Posted inCOVID-19

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts pushes private jet venture in wake of pandemic

Four Seasons and its partners predict a high demand for private aviation as customers look for 'safer and more spacious forms of travel' amid the COVID-19 pandemic

Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts pushes private jet venture in wake of pandemic

Luxury hospitality company Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts has high hopes for its private jet venture following an increase in demand for chartered flights and corporate aircraft in the wake of the pandemic.

Four Seasons recently announced its itineraries for 2021 and 2022 as its new Airbus A321LR private jet prepares to take flight this year.

The aircraft, which is part of Airbus NEO family, will offer passengers an alternative form of air travel to locations in Africa, Europe, Asia and America.

In an interview with Aviation Business, Shelley Cline, President of TCS World Travel, the tour operator that wet leases the aircraft on behalf of Four Seasons, said: “In general, we see the demand for private jet travel growing in the wake of the pandemic. 

“In these unprecedented times, it is clear that the benefits of travelling by private jet have made this mode of travel even more desirable.

“Fewer people per plane, a more controlled environment, smaller airports, private or expedited customs and immigration, and the ability to make changes and pivot up to the last minute are all hallmarks of traveling by private jet and are now more important than ever.”

Cline wasn’t the only one who thinks there will be a change in customers’ attitudes as the coronavirus pandemic leads more people to seek safer and more spacious forms of travel.

Christian Clerc, President of Global Operations at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, said: “Today’s travellers are choosing brands they trust to place a priority on health and safety while still offering the highest quality product.

“Many of our trips consistently sell out, often with repeat guests, and as travellers look ahead to the future, we expect to see the same level of interest in our 2022 itineraries.”

Titan Airways is the aircraft operator for Four Seasons’ private jet venture, whilst TCS World Travel is the tour operator that wet leases the aircraft from Titan Airways and operates the trip in partnership with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

Although Four Seasons does not own the aircraft directly, Cline said it was heavily involved in its design.

“Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts was involved from day one in the design of the aircraft, overseeing every design detail of the cabin from the social area placement and orientation to all design components and aesthetics, including seating, carpeting, sidewall aesthetic, interior and exterior paint colors, lavatory finishes, mood lighting and exterior decaling.

“No external consultants were involved. Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts worked directly with each supplier in conjunction with TCS World Travel and Airbus Corporate Jets over the course of three years to design the cabin. Every year we develop both our flagship and new itineraries for the year.

“These itineraries are scheduled based on best weather, ideal time to travel, and other variables that are decided on an annual basis. When the jet is not being used for one of these fixed itineraries, then it can become available for outside charter.”

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