Elite Traveler Winter 2019

INSPIRE TOP JETS Chartermemberships

The relatively new option of charter memberships evolved from efforts to attract more users to private aviation at an easier, lower-cost entry. For the less-than-frequent flyer, enrolling in a charter-membership program arguably provides the best value for entry; it doesn’t require a large, upfront investment or an ongoing, long-term financial commitment like fractional-share or aircraft-leasing programs. With a charter membership, users purchase a membership and pay annual dues, usually for a minimum of one year. Members enjoy access to buying flight time on the company’s fleet as needed, but only pay for hours used — at a very favorable rate, too.

Clockwise from right An aircraft in Magellan's fleet flying over New York City; Citation Excel XLS interior; Wheels Up aircraft

WHEELS UP

with as little as 24 hours notice via phone or the members-only app. It also offers ground-side services competitive with straight charter companies, including catering, private car service and access to sporting events and concerts through its Wheels Down program. There are three levels of membership: Connect, Core and Business. Core and Business memberships are both tailored to fulfill the needs of frequent travelers, and the company bases its aircraft in various parts of the country for easy access. wheelsup.com

You need an aircraft, but you also want some variety in aircraft choice. Sometimes you need speed, sometimes runway flexibility. And you want none of the hassles of making individual charter bookings. Entrepreneurs Kenny Dichter and Bill Allard had you in mind when they founded Wheels Up in 2013 as a membership company. Wheels Up started with two eight-passenger aircraft models: the Beechcraft King Air 350i twin turboprop and the Cessna Citation Excel/XLS. Today, it gives members access to more than 115 aircraft. Wheels Up guarantees availability