The rise of private jet travel between the US and EMEA
Key destinations, trends, and future projections are detailed.
By Melissa Lucas Thomas
Contributing Writer
Hospitality, hospitality, hospitality! Iconic FBO founders Kemmons Wilson and the Mary Kay Cosmetics company, from Wilson Air Center (WAC) and Million Air, respectively, were decades ahead of the industry when they established their hospitality-mindset FBO brands in the 1980s. They have enjoyed the success of winning top FBO recognition constantly – all while the global FBO industry focused solely on winning customers on the ramp with fuel prices and pinching pennies on facilities, amenities, and their human resources.
The FBO industry has increasingly focused on a hospitality mindset in recent years, benefiting both pilots and passengers. In fact, it was the world’s largest FBO chain who pressed a gigantic reset button in March 2024 and rebranded to Signature Aviation. It is a tall order given the vast number of FBOs in their global network, which the company is improving continuously by adding resources to both staffing and facilities.
Across the pond, UK based Gama Aviation understands the assignment and is raising the bar as it builds and relocates later this year to its brand new flagship Middle East regional headquarters and FBO at SHJ (Sharjah, UAE) located just minutes from Business Bay, the main business district of Dubai. Gama Aviation SHJ will be an exclusive customer and pilot experience where passengers will have access for vehicles to drive ramp-side.
Business aircraft ops at SHJ have expedited taxi time, so operators can be airborne in as little as 2 minutes. The new FBO will boast spaces and amenities found in luxury resorts, such as a bespoke full-service bar, restaurant, specialty cofee and tea bars, handmade chocolates, and specialty meals for crew members.
Private jet travel between the US and Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) has experienced notable fluctuations over the past 2 years. In this article, we’ll explore the most frequent city pairs, analyze travel volume trends from 2023 and 2024, and project expectations for the rest of 2025. We’ll also highlight premier FBOs and onboard amenities and services most valued by private jet travelers.
One trend that has not changed since 2020 is the continuous growth of private jet leisure travel. Savvy passengers in this segment want their FBO and onboard aircraft hospitality experience to match that of the luxury resorts and destinations they visit.
We also see a trend in FBOs and business aircraft operators opening multi-regional corporate headquarters facilities to be physically present is specific regions, engaging with affluence and poised on the business scene. Popular markets are New York, London, and Dubai.
Top US, Europe, and EMEA destinations
Private jet travel routes between the US and EMEA have revolved around major financial, cultural, and leisure hubs. The city pairs represented in Box 1 were the most frequent routes traveled by business jet during 2023 and 2024.
In Europe, LBG (Paris–Le Bourget, France) and LTN (Luton, London, UK) remain the top arrival airports. London’s private jet market has been of heightened global focus for the past few years as global operators zero in on gaining share of the premier private jet travel desination. DXB (Dubai, UAE) and RUH (Riyadh Saudi Arabia) lead as the most frequented Middle Eastern destinations.
TEB (Teterboro NJ) and VNY (Van Nuys CA) are dominant departure hubs in the US. Meanwhile, MIA (Intl, Miami FL) and PBI (West Palm Beach FL) continue to gain ground as business and financial hubs.
Private jet travel volume
In 2023, there was a 12% increase in private jet travel between the US and EMEA, compared to 2022. Business travel volume recovered significantly after the Covid-19 pandemic restrictions were lifted, with finance and tech executives as major contributors. Leisure travel to the French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, and Ibiza also surged.
In 2024 saw an estimated 7–8% increase in overall private jet travel. The Middle East experienced the largest spike in demand, with DXB and RUH witnessing over 15% growth in private jet arrivals. Europe, while still popular, showed signs of plateauing, with a 5% increase, partly due to economic uncertainties and rising operational costs.
Three main factors driving growth are the rising ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs) population in the US, increased demand for flexibility and privacy during international travel, and the expansion of private jet membership programs offering transatlantic routes.
Projections for 2025
The outlook is good overall. Experts forecast a continued rise in private jet travel between the US and EMEA. Here are 3 leading indicators of note – increased business travel, growth in the luxury travel segment, and investment in new luxury terminals and FBOs. With companies expanding their EMEA operations, frequent executive travel could sustain demand and spur business travel growth.
The luxury travel market and investment into exclusive vacation destinations such as Ibiza, Mykonos, and Dubai will continue to attract private aircraft flyers and impact pirate jet passenger expectations. Airports are investing in new, improved, and expanded infrastructure, focusing on better traveler experiences and facilities. Airports like LTN and LBG are expanding private jet facilities as well, making room for additional operational capacity.
Private jet travelers increasingly expect bespoke services and elevated luxury amenities. What is good for the passenger is also good for the crew, and giving equal importance to both as valued customers is for the savvy, hospitality-minded, award-winning FBOs and operators.
Taking into consideration the growing demand for carbon offset programs and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), operators are investing in eco-friendly aircraft models to reduce emissions.
Expected travel experience
Passengers expect a seamless blend of comfort, luxury, and convenience throughout their journey. Their inflight experience should include spacious cabins with customized seating, including fully reclining seats and lie-flat beds, designed with ergonomic features to ensure optimal relaxation.
Gourmet dining further elevates the experience, offering Michelin-star chef-prepared meals paired with extensive wine lists that cater to even the most refined tastes. In addition to this, modern flights are equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and satellite phones, allowing for uninterrupted business operations, ensuring passengers stay connected no matter where they are.
For entertainment, large-screen TVs with streaming services and noise-canceling headphones provide endless options to relax and unwind. And rounding off the experience, spa and wellness features, including humidity control, aromatherapy, and mood lighting, are thoughtfully integrated into the cabin, creating a soothing atmosphere for ultimate comfort throughout the flight.
On the ground, travelers demand a range of exclusive services that ensure a smooth and effortless journey from start to finish. Luxury ground transportation is provided with chauffeur services in high-end vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and stylish transfer to and from the aircraft.
Upon arrival, expedited customs and immigration processes offer dedicated clearance lanes, allowing for quick and hassle-free entry, while efficient baggage handling ensures that belongings are managed swiftly. To further enhance the experience, VIP lounges offer an oasis of relaxation, with exclusive terminals featuring private check-in counters and tranquil spaces to unwind before departure or after arrival. Every detail is carefully curated to make the entire travel experience as seamless and luxurious as possible.
Closing remarks
Private jet travel between the US and EMEA continues to thrive, with key routes connecting financial and leisure hubs. While 2023 saw substantial growth and 2024 kept a steady pace, projections for 2025 and beyond call for further expansion. As discerning travelers seek personalized services and premium experiences, FBOs and operators alike will need to focus on enhancing onboard offerings and offering sustainable solutions to meet evolving expectations.