Private Jet Demand Surges Amid Government Shutdown Flight Cuts

WASHINGTON — Demand for private jet flights is climbing as significant reductions in U.S. commercial flights take effect during the ongoing government shutdown.

The disruptions started after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandated airlines cut 4% of their scheduled flights at 40 major U.S. airports due to staffing shortages in air traffic control. The cuts are set to increase to 10% within days. The shutdown, which began on Oct. 1, has led to more than 17,000 flight delays over a recent weekend, according to FlightAware.

Flexjet, a private jet charter and fractional ownership company, reported a 42% increase in revenue hours in the first week of November compared to the same week last year. Flexjet Global CEO Andrew Collins said, “Our aircraft owners and lease holders are using their aircraft more. This spike in usage began in October and continues.”

Collins noted a notable rise in last-minute bookings among fractional aircraft leaseholders, often made within a 10-hour notice. The company’s FXAIR charter business also saw a 56% increase in revenue hours for October compared to the previous year.

Travelers across the country are seeking alternatives to commercial airlines. Rental company Avis reported an upsurge in one-way rentals as frustrated passengers look for quick solutions amid the chaos.

In response to the shutdown-induced demand, the FAA announced it plans to restrict private jet traffic at 12 major U.S. airports, though they will not impose the same rigid cuts required of commercial airlines. Many private jets service less trafficked airports, allowing them to circumvent some of the government flight limitations.

The situation is exacerbated by air traffic controllers, who have not received pay during the shutdown and are facing increased absenteeism and job stress. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said continued staffing issues would require further reductions in flights.

Many in the private aviation sector, like CEO of FlyExclusive Jim Segrave, expressed concern over the burgeoning frustrations faced by travelers. “All of this has real negative consequences for millions of Americans, and it’s 100% unnecessary and avoidable,” said Todd Walker, who missed a significant family event due to flight cancellations.

As the travel season approaches, many anticipate a more demanding market for private aviation. Flexjet and other providers are ramping up preparations to accommodate the increasing number of consumers looking to fly privately.