and privacy offered on a private flight simply cannot be beat. Charter flights ensure a curated and vetted passenger list, providing space for safe and secure business discussions.
The Rise of Regional Air Travel
Regional travel is on the rise as companies continue to make the move to cost-effective, lesser inhabited corners of the globe. Many of these locations are inaccessible when solely relying on commercial air travel. Private jets and helicopters are perfectly suited for regional travel and reaching lesser-connected locations due to the fact that their smaller sizes open them up to being able to operate on smaller airfields and airports. Simply put, large, commercial aircraft are typically too large to safely use these facilities and therefore are not allowed to do so.Perception of Cost
For now, private jet charters are typically more expensive than commercial travel. However, many companies are able to see the value in this type of travel and understand that it is a form of investment in the business. Regardless of the product, service, or business model, it's easy to justify the costs when factoring in the increase in the success rate of face-to-face deals, the increase in overall opportunities, and the increase in productivity. To sweeten the deal even more, many private charter companies are now offering cost-saving options such as fractional ownership and membership-based reward programs. Perks such as these can help keep spending to a minimum.Private jets are no longer viewed as just a mode of transport for the rich, the famous, and top politicians. It is also no longer just a flight, but instead, an airborne office, complete with all of the space and tools needed to get the job done. For today’s in-the-know executives, private air travel is not solely about indulgence. Instead, it's about staying ahead of the rest of the pack in today's extremely fast-paced global economy.
