Current Trends Show That Luxury Air Travel Isn’t Just For The Rich And Famous

For many people, the journey matters more than the destination. And there’s no better way to prove it than by splurging on a private jet or a first-class airline ticket.

According to industry insiders, there’s a lot more luxury flying taking place these days than our uncertain economic conditions might suggest.

“Revenge travel”

Economy-class flights certainly serve an important purpose. As the name suggests, these tickets get you where you want to go for the lowest price possible.

But if you want to arrive in style, it’ll cost you … and a growing number of travelers are willing to pay the price.

As we mentioned yesterday, a new term — “funflation” — has been coined to describe the post-pandemic “you only live once” behavior of spending big bucks on vacations, dining, and other experiences.

That trend also applies to air travel.

Oliver’s Travels cofounder Oliver Bell knows about arranging luxury getaways for his clients and says he’s seen a significant uptick in what he refers to as “revenge travel,” or the willingness of travelers to “spend more for incredible experiences” in the aftermath of COVID-19 lockdowns.

Know your options

Sure, buying a private jet and hiring a personal pilot might not fit into the budget. But there are other options that can give your next flight a serious upgrade without completely breaking the bank.

Here are some options experts say are worth considering:

• Semi-private jets: If you’ve got a flexible schedule, you might be able to catch a surprisingly affordable ride on a semi-private jet operated by some regional carriers.
• Perks and points: First-class tickets can be a lot less expensive for those with credit cards that offer reward points.
• Affordable luxury: Just below first-class is “premium class,” offering upgrades over economy like more legroom, complimentary food and drinks, and priority boarding.

Chris Agee June 28th, 2024

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