Wheels Up maintains a private fleet of King Air 350i turboprops, Citation Excel/XLS and Citation X jets, as well as offers access to a global network of charter aircraft for its members through their Flight Desk. The company was founded in 2013 by its CEO Kenny Dichter and veterans of the Marquis Jet Card program and is based in New York City. In 2018, Wheels Up added the Citation X, in February 2019 it launched a new membership tier, and in June 2019 acquired TMC Jets. It now plans to launch a large cabin jet program as well.

Wheels Up Elevator Pitch

For Elevator Pitch we asked jet card sellers to tell you in less than 300 words why you should choose their company.

By Kenny Dichter, CEO and Founder of Wheels Up

“Wheels Up launched in August 2013 with a mission to democratize private aviation, creating a revolutionary, membership-based company that significantly reduces the upfront costs to fly privately while providing unparalleled flexibility, service, and safety. I saw an opportunity for a private aviation business—similar to Uber and the membership models of Netflix and Amazon Prime—that would soar in the growing sharing economy. Today, Wheels Up has more than 4,000 members.

“Wheels Up offers members guaranteed flight availability, with an exclusive fleet of new Beechcraft King Air 350i and Citation Excel/XLS aircraft all equipped with Wi-Fi, call and text capabilities. The King Air 350i has excellent short-field performance, increasing airport options to bring you closer to your final destination, while our Citation Excel/XLS offers a luxurious, spacious environment and a flight range of up to four hours. Our fleet is top-rated in terms of safety and reliability with two pilots on board at all times. Pilots must hold an FAA Airline Transport Pilot license (the highest available) and an FAA First-Class Medical Certificate and have thousands of hours of experience.

“We also offer world-class programming for our members, including a cutting-edge Wheels Up mobile app, where users have the ability to seamlessly book flights, manage their accounts, and participate in ride-share opportunities; Hot Flights, a vast selection of one-way “empty leg” flights that are posted daily to the app and updated in real-time; the Wheels Down program, a roster of exclusive members-only events and experiences throughout the year at the Super Bowl, Masters Tournament and Art Basel, among others; and partnerships with brands such as Peloton, Canyon Ranch, Ermenegildo Zegna, Inspirato and many more.

“I invite you to become a Wheels Up member and experience the most intelligent and coveted way to fly private.”

Wheels Up Executive Overview

When was Wheels Up founded?
2013

Who owns Wheels Up?
Privately held

Who is the CEO of Wheels Up?
Kenny Dichter

How are Wheels Up aircraft sourced?
Wheels Up owns its fleet and has contracted GAMA Aviation, Inc. to operate the aircraft on its behalf. Additional programs use private jets from vetted operators. It also owns light jet operator TMC Jets.

What are Wheels Up’s initiation and membership fees?
The first-year initiation fee for families and individuals is $17,500. Renewal is $8,500. Wheels Up also has corporate programs. Its Connect program targets flight-sharing and is priced at $2,950.

What is Wheels Up’s entry-level program?
Wheels Up offers pay-as-you-go programs

Does Wheels Up provide guaranteed availability?
Yes, with limited exceptions based on program level

Is the hourly rate guaranteed?
Yes

Can jet card holders/members use multiple aircraft at the same time?
Yes, not guaranteed

What is the company website?
https://wheelsup.com/

Where is Wheels Up’s headquarters?
New York, NY