The COVID-19 crisis has disrupted various industries across the world. The aviation industry is no exception. Think of the travel restrictions imposed by the governments of different countries at the onset of the pandemic. Consider the canceled commercial flights and their repercussions to flyers.
But if anything, the pandemic has brought something positive to the table of the aviation sector. It has paved the way for pilot entrepreneurs to launch their private aviation businesses and offer personal jet flight services.
Many wealthy clients such as business executives, famous personalities, and even ordinary frequent flyers have hired these services. Even if authorities have already lifted the travel restrictions in different parts of the world, these individuals have seen the benefits of the private aviation sector.
As such, it’s a good idea to start your private aviation business during this pandemic. However, there are a few considerations to make. That said, here are vital factors to consider:
1. The aviation market in your region
Before taking the plunge, you have to study the aviation industry. On a more specific note, check if private aviation is thriving in your region. Also, assess if there’s a need for constant flight services in your area. It takes research and due diligence to evaluate if your target market needs private jet services. You even need to survey to determine your business decision. If the facts and figures look promising, go ahead and launch your business.
2. Target clientele
In line with studying your industry and the market in your region, you have to be particular with your target clientele. When conducting research and surveys, check to see if wealthy individuals, business tycoons, and frequent flyers need private flight services. Assess if they will continue to take such services even after the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are assured of having plenty of clients, consider taking the plunge into starting your business.
3. Your aircraft and its performance
Of course, your private aviation business won’t be feasible if you don’t own or rent an aircraft. Check to see if you need one or a few other jets to keep your business up and to fly. But more than just the aircraft itself, you must ensure its utmost safety and overall efficiency. After all, your aircraft performance will determine the overall success of your private aviation business.
4. Team of pilots
As a pilot yourself, you may want to take charge of the private flight. However, you may need to have some pilots working under your team. Of course, you want to make sure that your hired employees are licensed pilots. Ensure that they have gone to a flight school, undergone the necessary flight training, completed their flight hours, and earned their certification. Ultimately, you want to have the best team of pilots to ensure the success of your private aviation business.
5. Capital and budget
When launching a business, finance is the most crucial factor to consider. You need to have a capital outlay to cover the initial costs and all other miscellaneous expenses. These include your aircraft purchase or rental and the costs of aviation supplies, tools and equipment, and other resources. Some have even gone as far as applying for a business loan. Before you can have a return on investment (ROI), you need to shell out a considerable amount of money first. Ultimately, the money you put out for your aviation business will pay off in the long run.
6. Digital marketing campaigns
Once you have everything in place, one of the most crucial parts of launching your private aviation business is marketing. Fret not, as you can resort to digital marketing campaigns. First off, you’ll need to create a business website to promote your private flight services. However, make sure to implement search engine optimization (SEO) for your online visibility and pay-per-click (PPC) advertising for your website traffic. Also, resort to email marketing to promote your flight services to the target clientele. Lastly, you can even use social media to reach out to your clients, engage with them, offer your services, and build an online community of loyal supporters.
At this point, you now know what factors to consider for launching your private aviation business. Be sure to consider those variables mentioned in this blog post, from the aviation market in your region to your capital and budget to digital marketing campaigns. With all these in mind, you’ll be able to launch a successful business and offer private jet services to a select clientele.
