Saturday, January 4, 2025 Qatar Airways reported a 26% surge in revenue for its private-jet division last year, highlighting strong and sustained demand for its premium offering as wealthier families and corporate groups increasingly opt for the convenience and flexibility of smaller aircraft. During the pandemic, private jets became highly sought after as affluent travelers prioritized isolation from crowded spaces. However, this surge in demand has gradually declined in recent years with the return of regular commercial flight operations.
Qatar Airways is exploring the possibility of obtaining an air operator certificate in Europe to enhance its services across the continent, according to Antinori. The airline’s private jet charters are particularly popular on routes to leisure destinations like the Maldives and Seychelles, as well as key business hubs such as London and New York, the company reports. The demand for group travel has surged post-pandemic, with most bookings now originating from families or corporate groups instead of solo travelers, the airline noted.
Other regional carriers also provide private jet services, including Saudi Arabia’s national airline Saudia and Riyadh-based budget carrier Flynas. Additionally, Dubai’s Emirates operates a single Airbus SE corporate jet, while Lebanon’s Middle East Airlines offers two Embraer Legacy 500 aircraft for charter services..
