We talk with VistaJet CCO Ian Moore about the rise of private aviation post-pandemic, the role of technology and the flexibility of the company’s membership-based model.

Ian Moore has served as chief commercial officer of VistaJet since 2010 and is responsible for global market expansion, commercial negotiations, sales, marketing, customer service and product delivery. He previously held roles with NetJets Europe and Business Jets Pvt Ltd, the business jet subsidiary of TATA.

How would you describe the growth of private jet travel in the post-pandemic era? What key trends have you observed?

VistaJet has experienced a surge in travel bookings since 2023 in the post-pandemic era from existing and new VistaJet members who evoke a reinvigorated passion for ultimate explorations – with APAC flight traffic increased 19% in the first three quarters of 2024. Members’ wish to plan new adventures is being heightened by a ‘Revenge Travel’ feel – a term describing the desire to travel better than ever before to make up for time lost during the pandemic.

Can you share any statistics or insights regarding the increase in demand for private aviation services since the pandemic restrictions have eased?

In 2023, the Group operated around 87,000 flights — 18% more YOY and 80% up against pre-pandemic levels— with the numbers expected to keep increasing in 2024.

“VistaJet has experienced a surge in travel bookings since 2023 in the post-pandemic era from existing and new VistaJet members”

VistaJet has experienced significant growth in Asia, cementing its status as the preferred private aviation partner for businesspeople and high-net-worth individuals. According to Altrata’s 2024 Billionaire Census report, Hong Kong ranks second in the list of cities with the highest number of billionaires worldwide after New York City. In the Henley & Partners’ Centi-Millionaire Report, Hong Kong, along with other leading Asian cities, ranks among the top global hubs for people worth more than US$100 million.

The growing customer base in the region is increasingly choosing VistaJet, and our program Memberships increased by 15% in the first three quarters of this year in Asia-Pacific. Members are also flying more often, with the number of flights up 20% in the first three quarters of the year across Asia-Pacific and 16% for flights for North Asia.

In what ways have the travel preferences of your clients changed because of the pandemic?

After COVID-19 caused massive disruption to commercial air travel in 2020, many corporations have left behind commercial travel, and are now choosing private for its safety, convenience and luxury. By opting for private jet travel, companies gain the ability to set their travel schedules and can fly directly to their destination. Therefore, VistaJet has implemented safety measures for our members, adhering to the highest global standards in private aviation to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

This includes amplifying its cleaning procedures with long-term surface disinfectant Bacoban after each flight and applying a full sanitisation cycle by an approved agency across all VistaJet aircraft, with further cleaning and treatment carried out as requested by crew should a suspected exposure on board be reported. In addition, all Global 7500 aircraft in VistaJet’s fleet are equipped with the Pũr Air system, which uses advanced HEPA filters to purify and replace cabin air rapidly. This system captures up to 99.99% of bacteria particles and refreshes the cabin air in as little as 90 seconds.

“After COVID-19 caused massive disruption to commercial air travel in 2020, many corporations have left behind commercial travel”

VistaJet has pioneered an innovative business model that allows customers to pay only for the hours they fly. How has this model been received by clients during the recovery phase?

VistaJet’s innovative business model, which allows customers to pay only for the hours they fly, has been very well received by clients during the recovery phase. This model offers significant advantages, such as convenience, flexibility, customisation, security, and privacy, without the need to own a private jet. Clients appreciate the cost-effective and flexible alternative to ownership, especially through VistaJet’s exclusive memberships. Our program membership offers guaranteed availability to our distinctive silver and red fleet with as little as 24 hours notice at a fixed-rate cost. This approach has catered to the needs of frequent travellers.

Can you elaborate on the unique features of VistaJet’s subscription programme and how it provides value to clients compared to traditional aircraft ownership?

VistaJet offers flexible, investment-free solutions to suit our members’ flying requirements. VistaJet offers our members access to a consistent and branded fleet of super-midsize, long-range and super-long-range aircraft with unparalleled service. All three types of Memberships ­- Program, VJ25 and Corporate – come with a range of exclusive benefits, including access to Private World and VistaJet’s iconic onboard services and each membership can be customised to your needs upon joining, with flexibility in your contract to access the members’ global fleet including requesting a specific aircraft type based on your flight mission.

“Our clients have flown to over 2,400 airports in 96% of the world’s countries”

Innovation has been a core aspect of VistaJet’s mission for two decades. What technological advancements have you implemented recently to enhance customer experience?

At VistaJet, we prioritise continuous innovation to stay ahead of the competition and have a keen sense of industry trends. For example, our ‘pay-per-hour- model removes uncertainty about flight expenses and lets clients enjoy the flexibility of private jet travel without the burden of ownership costs.

In addition, VistaJet’s newly launched app enhances convenience, allowing clients to book flights, manage their accounts, and access a range of personalised services at their fingertips. The app lets clients choose their preferred aircraft and customise their experience based on their preferences.

By investing in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine-learning technology, we are also optimising how we fly by employing predictive route algorithms that reduce ferry flights and fuel consumption. The FLIGHTKEYS 5D flight management system optimises route, level and speed to reduce fuel consumption by 8% per flight while heightened system automation allows VistaJet dispatchers to increase efficiency in flight re-planning, while 3D optimization in congested airspace minimizes the possibility of slot issues and delays.

We have also added high-speed Wi-Fi matching broadband coverage and connectivity speeds on the ground, transforming the cabin into an “office in the sky.”

Safety and service standards are crucial for private aviation. How has VistaJet maintained and improved its safety and service protocols in the wake of the pandemic?

Our clients have flown to over 2,400 airports in 96% of the world’s countries. But much like their travel plans, our horizons and resources are always expanding and we hold the highest safety ratings across flight operations, safety risk assessment and compliance standards. As the world works to respond to the evolving situation of COVID-19, VistaJet is committed to working with our customers and community, and this includes receiving expert security and safety advice from Control Risks and Osprey, using both human and AI-driven intelligence; and working with MedAire, which provides leading medical air support on the ground and in the air.

VistaJet’s flagship is the Bombardier Global 7500; what does this remarkable jet offer business travellers looking to travel privately?

The Global 7500 is the largest and longest-range business jet and offers unbeatable global connectivity flying up to 17 hours non-stop. Precision-engineered wings provide an exceptionally smooth ride in the large cabin, with four separate living spaces, including a permanent stateroom, this jet is perfectly suited for business or a family dynamic. Popular flight routes for this jet include Abu Dhabi to Dulles, Virginia, serving Washington DC (distance: 11,407 km, time est: 12.5 hours); Los Angeles to Seoul (distance: 9,646 km, time est: 10.5 hours); and Tokyo to Paris (distance: 9,730 km, time est: 11 hours).

“ultra-high-net-worth individuals prefer quiet luxury with personalised service — targeting remote, private destinations accessible via private airports”

What do you foresee as the future of private aviation in the next few years?

Luxury travel is undergoing a profound transformation. As highlighted in a recent McKinsey & Company report, ultra-high-net-worth individuals prefer quiet luxury with personalised service — targeting remote, private destinations accessible via private airports that feature tailored experiences available nowhere else.

VistaJet Private World stands at the vanguard of this emerging paradigm, crafting one-of-a-kind journeys as distinct as the discerning individuals who embark upon them. By anticipating the evolving preferences of the world’s most discerning travellers, VistaJet redefines the very essence of luxury travel.

Are there any upcoming initiatives or expansions that VistaJet is planning to capitalise on the growing private jet travel market?

VistaJet will continually seek ways to offer bespoke travel experiences and surprise our members. We collaborate with hundreds of brands worldwide to create customisable and highly personalised itineraries. For example, we now offer access to the world’s most premium private clubs for our Private World members, with locations in the US, London, Paris, and Hong Kong. We also provide festive celebrations with our members at 45,000 feet, like celebrating the Year of the Snake by offering exclusive dining experiences.

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