Story ID: 373
From Business to Pets: L’Voyage’s Journey
By: Chen Chuanren
Caption: The market is changing, with passengers traveling for leisure activities as well as business, and charter broker L'Voyage aims to fill that niche as well.
Word Count: 443
Charter company L’Voyage (Booth B71) is hoping to expand its service offerings beyond business travel, just as founder and chairperson Diana Chou celebrates her 20th anniversary in business aviation. “In the past, the charter business was mainly used for business travelers for business meetings. Nowadays, there are more travelers flying with private jets for leisure travel, events, and celebrations of family events," said Chou. "We notice that travelers have started putting more emphasis on their time and experience. We are planning to offer pet travel and medical travel packages to our clients.”

Chou explained that owners who wish to bring their pets onboard a private jet have to get valid health certificates for their pets with import/export permits endorsed by their destination. To get this “passport,” pets have to be vaccinated and undergo antibody testing. This process can take several months. L’Voyage is working with reputable dog trainers who are experienced in handling pets flight "to provide the best pet travel experience to our clients,” she said.

The company's clients are assisted by a dedicated manager to design the most suitable chartering solution. These bespoke charters could include spiritual travels, private access to Necker Island, spending an evening with tenor Andrea Bocelli, and attendance at the Met Gala, according to Chou.

"As the leading global charter specialist headquartered in Asia-Pacific, we are happy to collaborate with European operators and brokers. With connections with a network of APAC [Asia-Pacific] operators and clients, as well as a deep understanding of the environment and culture of greater China, L’Voyage serves as a gateway for European operators and brokers for entering the APAC market,” Chou said. “Meanwhile, we are exploring different forms of collaborations and partnerships with European operators, brokers, and handlers to deliver seamless service to our clients in their trips to Europe.”  

Within Europe, Chou said that Milan, London, Paris, and Rome are the popular European cities for its local clients, while from Europe its clientele is usually business travelers who prefer to use its charter broker services. Currently, European clients account for 40 percent of travelers within L'Voyage's B2B portfolio.

Chou started Dragon General Aviation (DGA) two decades ago and set up L’Voyage in 2013 and Jet 8 in 2018. The group will be publishing a 20th anniversary booklet, “Over Hong Kong,” featuring the development of the general aviation industry in Hong Kong and DGA during the past two decades.

This week at EBACE, L’Voyage is showcasing its charter brokering and concierge services, along with sister company, Jet 8, which is highlighting its aircraft acquisition and advisory service.