Global jet card and charter operator VistaJet said it has seen a 104% increase in the number of animals flown in the past two years.
As previously reported by Private Jet Card Comparisons, VistaJet today previewed a new program that provides VIP services for pets.
It is the latest in a series of announcements over the past year with specialized programs for children, fine dining and oenophiles. VistaJet, which operates super midsize, large cabin and ultra-long-range Bombardier private jets is the only jet card program with a global primary service area that provides one-way rates without ferry fees.
In formally announcing the program, it cited research that showed 25% of its customers regularly fly with pets, including a 104% increase in the number of animals flown during the past two years.
There was a 47% increase in the number of dogs flying onboard VistaJet in 2018 against the previous year;
VistaJet has been aggressively expanding into the U.S. market. Last year parent company Vista Global purchased XOJET, which operates 44 super midsize jets and has a $100 million charter and jet card brokerage business. In the release, VistaJet noted 95% of American animal owners say their pets have become increasingly integrated into our lives.
What’s more, VistaJet says 75% of owners distrust commercial airlines to safely care for their pets, making the journey stressful for both animal and human.
VistaPet has been designed in collaboration with experienced veterinary practitioners, groomers, dieticians and coaches to respond to the needs and challenges faced when traveling with animals.
Since there are no standard rules for the transport of pets around the globe VistaJet’s customer service team advises passengers on the regulations that apply to their flights and destinations when traveling with pets, including details for vaccinations, microchips, certificates and permits.
Sometimes, flying with a scared pet can transform a perfect flight into a very long one. To ensure all passengers enjoy their flight, VistaJet can arrange fear of flying courses for dogs, in partnership with The Dog House. The four-week course desensitizes pets to what they could experience during a flight – the smell of fuel, the sounds of jet engines, cabin air pressure and the movements of air turbulence.
On board every flight, passengers will receive a VistaPet Pochette – a travel bag containing a collection of items to take care of pets during and after a flight.
Bio-organic pet food from Rockster will provide pets with high-quality nutrients in the air or on arrival. The flavorful selection of Random Rewards treats, created by Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux, is a unique mixture of dog training treats.
Kibble Pet’s Travel Care Kit includes water-free shampoos and soothing wipes for salon quality fur care – a perfect way to help pets relax on board. Rope toys by Furzu will also keep dogs entertained throughout the flight.
Following advice from Clinical Veterinarian, Dr. Bruce Fogle, VistaJet has developed a balanced menu to keep members’ pets hydrated and healthy. VistaJet cabin hostesses (who are aboard all flights) can also offer natural flower essences to mix with pets’ drinking water to aid relaxation during the flight.
VistaJet said, while flying regulations require that animals are kept on leash or in a travel cage for take-off and landing, during flight pets can relax by their owner’s side on a handmade Labbvenn sleep mat. A full cabin re-clean is included as standard after every pet flight. Typical charges range from $250 to $500.
To help entire trips be enjoyable, VistaJet has selected a collection of pet-friendly facilities and partners all around the globe – whether Members require a pet hotel in London, a pet salon in New York or a photography session to capture moments with pets around the world, VistaJet will help. The team can also assist in finding pet walkers and trainers, or suggest unforgettable experiences, including pet yoga, rafting and surfing.
VistaJet’s jet card program, which it refers to as The Program, starts at 50 hours per years and is customized with hourly rates ranging from $12,000 to $18,000.