The UK tops the leaderboard in jetting off to European pleasure spots via private planes more than any other nation, reveals new research. Greenpeace, who spearheaded the study, is calling on Whitehall to clamp down on these emissions-heavy flyers to tackle the "climate crisis" which is already showing its teeth through "deadly floods and heatwaves". Focusing on 45 European airfields close to sought-after spots, the report noted a whopping 12,702 out of the 117,965 private flights last year originated from British runways that's a hefty 10.
8%, eclipsing every other country's contribution. Hot on the heels of the UK, France takes the silver with 10.7%, and Italy scoops the bronze at 8.
9%. This examination by T3 Transportation Think Tank, located in Germany, highlighted an uptick in private plane use during the summer season - a signpost that suggests these jets are more for beach towels than boardrooms. Leading the pack for UK private jet departures was the glamorous Nice in the south of France, boasting 2,642 landings and take-offs.
It was closely trailed by Geneva in Switzerland with 1,953 movements; Palma de Mallorca, Spain not far behind at 1,140; followed by Malaga, also in Spain, at 1,015. Opting for a private flight will certainly bruise the wallet compared to a regular commercial flight seat but the perks? They're all about swift security checks, VIP treatment in the sky, and you call the shots on when you want to hit the skies or kiss the tarmac. Last year, private je.