By: Mike Azzarelli
For many, flying commercial is the norm. But for high-net-worth individuals, crowded airports, delays, and rigid schedules often make travel more of a burden than a luxury. In 2022, nearly a quarter of all flights were delayed, making commercial air travel increasingly frustrating.
Private aviation offers a distinct advantage, providing seamless access to exclusive terminals and smaller airports. From Aspen’s challenging winter conditions, where limited runway space and harsh terrain make commercial travel a struggle, to New York City’s notoriously congested airspace, private jets eliminate the hassle, offering unmatched convenience.
Smaller airports like Teterboro (TEB) and Westchester County (HPN) allow UHNW individuals to bypass the chaos of commercial terminals and enjoy direct access to their destinations with the utmost privacy and efficiency.
For those who value time and ease, private jet travel is not just a luxury—it’s a solution that ensures the world’s busiest airports become obstacles of the past.
1. Aspen, Colorado
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Aspen’s Pitkin County Airport (ASE) presents significant challenges for commercial flights due to limited runway size, mountainous terrain, and harsh winter conditions. These factors make accommodating the heavy demand during peak ski season difficult.
Private Jet Advantage
In contrast, private jets can land directly in Aspen, bypassing the constraints of commercial flight schedules. This provides a seamless travel experience, ensuring access to the destination without delays or restrictions.
Private Airport
Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is ideally located close to luxury resorts, offering exclusive services catering to UHNW travelers. During peak ski season, the airport provides the utmost convenience, allowing direct access to one of the world’s most sought-after destinations. Private jets can take advantage of dedicated services and a more streamlined process compared to commercial flights.
2. New York City, New York
Why It’s Tough Commercially
JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark airports are among the world’s busiest and notorious for delays and congestion. These challenges make navigating commercial air travel in and out of New York frustrating, especially during peak travel times.
Private Jet Advantage
Private jets give you access to smaller airports and exclusive terminals much closer to the city center, letting you bypass the crowds at some of New York’s busiest airports and begin your trip stress-free.
Private Airports
Teterboro Airport (TEB) is the go-to private airport for New York’s elite, just minutes from Manhattan, offering a convenient and exclusive experience.
Westchester County Airport (HPN) is a quieter option, ideal for luxury travelers, providing a peaceful and efficient alternative to the larger, more congested airports.
3. Miami, FL
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Miami International Airport (MIA) is a major hub known for long security lines, seasonal overcrowding, and limited flexibility. These challenges can make traveling in and out of Miami time-consuming and frustrating, especially during peak travel periods.
Private Jet Advantage
With direct access to Miami, fliers enjoy quicker access to luxury beachfront estates without the delays or crowds of MIA.
Private Airports
Miami-Opa locka Executive Airport (OPF) is an ideal choice for UHNW individuals heading to Miami’s luxury hotels and beachfront estates, offering privacy and quick access to the city’s most sought-after locations.
Miami Executive Airport (TMB) is a convenient alternative that offers high-end services and privacy, allowing travelers to enjoy a seamless, efficient arrival experience.
4. Los Angeles, CA
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is infamous for constant traffic congestion, long security lines, and frequent delays, making it a frustrating experience for commercial travelers, especially during peak travel times.
Private Jet Advantage
Evade these issues using exclusive terminals and smaller airports, ensuring a faster and more seamless journey to Los Angeles.
Private Airports
Van Nuys Airport (VNY) is one of the busiest and most popular private jet airports globally, offering fast, efficient access to LA’s hotspots with the utmost privacy.
Burbank Airport (BUR) is a convenient alternative for travelers seeking quick access to the city and a more private, streamlined experience.
5. Jackson Hole, WY
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Jackson Hole experiences frequent weather-related delays and has limited commercial flight options, making it challenging for travelers, especially during peak seasons.
Private Jet Advantage
Bypassing the constraints of commercial travel lets you enjoy a more relaxed and flexible approach, getting you straight to the area’s luxury resorts and lodges.
Private Airports
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is located within Grand Teton National Park. It offers breathtaking views and is the perfect gateway for private jets heading to Jackson Hole’s luxury lodges and resorts.
6. Las Vegas, NV
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) handles massive traffic, particularly during major events like CES or high-profile holidays. The sheer volume of travelers often leads to long waits, crowded terminals, and a less-than-ideal experience for those seeking a more efficient journey.
Private Jet Advantage
Bypass the crowds and land just minutes from the famed Las Vegas Strip. This makes access to and from the city’s luxury casinos, resorts, and exclusive events quick and seamless.
Private Airports
Henderson Executive Airport (HND) is close to luxury casinos and resorts. HND is the ideal choice for UHNW individuals seeking privacy and efficiency.
Harry Reid International Private Terminals are exclusive terminals that offer a discrete, fast arrival experience, ensuring a smooth transition from jet to destination.
7. San Francisco, CA
Why It’s Tough Commercially
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is known for significant delays, especially due to fog and unpredictable weather, compounded by its status as a major international hub. These challenges often result in frustrating delays for travelers.
Private Jet Advantage
Bypass SFO’s weather-related delays and land at smaller, more efficient airports that prioritize privacy and convenience.
Private Airports
San Carlos Airport (SQL): Popular with Silicon Valley executives, SQL provides rapid access to the tech hubs of the Bay Area with unmatched efficiency.
Oakland International Airport (OAK) is a quieter, private-friendly alternative, offering seamless access to San Francisco without the congestion.
Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil, private experience. MRY offers an exclusive alternative with easy access to San Francisco and California’s scenic coast.
8. Palm Beach, FL
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) faces heavy congestion during peak seasons, especially when UHNW travelers flock to the area for vacation. This influx creates long waits and bottlenecks, detracting from the luxury experience.
Private Jet Advantage
Skip the crowds and enjoy a personalized journey to the heart of Florida’s most exclusive beachfront properties, where privacy and efficiency are paramount.
Private Airports
Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) private terminals are the primary choice for private jet travelers, offering VIP services and exclusive access to the area’s most luxurious estates and resorts.
9. Telluride, CO
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Telluride’s remote location and mountainous terrain make it a difficult destination for commercial flights. The airport’s altitude and weather often create travel complications, particularly during the busy ski season.
Private Jet Advantage
With seamless flights on your schedule, UHNW travelers can get to the slopes quicker without the usual delays or disruptions.
Private Airports
Telluride Regional Airport (TEX) is the highest commercial airport in North America. TEX is ideally suited for private jets, offering a quick and luxurious way to reach one of Colorado’s most exclusive ski resorts.
10. Napa Valley, CA
Why It’s Tough Commercially
Limited commercial flight options and Napa Valley’s relatively remote location make it a challenging destination for travelers, particularly during peak wine tourism seasons when demand is high.
Private Jet Advantage
Private aviation eliminates the hassle of waiting for commercial flights, allowing you to fly directly into Napa Valley. Enjoy immediate access to the region’s world-renowned vineyards, luxury accommodations, and music festivals like BottleRock.
Private Airports
Napa County Airport (APC) caters to the needs of luxury travelers, offering a seamless gateway to Napa Valley’s exclusive wine experiences, making it the perfect choice for UHNW wine lovers.