Author Pat Lambrix

Only few generations ago, people traveled the world exclusively by boat. Many of these international and intercontinental charters were (and still are) all inclusive. A ship is able to house a number of unique amenities at a specific level of service. Decks are even designed around the price point of the ticket for passage. It should seem fitting then, that the aviation industry follow suit. 

Thanks to advancements in aviation technology, travel which once took days on a ship now takes only hours in a plane. But as many serious business travelers have experienced, the early 20th century luxury cruises has not continued into the commercial air industry. To adequately reach that level of comfort and sophistication in travel, chartered air services and private business aircraft alike are determined to properly accommodate our clients with luxurious amenities with state of the art cabins in both design and functionality.

As a broker of air charters, my business runs on coordinating numerous services; ground transportation, catering and even assisting with lodging. While a plane may not hold a full five-star kitchen or spa that a ship might, air charter brokers and operators should be well-connected with locations on land that do. Developing relationships with auxiliary and periphery businesses can ensure an executive level experience throughout their travel. In fact, parallel industries are often paired at tradeshows together: luxury cars and motorcycles, high end restaurants and hotels, aircraft and yachts. The customer demographics of these industries share a number of common traits, tastes and expectations. Maintaining a network of like-minded business partners outside the air charter industry will ensure clients needs are met through all aspects of their travel. The yacht charter industry for instance, is much like the air charter industry.

As we look forward to the summer months in the Northern hemisphere, destination travel to the tropics and waterways will increase. Working with partners to offer clients a complete package of air, sea and ground transportation can improve how the client looks at travel. Business this time of year is bustling on the French Riviera and greater Mediterranean, and is certainly yacht-centric for those seeking luxury near the sea. With 70 percent of the globe covered in water, the opportunity for these interaction with yacht charters only increases.

In my career, I’ve gotten to know Peter Piper of Yacht Owners Direct, who works with boat owners, captains and central agents to list their boats available for charter or for sale making it one of the most direct ways to secure a yacht charter or purchase. His business model is not unlike many in the aircraft industry, and is reflective of the luxury and professionalism that our clientele expects. Through partnerships with luxury yacht brokers and other complimentary services, we can gainfully coordinate and work with one another to secure and retain executive clientele, a win -win for everyone!