As the world navigates the post-pandemic era, arguably no industry is ripe for revolution more than aviation. With the majority of flights having been completely grounded due to COVID in 2020-2021, most airlines were forced to borrow vast sums of money to stay afloat, causing the industry to amass over $180 million in debt. Now, as the industry begins to recoup its losses, the emergence of several start-ups in the travel sector indicate an interesting shift towards private aviation.
One such London-based startup that is gaining tail-wind is JetHustle. JetHustle uses innovative technology to bridge the gap between commercial and private aviation. The concept is a flight comparison platform with a luxury twist. As CEO Sam Farshian explains, "when a flight search is executed online, JetHustle not only cross checks major airlines for competitive rates but also searches for available private jets with empty seats - think Skyscanner or Expedia on steroids!"
Statistically, air travel is the safest mode of transportation, but the benefits of flying private are unmistakable, particularly given the residual apprehension about hygiene and safety lingering in the minds of many would-be travellers in the light of the pandemic. Private jet travellers move through VIP channels in airport terminals with no queues and an estimated 95% less touchpoints than commercial passengers. Moreover, they benefit from less invasive security, exclusive cabin space and of course, far less exposure to other passengers. Not to mention the enviable comfort and luxury that has previously only been available to the rich and famous.
JetHustle offers users access to hundreds of empty private jet seats operating from UK airports to over 20 sunny European destinations, with plans to expand further afield. At the time of this writing, JetHustle’s Instagram account advertises private jet seats from Malaga to Ibiza for 699 euros.
Although the platform is still in its Beta testing phase, its full scale take-off is imminent and the response of users has been overwhelmingly positive. One such user is serious industry player and airline owner Lars Theusen, who decided to invest in JetHustle after flying private to Denmark using the platform. Theusen comments, "Empty seats have always been the main challenge to the aviation industry. JetHustle minimises this issue on private jets to create a win-win for both the customer and the aircraft owner."
With general conversation focusing on lowering carbon footprint across industries, JetHustle intends to integrate a carbon offsetting option into the platform, in line with the global movement towards sustainability.
To find out how to fly private for a commercial price tag, call +44 0208 064 1000 or visit www.jethustle.com