The ultra-wealthy in New York are utilizing private jets akin to taxis, as flights from Manhattan to nearby holiday destinations such as Nantucket have seen a significant increase, according to an aviation specialist.
Ricky Sitomer, the founder of Star Jets International, informed ChinPao that they have observed a surge of approximately 35 percent in the demand for trips under 300 miles over the last three years.
‘The private jet company’s boss declared, “We can offer any aircraft at any moment and location.”’
We operate approximately 1,500 aircraft globally that can utilize over 5,000 airfields. Customers can secure an airplane with just two hours’ advance notice.
Sitomer’s regular short-distance travelers include ‘celebrities, athletes, real estate professionals, and high-ranking executives,’ such as hedge fund managers and prominent figures from the cryptocurrency world.
Sitomer mentioned that popular excursions consist of ‘helicopter rides and C-liner journeys to the
The Hamptons, Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, and Toronto.
He estimates that these kinds of trips have rocketed in demand by 35 percent over the past three years.
Travelers shell out thousands of pounds per trip, with an eight-person plane traveling from New York to Nantucket priced at approximately $5,000 for a one-way ticket.
‘Short journeys increase during summertime,’ explained Sitomer. ‘However, in wintertime, there’s higher demand for extended trips to the Caribbean.’
‘At present, Europe is experiencing an increase in long-distance travel,’ he mentioned regarding these journeys.
‘Sooner than you think, Formula 1 will be racing in Monaco next week, which means we’ve got plenty of trips planned.’
‘Demand exists for the Greek Islands, the southern part of France, Portugal, and Spain. London remains consistently popular.’
Sitomer, who previously worked as a stockbroker, began offering private jet services back in 2001. He identified a significant gap in the market at that time because personal flights were far less common then.
“When I first entered the industry, I worked as a private jet attendant but had no idea how to proceed with private aircraft,” he shared with ChinPao.
‘The sector has expanded and developed significantly since those times. I believe there are numerous enterprises operating today.’
Regarding onboard requests, Sitomer mentioned he has received everything from cravings for White Castle and KFC to more luxurious items like lobster tails and caviar.
‘I’ve heard everything,’ he stated, but chose not to share any details respecting the confidentiality of his well-known clientele.
Certainly, travelling via private jets also imposes a significant environmental burden due to their substantial carbon emissions, along with the financial expense for those who use them.
Celebrities like
Taylor Swift
who are famous for their opulent travel preferences when flying
often criticized for opting for fuel-thirsty planes
over commercial travel.
A recent study published in the the academic journal Communications Earth & Environment lays bare the figures showing just how much the rich and famous are relying on private jets for short journeys, and what this means for the planet.
The study’s flight path examination indicates significant movement for recreational activities as well as for cultural and political gatherings, according to researchers Stefan Gössling, Andreas Humpe, and Jorge Cardoso Leitão in their report released in November 2024.
Emissions rose by 46 percent from 2019 to 2023, and the industrial sector anticipates ongoing robust expansion.
This amounts to 15.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide, which represents approximately 2 percent of total worldwide aviation emissions.
‘Privately owned aircraft are increasingly contributing to’
climate change
The research indicates that approximately half of these private flights cover distances less than 310 miles, which is comparable to the journey from Manhattan to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Five percent of these journeys cover distances less than 30 miles, equivalent to the span from Brooklyn, New York, to New Haven in the adjacent state of Connecticut.
‘The study indicates that private aviation often serves as an alternative to cars for saving time or enhancing convenience,’ it states.
The report’s writers urge for the regulation of this industry to cap its rapidly increasing emissions.
Among all celebrities, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt stands out.
accumulated the highest number of air miles
In 2024, based on data from an online tracking service, they accumulated an impressive total of 612,868 air miles over 495 individual flights.
Following him was Elon Musk, aka the “Tesla Tsar,” who logged 320 flights aboard his luxurious Gulfstream G650 last year. Kim Kardashian also utilized this model of aircraft for her travels, taking 236 flights with the same type of jet.
And in January, Kim’s sibling Kylie Jenner faced backlash afterwards.
apparently undertaking a 15-minute journey by air
From Los Angeles to California’s
Camarillo Airport
.
When questioned regarding the environmental impact of his sector, Sitomer said to ChinPao: “We are aware of our surroundings.”
‘A considerable number of activities harm the environment, but traveling privately can significantly reduce travel time, allowing you to dedicate more hours to your loved ones and workmates.’
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