First class is considered a luxurious flying option but when it comes to the overall flight experience, first class pales in comparison to private aviation. Albeit more pleasant than coach, first class still comes with the same time constraints, baggage issues, lack of personalized service, and overall hassle as any other commercial travel. Time is of the utmost importance to busy executives and their families and this is a place where fractional ownership really shines. At Airshare, our clients pull up directly to their aircraft just a few minutes before departure. They have access to ten times the number of airports as commercial airlines and the freedom to fly unlimited hours. These conveniences result in a minimally interrupted workday when traveling and more time at your vacation destination, but flying privately offers so much more than just time added back into your day.
All of our pilots are FAA type-rated in the aircraft they fly and twice a year they train in state-of-the-art full-motion simulators. Our clients can sit back and relax during their flight, however when they need to work, the safety of information is critical. Confidential company topics can not be openly discussed on a crowded commercial flight. On a private aircraft, the freedom to use a laptop without sensitive documents being seen by unwanted parties means your workday doesn’t have to be put on hold. Additionally, limiting exposure from other travelers is a major health consideration every year during the flu season and now, more than ever, with COVID. As a fractional jet customer, you are in control of who is on your aircraft and with whom you come in contact.
The difference between “Airshare class” and first class might be most obvious in the relationships that are fostered between the pilots and clients. Our pilots not only have all of the technical experience needed, they are experts in customer service because they fully embody our mission, vision, and values. Pilots are a key part of the experience and ours take pride in having strong personal relationships with their customers. As hosts to their passengers, they make sure the experience is a full-service one and they are always available via direct contact in the case of any changes or requests while traveling. It’s this personal touch that Andy Reid, Coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, appreciates, “I just love the fact of the hospitality of the pilots. There is a personal relationship that you develop over time with them. Everything is taken care of and you feel safe.”
Airshare is a step above first class because each experience is personalized to your specific needs for each specific trip. Commercial pilots get on board and go to the left while passengers go to the right and there is very little interaction between them. At Airshare our pilots are with you from beginning to end. They know and care about our customers and their children. They make the experience a fun one for everyone involved. If desired, they have a cocktail ready and waiting for you and they often hold themed celebrations for birthdays and anniversaries on the aircraft. They have even put together a surprise Easter egg hunt and Cinco de Mayo party with food and beverages. When a family situation arises they are compassionate and discreet. They work above and beyond to facilitate the tightest of needs or schedule requests. Robert Phillips, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Crestwood Equity Partners LP explains what Airshare does best, “The professionalism of the staff is an important part of the overall experience. They are not only pilots, they are there to make sure the entire experience is a good one.”
