Private jet operators see huge demand from stranded passengers
STRANDED OR OTHERWISE, MANY ARE PAYING MORE FOR THE CONVENIENCE
Demand for private jets in the UAE, both inbound and outbound, has witnessed a huge spike ever since the outbreak of coronavirus, with stranded passengers willing to cough up the high costs amid global lockdowns and suspension of regular flights.
Even with the skies reopening in many parts of the world and scheduled flights taking off, passengers who can afford it are preferring to take private jets because they are more readily available, are deemed hassle-free and also help limit the risk of exposure to a large number of people on scheduled or chartered repatriation flights, bookings for which in any case are hard to get.
Prior to the onset of Covid-19, our passengers were mostly HNIs [high net worth individuals] and VIPs.”
Khaldoun Ghalayini | Managing director of Gulf Wings
Typical passengers who are using our services now are the ones stuck in certain countries.”
Elie Hanna | Air Charter Service executive
SO WHO ARE THESE PASSENGERS?
Khaldoun Ghalayini, managing director of Gulf Wings, among the first private jet operators in the UAE to cater to the post-Covid-19 demand, told Gulf News, “Prior to the onset of Covid-19, our passengers were mostly HNIs [high net worth individuals] and VIPs operating private jets mainly for privacy, superior schedule efficiency or simply for the sheer joy of indulging in luxury.
“Post Covid-19, however, we are witnessing a phenomenal demand for private jet travel. While the typical business jet travellers are still returning for business or holiday travel, the majority of movements in the months of April, May and June has been by stranded individuals trying to reunite with their families either back in their countries or here in the UAE.”
He said, “Many were really touching stories with children separated from parents, people dealing with sudden loss of loved ones, people newly diagnosed with serious illnesses, stranded away from family unable to get medical care to others or simply risking losing their jobs.”
Elie Hanna, Regional Director
(Middle East, Africa and India) – Private Jets, Air Charter Service, echoes the words. “Typical passengers who are using our services now are the ones stuck in certain countries and are unable to fly to their destination due to the lack of scheduled flights by local airlines and airport restrictions.
Others with pre-existing conditions are avoiding the use of normal terminals and paying extra to fly on a private jet and use less crowded facilities.”
WHAT ABOUT APPROVALS?
According to Hanna, “As with all aircraft charters worldwide, flights can only operate with the necessary approvals from the appropriate authorities. Passengers need to ensure they comply with the regulations set out by the authorities of the countries that they are flying from and to. When our clients call us with a request, we discuss the latest situation specific to their requirement.”