Relocations by private jet are taking off, says PrivateFly

• The private jet booking service is reporting an increase in private flights for those moving job abroad
• Brexit likely to fuel further demand
• Clients attracted by the ability to take their pets & valuables in the cabin

Relocations by private jet are on the rise, according to PrivateFly. The private jet booking service says it saw an increase in demand from clients jetting off to a new life in a different country last year. And, with the implications of Brexit set to create further potential movement of individuals and corporate HQs, it expects even more demand in the months ahead.

The company says one of the major benefits of private flights for relocations is the ability for pets and owners to travel together in the cabin, rather than the animal being crated in the hold of an airliner. Typical costs for a one-way private jet charter from London to other major European cities such as Paris, Barcelona or Geneva start from £12,000 - £16,000 for an 8-seater Citation XLS; or £18,000 - £25,000 in a larger jet such as a Legacy 600, which has a bigger luggage capacity. And in some cases, the employer is footing the bill.

Carol Cork, marketing director of PrivateFly comments: “Relocation flights are very much a growing sub-sector in our business and last year we arranged more than ever before, both in and out of the UK.

“While most possessions can go by cargo, when it comes to such a big life change, people are looking for the least stressful way to transport themselves and their families – including the family pet.

“In a private jet, your pet can travel in the cabin with you, greatly reducing stress and health risks. Clients also enjoy being able to keep a tight hold of their most precious possessions in transit, rather than shipping them, such as photos, documents, art or jewellery.

“One unusual flight we arranged was for a couple relocating from London to Alicante in Spain. As big animal-lovers, they were travelling with two dogs, two cats, and six pet birds. It took some planning, (and the aircraft was a little noisy at times!) but it eased the moving process enormously for them all.

“Many clients pay for relocation flight themselves, but for some senior executives, a one-way private flight can be negotiated as part of their relocation package. It’s a compelling benefit for a company to offer, and one that recognises the upheaval involved in moving children, pets and possessions to a new part of the world. Some companies are prepared to make such an investment, given the value they expect a key person to add to the business.”