Flying private is an ultimate luxury service, but there are a LOT of sites that can help you land a seat on a private jet for much less than what you would expect. Here are four:
Chances are you haven’t realized this, but there are a LOT of sites that can help you land a seat on a private jet. While there are really only two main car share services (Uber and Lyft, see my last post for an in-depth comparison of the two) there’s a veritable wealth of options when it comes to flying private.
Here’s my basic rundown for you on some of the operations game in town:
Delta: I thought I’d start with the most surprising option. At the end of July, Delta Airlines announced they will soon be giving select passengers the option to upgrade from first class to a seat on Delta Private Jets. The cost to do so would be about $300-$800 (on top of the first class ticket you’ve already purchased) but, for the uninitiated, it’s a low risk entrance into the world of private jetting.
Victor: The closest thing to hailing a taxi, Victor is a platform that can help you find on-demand, last-minute seating on private jets (including deals to fill already-hired jets with empty flight legs.) There are no upfront cost for users and the app prides itself on being the only jet-rental service that is completely financially transparentyou will see every fee you are being charged and know exactly what the money is going towards. Refreshing, no?
JetSmarter: As a replacement broker, the JetSmarter mobile app is the closest thing to becoming the Uber of private air travel. Choose between JetDeals existing flights that offer deeply-discounted tickets (the deals get even better if you’re a JetSmarter member); Jet Shuttleexisting flights that are available for booking; and JetChartercustomize your own itinerary and select the type of jet that works for you.
Take Air: A members-only club, this European jet rental service allows you to choose between two joining options: all-you-can fly (fixed monthly fee) or pre-paid flight cards. Once you’ve joined, you can log on to their website and book any flight you want (as late as 30 minutes before takeoff!) You can also cancel at no charge until 2 hours before your flight, making this an amazing choice for those who fly by the seat of their pants, so to speak.
As private jet rental becomes the next booming sector of the share economy, I’m sure the number of apps will explode. Tried any of the services I’m talking about? Please share your experiences with us!