Wheels Up maintains a private fleet of King Air 350i turboprops and Citation Excel/XLS 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 is adding the Citation X to its fleet, in February 2019 it launched a new membership tier, and in June 2019 acquired TMC Jets.
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 onboard 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 it fleet and has contracted GAMA Aviation, Inc. to operate the aircraft on its behalf.
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.
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
Wheels Up News
Wheels Up adds third aircraft category; takes delivery of first three Citation X private jets
Wheels Up raises $117.5 million in equity capital; claims billion dollar Unicorn valuation
NetJets, Wheels Up, Flexjet say there’s a spike in solar eclipse flight activity
Wheels Up targeting 10,000 sticky members by 2020
