A survey from Private Jet Card Comparisons indicates that 51 percent of business aircraft users plan to fly more this year, while 41 percent said they expect to fly about the same amount as last year. Only 5 percent of the 452 respondents indicated they would fly less this year.
Most cited the convenience of private flying, poor airline service, connectivity, and Covid concerns as reasons to keep flying privately. "Private aviation has proven its value to both new and existing customers. It's sticky, and there are no signs demand is letting up," said Private Jet Card Comparisons founder Doug Gollan.
However, supply chain issues, labor shortages, and high demand has led to delays and other service issues. In fact, 44 percent of respondents said they had suffered delays or cancelations in the past six months; 79 percent cited late flights; 41 percent reported providers changed the departure time after booking; and 30 percent said providers couldn’t accommodate their requested departure time.
Meanwhile, the survey found that program changes stemming from the pandemic-driven demand for private aircraft transportation has affected customer loyalty, with 43 percent of jet card customers saying they are considering different options due to these changes. Typically, jet card and membership programs have renewal rates exceeding 90 percent, but only 54 percent of respondents plan to renew with their current provider this year.