Flying private takes air travel to new heights.

Flying private is a rapidly growing trend, especially in the Middle East, with those who have the means opting for this more comfortable, stress-free style of travel. In January this year, the Mohammed bin Rashid Aerospace Hub at Dubai South recorded an impressive eight per cent growth in the number of private jet flights compared to the previous year, with a record-setting 16,657 private aircraft movements in 2023, the highest in Dubai’s history. 

A growing number of people are choosing to avoid the crowds that come with flying on commercial airlines, counting the flexibility offered by private flights as one of the most appealing things for today’s traveller. Even flying first class on a commercial airline can’t match the experience of a chartered flight. Yes, you might have a nice, quiet lounge to wait in, giving you the impression of luxury, but you’re still running on the airline’s schedule. 

With private aircraft, however, you decide when you’d like to depart, with no lengthy security lines, no queues as far as the eye can see. You board at your leisure and, with an average cruising speed of 500 mph, private jets also significantly cut journey times compared to commercial flights – perfect for when you have somewhere to be in a hurry.

Flying private essentially means you’re buying back your time. It’s not just about saving time at the airport itself, it goes for onboard too. Despite having onboard wi-fi and semi-private booths on commercial first-class flights, you don’t have the freedom to speak privately and openly with others like you do on private aircraft. Private jets, on the other hand, are a great place to hold business meetings, either in person or on the phone. After all, our time is more valuable than money, given we’re only ever running out of it. So, being able to make calls or close a business deal is something you can do onboard without interference, giving you more time to do other things when you land. 

When you’ve finished work, or just want some ‘me time’, there’s again no better way to relax when in the sky than on a private jet. They have all the space you need – and crucially, it’s all to yourself, so you can relax in ultimate comfort. Depending on which aircraft you’re in, you may even have separate bedrooms, so you can get a perfect night’s sleep just like you would at home (and perhaps on an even comfier bed). 

Take for instance the impressive Gulfstream G700. Not only is it one of the fastest on the market, it also has a full-sized bed and separate bathroom and shower, making it akin to a home away from home, and ideal whether you’re travelling alone or with a small group. 

However, if you’re travelling in a larger group – up to 33 people to be exact – one bathroom and bed simply won’t cut it. So you’re better off opting for something like the magnificent Boeing 767 private jet, which has multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and lounge areas within its incredible 2,000 sqft interior. 

Another unique perk when flying private is the food. Instead of eating mass-produced meals, you can enjoy freshly prepared gourmet dishes created by world-class chefs, giving a whole new meaning to indulging at 40,000 ft. Not only is it as good as any Michelin-starred restaurant, it’s also tailored to your tastes, and made specifically for each flight. 

It’s this attention to detail that sets flying private apart from everything else. From the moment you book your flight to the moment you land, everything has been thought of for you. All you have to do is plan how you want to spend your time. 

Flying private allows you to be present in the moment, something hard to do in our busy everyday lives. Ironically, flying fast allows you to slow down. Privacy is paramount and comfort is part of the ride. 

Private jets are redefining air travel for an experience like no other. Whether you’re travelling solo on business or chartering a flight with a group of friends, your experience is elevated from the norm, making it easy to see why this way of travelling is growing so rapidly. The only downside is, once you start flying private, there’s no going back.