March 15, 2024
NetJets Europe is making a dramatic move in the jet card segment by starting a pay-as-you-go membership. For an annual fee of €8,500, plus local VAT, you get access to its fleet with fixed one-way rates. Previously, the entry-level program in Europe for the world’s largest private jet operator was a 25-hour jet card. That requires a deposit of over $150,000.
The new NetJets Europe Membership Programme launched in February. The timing came weeks after rival Flexjet said it had moved forward with the launch of its COVID-delayed European expansion. Flexjet Europe last month said it would also add a 25-hour jet card. PrivateFly, a sister company, launched a 25-hour jet card last summer.
Carsten Michaelis, marketing director for NetJets Europe, says the idea was driven by increased demand due to uncertainty around commercial flights’ future.
“The NetJets Europe Membership Programme is the ideal solution for individuals with occasional travel needs who want to experience a taste of NetJets without committing to pre-purchasing flight hours in advance. Members pay an annual membership fee of €8,500, plus local VAT, to fly at an hourly pre-defined rate, and whenever they are ready to travel, only pay for the hours they use,” he tells Private Jet Card Comparisons.
Pay-as-you-go flights are booked and paid for at least 24 hours in advance during non-peak periods. On peak days, booking lead time extends to 120 hours. Guaranteed access is provided 365 days a year on the Cessna Citation XLS and Dassault Falcon 2000 EX. Members can fly within the NetJets Primary Operational Area (POA). Coverage includes more than 800 airports in Europe, without paying any positioning fees.
“Members feel reassured knowing they have access to the largest and most diverse fleet in private aviation, providing the highest degrees of reliability and flexibility. With safety remaining NetJets’ top priority for more than 55 years, members feel protected when traveling with their families, providing total peace of mind,” Michaelis says.
NetJets Europe currently has three jet card programs sold on the Phenom 300, Citation Latitude, and a large-cabin option. The company doesn’t disclose pricing. However, the current Phenom 300 price is believed to be 169,000 euros for 25 hours.
Michaelis says customers also want one-way rates and inclusive pricing. “Unlike charter flights which often include additional costs such as positioning fees, daily minimums, hangar, and airport fees, the NetJets Europe Membership Programme provides members with a predictable cost and guaranteed access even during peak travel periods,” he added.
NetJets has also spent more than $16 million on its global response to COVID-19. This ongoing investment includes the development of a multi-tiered aircraft cleaning regime called The NetJets Clean.
There are “no immediate plans” to launch a pay-as-you-go option in the U.S., he says.
