Air Partner, the global aviation services group, saw enquiries for its ultra-convenient JetCard product double this January compared to last year, as travellers prepare for the easing of restrictions and plan their long-awaited holidays abroad.
Air Partner’s trusted JetCard programme allows clients to buy private jet flying ‘hours’ in advance. It offers a seamless and secure way of guaranteeing private travel availability within 24 hours, as well as the ability to change booking details or cancel up to the very last minute without penalty. It is proving popular as it gives travellers the ability to fly in safety the moment travel restrictions are lifted, but with flexibility in case they need to amend plans.
Air Partner expects interest in JetCard hours to increase as commercial airlines may struggle to meet a surge in demand when travel restrictions lift, given many have reduced staff numbers, including pilots, and limited commercial flight availability in Europe because of the impact of COVID-19 on the industry.
Private jets themselves are also likely to be in very high demand and may be difficult to book at peak times such as weekends in the coming summer. In June 2020, Air Partner experienced a 321% increase in people interested in private flying as COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, as it is a safer, flexible and more reliable option than commercial flying. Buying JetCard hours in advance guarantees the availability of a private jet this summer, even if demand is very high.
JetCard membership also protects fliers from any market volatility and price fluctuations for private jet flights. It means travellers can confidently pre-book well in advance and be ahead in the queue for issues such as slots, permits and aircraft selection.
Prices for Air Partner’s JetCard begin at €29,875 for the ‘JetCard 5’, which includes five hours of flight time.
Kevin Macnaughton, Managing Director Charter at Air Partners, commented: “JetCard is a brilliant product for those who are able to invest in reserving private jet hours in advance. While the concept of private jet membership has been popular in the US for several years, the pandemic has opened the eyes of the European market to the benefits of JetCard. The flexibility it offers, and crucially the fact it guarantees access to a private jet at very short notice, means it is proving popular for those who want to know they can easily travel when lockdown restrictions allow.”