Australian private jet start-up Airly has announced its membership has doubled since it resumed Sydney-Melbourne flights in May.
The success has caused the business, which claims to be Australia’s fastest-growing private aviation company, to also restart flights to Byron Bay and Mt Hotham.
Airly co-founder Luke Hampshire said, “Over the last few weeks, we’ve seen a surge in business travellers using our service to get their businesses moving now that restrictions are easing.
“With limited local options from the commercial airlines, and no way to holiday overseas, we expect domestic travellers looking to make the most of the upcoming winter break will make up the next wave.”
Airly launched in 2016 and its innovative app-based booking system lets members fly either on their own private jet, or to opt into an existing flight.
The new Sydney-Byron Bay flights cost $1,295 a seat, and $2,395 from Melbourne.
Tickets from Melbourne to Mt Hotham, meanwhile, are currently selling for $995.
Last month, Australian Aviation reported that charter operator Alliance increased profits this financial year by $7 million, which is credited to its ability to adapt planes for coronavirus.
The business said its “pioneering” measures, including social distancing seating plans, new cleaning regimes and passenger temperature checks, have been adopted by much of Australia’s industry.
“The swift and flexible response has seen Alliance capitalise on additional demand for flights in the resource sector and, particularly, increases in flight schedules of contracted clients,” Alliance said in a statement to the ASX.
This financial year, Alliance expects to make $40 million in profit before tax, up from $32.8 million in 2019.
Charter airlines are soon set to face increased competition from major airlines, with Qantas announcing it could return to 40 per cent of pre pandemic capacity in July if demand permits.
MEL/MHU for $995 a seat ? That must be return, but is still up there for such a very short flight.
A Saab 340 from MEB/MHU return is very roughly $7k based on no repositioning costs & that using at least 31 of the 34 seats. All 34 seats can be used if some kids & no excess luggage, (but not for 34 adults with lots of luggage including skis), so cost per seat with 100% load factor is just on $100 each way. 50% load factor $200 each way.
Of course these costs, don’t allow for diversions, in weather is bad at MHU.
Some Saab 340s have 36 seats but then reduced rear baggage compartment.
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