Guest Post By: Aaron A.
The private jet industry is much larger than most might imagine, with about 11,000 business jets in the worldwide fleet. Many are owned by businesses and corporations for the use of their executives and the majority are based within the US. However, before the current economic troubles began, expanding markets for private jets were present in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Central America. It is logical to assume that these markets will continue to expand once economic factors reach a greater level of stability.
The market for private jets is so great simply because there is no better way to travel. A private jet allows swift travel in quiet and comfort, bypassing the crowds and harrowing security checks present with commercial flights. Furthermore, private jets fly on the traveler’s schedule rather than the airports. Being able to schedule the departure and arrival times of the flight is a wonderful convenience. Passengers can also provide for personalized menus and entertainment during the flight. Depending upon the size of the jet, ranging from very light to heavy, the aircraft can generally transport upwards of six people.
Besides being owned by companies and individuals, private jets can also be chartered for individual flights or owned by a consortium of businesses to service all of their executives. Empty leg charter flights are also available. This refers to the return flights of charter jets, which would otherwise lack passengers and so are marketed at discounted prices to avoid taking a loss. These methods of flight cut costs and make the pleasure of private jet travel available to a wider customer base.