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, particularly post-Covid-19 due to concerns over health and safety on commercial flights. Additionally, the cost of private jet charters can be competitive with 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 for their holiday travels. James explained that the peak demand in the Middle East occurs just before summer, coinciding with the closure of schools for holidays. He reported a 30-40 percent increase in demand for private jet charters to European destinations during the summer.
At the beginning of summer, a significant number of families and high-net-worth individuals from the UAE travel to Europe, the US, and other popular vacation spots, leading to a rise in demand for private jet charters. Adam Neave, the head of charter at Gama Aviation, mentioned that while demand peaks at various times throughout the year, it particularly surges during the summer travel season. He anticipates a similar increase this summer, citing a steady rise in charter inquiries towards the end of the second quarter.
Private jet charter prices vary based on factors like aircraft size, distance, and travel dates. Those who choose private jet travel value time efficiency, avoiding long security lines, layovers, and strict schedules typical of commercial flights. Private jets also allow for direct flights to smaller airports closer to the final destination, eliminating the need for additional ground transportation.
Neave noted that private jet charters become more cost-effective when accessing remote locations or maintaining tight schedules that are impractical with commercial airlines. The luxury of traveling on one's own schedule and avoiding the commercial aviation sector's congestion comes with a premium. James also pointed out that the Covid-19 pandemic has accentuated the trend of group chartering due to health and safety concerns on commercial flights.
Flying in a private jet is roughly ten times more expensive than traveling First Class on a commercial airline. James provided an example, stating that a commercial flight from Dubai to London or Paris could cost between Dh18,400 and Dh36,800, whereas a private jet charter for the same route ranges from Dh184,000 to Dh312,500 depending on the aircraft. However, First Class commercial fares can escalate significantly during weekends or for last-minute bookings.
Popular summer destinations include London, Paris, Nice, Cannes, Geneva, Zurich, Munich, and tropical paradises like the Maldives, Male, Mauritius, and Seychelles. Neave highlighted increased demand for private jet charters due to global sporting events like the UEFA European Championships in Germany and the Olympics in Paris. He also mentioned high demand for destinations like Greece, Italy, and the Mediterranean region, which face severe restrictions on airport slots and parking, along with new state tax charges on flights to certain locations.
