From first class to private jets: Why some UAE flyers now opt for charter flights

From first class to private jets: Why some UAE flyers now opt for charter flights

Remember when private jets were the only option to cross borders at one point during the Covid era? Now, although commercial flights have returned to their usual operations, some of those who travelled via jets no longer returned to their first- and business-class cabins — instead, charters have become their way of flying, experts have said.

Such a trend — combined with the major events happening in the region and the relaxation of Covid restrictions around the world — has led to a surge in current demand for charter flights, according to experts who attended this year's Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (Mebaa) show in Dubai.

There are a number of factors behind first-class passengers' shift to private jets — among them are special amenities and technologies that help travellers get work done even in mid-air.

“Connectivity has become a basic requirement for business aviation as a means for improving productivity. Honeywell’s JetWave satellite communications system allows business aviation passengers to connect, stay connected, and optimise the connectivity experience via Inmarsat Aviation’s GX Ka-band network," said Noora Belsalah, project director at Royal Jet, which operates a fleet of 13 private aircraft.

"Passengers will be able to access high-speed Internet to carry