Skiers switch to private jets as airline prices soar

Flying to ski resorts by private jet has always been more convenient and comfortable for ski travellers - at a cost. But with peak airline prices this year looking particularly steep, this price gap is narrowing says PrivateFly, as it reports a surge of additional interest from skiing families and groups.

Carol Cork, Marketing Director at PrivateFly comments:

“We are seeing 60 per cent more demand for private jet travel to ski resorts compared to this time last year and many are families and larger groups, looking to share the cost. Private jet charter is priced per aircraft, so if seats are filled, the cost per head can be less than many people think.

“One of our ski groups is a party of 30, flying to Chambery in France, close to Meribel. They are paying £26,500 for a 3-day return from London Luton in a private 33-seat Saab 340 aircraft, which works out at £883 per person.

“We’re also flying three families who are sharing a 13-seat Embraer Legacy 600, from London Biggin Hill to Geneva. The cost is £25,400 return, which works out at £1,954 per person.”

“More and more people are switching on to the idea that private jet charter is not just for celebrities, VIPs and the super-rich. While VIP service and catering in a spacious, private cabin are obviously enjoyable, there are also many time-saving and convenience benefits, which can be all-important for short ski trips. Such as a check-in time of just 15 minutes before take-off; a bespoke itinerary; and using smaller airports.

“Private jet users can take advantage of flying into smaller airports in ski resorts too, saving many hours of transfer time on a return journey. These include Sion Airport, 45 minutes from Verbier, Zermatt or other Trois Vallées resorts, versus 2 - 3 hours by road from Geneva. Or Samedan-Engadin, just 10 minutes from St Moritz, instead of a 3 hour drive from Zurich.

“Avoiding the Heathrow or Gatwick airline experience at peak times is very appealing to many, especially those travelling with children. And with airline prices so high for ski travellers this year, these benefits can now be enjoyed at a small or negligible price premium.”

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