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A different plane: The benefit of private air charters

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19th Nov 2007
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Private jets are normally thought of as the preserve of rock stars and millionaire businessmen. But for small groups, private air charters make excellent business sense. Jeremy Hewlett, managing director, International Air Charter, outlines the benefits.

Q: Is the use of private jets solely the domain of millionaire business people and international celebrities?

A: No, that is definitely not the case now. For business executives travelling together private jets are not only economic versus first class but also boost productivity by allowing private discussions to take place whilst travelling. A definite no-no on scheduled airlines. In addition, chartering a jet allows customers to use small airports closer to work, or home than the major international hubs, which can add many productive work hours to the day: cutting out car parking issues, queuing for both check-in and security and waiting in overcrowded lounges. Thirty minutes from arrival to boarding is infinitely more attractive to time poor business people.

Q: Figures show that the use of private jets is on the up. What role do you think increases in airport security over recent years have played in the rise?

A: Protecting life, especially where valuable employees, or one's own family is concerned is certainly a key reason for some clients booking private jets. The use of private lounges takes clients away from the general public and from the hiding ground of potential terrorists. These lounges include their own security so clients may also avoid the inevitable queues that build up around screening facilities, a severe test of anyone’s patience at peak times.

Q: Is your company, like other private charter companies, seeing a rise in the number of travellers using your services for leisure rather than business purposes?

A: Many business clients who have experienced private jet charter go on to hire privately as the benefits apply to the family & friends too. In addition we have witnessed an increase in bookings for small groups for special occasions where that extra bit of luxury combined with convenience makes such charters the ultimate memorable experience.

Q: What is your reaction to Alistair Darling's announcement in his pre-budget report that private jets are to be taxed for the first time as part of the government’s new environmental levy which charges flights instead of individuals?

A: Obviously any increase in costs is unwelcome and as we understand it, the UK is the only country in the EU to propose such an initiative. It is difficult to comment on the effect not knowing the tax level proposed. It is admirable that the UK is shouldering its responsibility to protect the environment, but we hope the government considers not only the potential negative effect on the UK Aviation industry, but also how taxes will affect the attractiveness of the UK as a premier business location for those who use private jets as a matter of course, such as the Financial & Banking sector. Jobs could be at risk in aircraft manufacturing, general aviation and related industries plus any knock-on economic effect as mentioned.

Q: Do you believe green taxes on high polluting forms of transportation are the answer to overcoming climate change?

A: Unlike, it seems, American politicians, I do believe in the principle that the polluter should pay. The UK government has a leading role to play in this but must ensure a level playing field internationally.

Q: Given the current concerns about climate change, how can the use of private jets be justified?

A: I think we all have a responsibility to help protect the environment, whether it be to take the kids to school by bus; reduce journeys by better planning or using public transport where appropriate. I believe this subject is influencing the industry through the design of lower emission aircraft; consideration as to the type of aircraft and number of passengers on each flight; as well as the emergence of carbon-offsetting programs.

Q: Do you think private jet operators will suffer as a result of climate change concerns?

A: The forecast for the industry is still very positive at present with the demand for aircraft outstripping the supply by manufacturers.

Q: What role do you believe the private jet industry should play in combating climate change?

A: I have mentioned several opportunities already but I think we will see an increase in the importance of the eco-factors when deciding how and when to charter privately.

Q: How should the government support businesses in their efforts to combat climate change?

A: With respect to private aircraft charter, the government should lobby internationally to reach agreed rules and taxes to protect the environment whilst respecting the right of the individual to decide how they travel.

Q: Some private jet companies have made carbon offsetting compulsory for customers. What carbon offsetting measures have you put in place or do you plan to introduce in the future?

A: We monitor our suppliers and are investigating how such a programme can be effectively introduced.

Q. Can you give any examples of particularly quirky or humorous requests which you've received from customers?

A: We were asked to put a mattress on board an aircraft for the benefit of a competition on the radio. Exactly what for, who knows?! We've also transported dolphins and various other animals through the skies.

Q: How do you see the future for the private jet sector?

A: The future looks very rosy. Not only is the number of high net worth individuals increasing dramatically in developed countries, but the emergence of the super rich in developing countries, plus the lifting of some of the restrictions to travel internationally, is creating growth globally.

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