VistaJet, a subsidiary of Vista Global Holdings, which also owns U.S.-based XO (a combination of XOJET and JetSmarter), says business remains strong as it takes steps to enhance the safety of both customers and flight crews.
VistaJet says figures from January 2020 through today highlight that the total number of flights increased by a further 16% year-over-year.
More importantly, it continues to see strong demand across all regions.
The U.S. registered the greatest number of flights during the first two months of the year. America made up 23% of global flights. Despite the deep impact of the virus spreading across Asia, demand remains stable at 11%, the operator says.
To safeguard passengers and crew, VisatJet has taken additional steps along with its partners to further strengthen safety and security procedures every day.
Dedicated Flight Approval and Coordination teams are working 24/7 to assess and approve any booking and change requests from a technical, safety and security standpoint.
To help reduce the spread of the virus, VistaJet works with leading experts. They include Control Risks and Osprey for security and safety advice using both human and AI-driven intelligence.
MedAire provides medical support on the ground and in the air.
All crews are checked for signs of the virus twice a day. Each VistaJet aircraft is sanitized after every flight.
As a precautionary measure, should authorities determine that a COVID-19 carrier traveled on a VistaJet aircraft, that tail and crew will be temporarily withdrawn from use.
VistaJet says, for upcoming bookings, passengers may be required to complete additional travel documents and health certificates. Those who have recently traveled to high-risk locations may have their temperature tested prior to boarding.
Thomas Flohr, VistaJet’s and Vista Global’s Founder and Chairman, said in a prepared statement, “As the events of the last few months show, 2020 is not set to be business as usual. I have no doubt that the strong increase recorded over the past 10 weeks includes fliers looking for safer and cleaner alternatives to commercial flying.”
He added, “Above all else, the maximum safety and wellbeing of our passengers and crew is my utmost priority. The ever-changing developments associated with the coronavirus have guided us to find intelligent and innovative ways to step up to the challenge.”
Recapping 2019 results, VistaJet says the opening of a dedicated Middle East office drove the region to its largest growth. Numbers for flights, passengers and new clients joining the VistaJet Program — surging by 24%, 35%, and 26% respectively.
The UAE registered the majority of flights in the region. It saw a 21% increase in flights, trailing only by Saudi for regional flights, which experienced a 41% growth.
Last year, rivals NetJets and Air Partner both announced the opening of Dubai offices.
VistaJet’s Program recorded a rise of 24% in the number of memberships in the market. Asia’s membership grew by 6%, with China, India, and Singapore leading the charge.
Europe memberships recorded an 11% growth in flight hours against 2018 figures. Members in the market by jumped by 23%.
The UK alone accounted for 24% of its flights in the European region. VistaJet says those results show despite political uncertainties, the country continues to be a focus for global and regional business.
