Flying Private Is More Affordable Than Ever—and Offers Uncrowded Travel Experience
Private aviation is seeing a surge of interest from a new segment of would-be passengers: those seeking to minimize the health risks of air travel during the COVID-19 era. As the country reopens and more flights take to the skies, private aviation terminals like Luxivair SBD allow passengers to bypass the crowds normally associated with air travel. And in the current environment, flying privately is more affordable than ever—in some instances, it can even be more economical than flying commercially.
“People often think private aviation is an option only for the wealthy or corporations,” says Wendy Bechtel, Luxivair SBD’s manager. “But I encourage anyone who is planning air travel to consider their options—there’s never been a better time to fly private. At Luxivair SBD, passengers can avoid the crowds and hassles they normally encounter during air travel.”
In recent years, the private aviation industry has expanded to offer lower-cost options that meet the needs of a wider segment of travelers. Today, reduced fuel prices and legislation in the CARES Act have decreased the costs of flying private even further, making it a viable alternative, particularly for travelers concerned with congested public spaces.
For even greater savings, travelers with flexible schedules and destinations can look for “empty leg” flights. After a private jet drops off paying charter passengers, it often needs to go to a different airport to pick up new customers. To offset the costs of repositioning the aircraft, operators may offer seats at a deep discount—sometimes as much as 75% off. Empty legs are particularly cost-effective for those planning to travel as a family or with a small group of friends. When the overall cost of an empty leg charter is divided among a group, the price per person can be on par with flying commercially. To arrange a private charter or search for empty leg flights, check the Air Charter Guide.
Flying by business jet through an uncrowded private terminal (known as an FBO in aviation terms) has long appealed to celebrities and executives who appreciate the ease and privacy it offers. These benefits have an even broader appeal now:
- Private aviation offers speedy check-in, security, and boarding, allowing travelers to bypass large crowds.
- Those flying privately choose their flight companions, significantly reducing the risk of airborne transmission associated with being confined in close proximity to unknown travelers.
- At private FBOs, passengers can simply deplane and be on their way, avoiding passage through busy crowded terminals and waiting at luggage carousels.
- FBOs strictly adhere to the most stringent cleaning procedures.