Three Continents Connected
JetSmarter is a private jet provider; they have recently launched their new long haul shuttle flight between London and Dubai. This flight also connects with the existing New York to London shuttle; this means a member can fly across 3 continents, from Los Angeles to Dubai, via London — all on JetSmarter routes.
I purchased my JetSmarter membership in the summer of 2016 and it is proving to be one of the best investments I have ever made!
Currently, the membership fee cost $13,500 per year plus a onetime joining fee. Once you are enrolled, you can take full advantage of flying on a private jet as often as you like, between key cities in: North America, Europe and The Middle East. For those who are flying these routes every week, I would say it is a no brainer money saving investment!
My journey started out in London Luton Airport at Harrods Aviation FBO. The FBO is like a business class airline lounge accompanied with good views of the apron. There are the usual snacks and beverages on offer, the same as you would find in any airlines Business Class Lounge.
The beauty of flying in a private jet is that you can arrive as little as 5 minutes before the flight's departure time; you will never have this much flexibility when you are flying commercial.
My boarding pass for my trip to Dubai Al Maktoum Airport (DWC) with flight number (tail number) N721BS.
Boarding the Gulfstream IV
With no lines at security to delay me, I am out on the apron within minutes and ready to board the gorgeous looking golden Gulfstream IV.
We have a dedicated flight attendant serving us food, drinks and generally taking care of our needs.
Before take-off, I asked the pilots whether or not I could join them on the flight deck as an observer. It was not a problem!
We took off on Runway 26. Flight time to Dubai is just 6 hours 45 minutes.
Back in the main cabin, everyone is settled in comfortably and they are ready for an easy and relaxing flight.
Each passenger was handed out a large iPad and JetSmarter branded headset for the inflight entertainment.
I ordered a sandwich and salad. Private jet catering is usually a pre-packaged affair; it cannot compete with airline catering which has dedicated kitchen facilities, it does however allow for passengers to bring their own food, which most passengers did on this flight.
During lunch, I take a moment for myself and dreamily gaze out of those oversized, oval shaped, windows.
After food, the flight attendant suggested that I lay down for a nap. She converted the 3 seater sofa into a full flat-bed!
Flying eastward, the sun is fading out over Turkey....We eventually cruise at 45,000 feet, the standard cruising altitude for a Gulfstream IV. I haven't flown this high since my Supersonic Concorde Flight!
I've met a popular vlogger, Hitham, from Saudi Arabia and a tycoon from India on-board. The networking opportunities on-board The JetSmarter Private Jet is amazing. Talking to strangers in First Class on a commercial flight it is sometimes hard to break the ice, but it is easy on a private jet in the same cabin!
I have some fruit and hot tea before landing.
I once again took up my post as observer before we descended into Dubai.
After a quick taxi to our remote parking stand, the pilots came out to thank each of their passengers at the door.
We were transported by 3 BMW 7 series limos to the terminal. Our flight is handled by ExecuJet in Dubai DWC airport.
Upon arrival, the standard formalities and baggage delivery take place in the waiting room where guests can enjoy a welcome Arabic Coffee.
The whole formality takes around 5 minutes while you relax in the luxury private waiting room. It has to be of the best arrival experiences!
Conclusion
I never thought I could afford to fly on a Gulfstream long haul from London to Dubai!
In many ways it is a very different experience to commercial flying. You can arrive at the airport at your own pace, even just a few minutes before the departure of your flight. You receive the utmost care and attention during the flight; you are made to feel completely relaxed and like you are at home. Whilst on-board you are presented with unrivalled networking opportunities to meet with other creative mind-sets. Within a few minutes of arrival at your destination, you are in a limo heading home or to your hotel. No security lines, no passport queues! It is a whole different ball game compared to flying on a commercial flight. However, the catering standard may not be up to the standards that you might have come to expect. I still love the First Class Multi-Course meal indulgence!
I am delighted by the existence of JetSmarter, they have fulfilled many a person's dream to fly on a Private Jet and in an affordable way. It really is revolutionizing private aviation and is making private jet aviation a reality for the masses.
Sam’s Travel Hacks
