The demand for private jet charters typically increases by up to 40 percent during the summer months, as numerous families and individuals from the UAE seek cooler climates in various destinations. Industry experts note a significant rise in the demand for group charters, typically involving four to eight passengers, which has intensified post-Covid-19 due to health and safety considerations. Additionally, the cost of private jet charters can be competitive when compared to First Class fares on commercial airlines for long-haul flights.
Paul James, the director of sales and aircraft management at DC Aviation Al-Futtaim VIP Terminal, highlighted a notable surge in demand for flights to Europe during the summer. Many families and individuals prefer private jets to reach their holiday spots. James explained that in the Middle East, the peak demand for private jets occurs just before summer, as residents travel to Europe and other destinations. For European routes, there is a 30-40 percent increase in demand for private jet charters during the summer, while the peak in the Middle East is just after schools close for the holidays.
At the beginning of the summer, a significant number of families and affluent individuals from the UAE travel to Europe, the US, and other popular destinations, leading to a rise in demand for private jet charters. Adam Neave, the head of charter at Gama Aviation, mentioned that while there are various peak periods throughout the year, the summer vacation and return journey see a significant surge in bookings. Neave also pointed out that the demand for aircraft charters is influenced by geopolitical factors, making each year unique. There are indications of a similar increase in demand for the upcoming summer season, with a steady rise in charter inquiries towards the end of the second quarter.
Private jet charter prices vary based on factors such as aircraft size, distance, and travel dates. Those who choose private jet travel value time efficiency, aiming to avoid lengthy security checks, layovers, and rigid commercial flight schedules. Private jets also offer the convenience of flying directly to smaller airports closer to the final destination, eliminating the need for additional ground transportation upon arrival. Neave noted that private jet charters become more cost-effective when accessing remote locations or maintaining tight schedules that are not feasible with commercial airlines. The luxury of exclusive use and the flexibility of personal travel schedules come with a premium.
Paul James further added that the Covid-19 pandemic has accentuated the trend of group chartering of private jets due to health and safety concerns associated with commercial flights. Sharing the cost among a group of typically 4-8 people can make private jet charters surprisingly affordable for vacations, with the divided costs often being comparable or even cheaper than first-class commercial tickets, especially for long-distance trips.
The cost of flying in a private jet charter is roughly ten times higher than that of a First-Class commercial flight. James disclosed that a commercial flight from Dubai to London or Paris can range between Dh18,400 and Dh36,800, whereas chartering a private jet for the same route can cost between Dh184,000 and Dh312,500, depending on the aircraft size. However, First Class commercial airline fares can escalate significantly during weekends or for last-minute bookings when seat occupancy is high. An analysis by Khaleej Times revealed that First Class airfares from Dubai to Paris next week could reach as high as Dh44,000 on local airline websites.
Popular summer destinations include London, Paris, Nice, Cannes, Geneva, Zurich, Munich, and tropical paradises like the Maldives, Male, Mauritius, and Seychelles, according to James. Adam Neave highlighted that apart from leisure travel, global sporting events like the UEFA European Championships in Germany and the Olympic Games in Paris will see increased demand for private jet charters. Greece and Italy are particularly in high demand this year, and the Mediterranean region remains a popular choice. There are stringent restrictions on airport slots and parking, along with new state tax charges on flights to certain locations. The South of France continues to be a high-demand destination among clients.
