Summary
Are we living in the golden age of air travel? Well, perhaps not if you’re flying commercial. However, for those who can afford private flights (or something close), the landscape is remarkably different. In the realm of shared private-jet travel, where passengers book seats on a private-jet service instead of chartering an entire aircraft, it’s truly an exhilarating time. Consequently, new companies are emerging frequently, providing transportation for discerning travelers to desirable destinations like Cape Cod, Massachusetts; Aspen, Colorado; and Los Cabos, Mexico, all while bypassing the hassle of commercial airport terminals.
One of the most discussed newcomers in the industry is Aero. This service caters to popular holiday spots in the United States, the U.K., and Europe. Aero presents both a shared-jet experience on its 16-seat ERJ135 jet and fully private charters on the 13-passenger Legacy 600. Moreover, as the competition in the “semi-private” air travel segment heats up, you may wonder how Aero stands out. Find out below.
Where does Aero fly?
Initially launched in 2019, Aero began its services in Europe, facilitating flights between Mykonos, Greece, and Ibiza, Spain, during the summer season. While that route is currently unavailable, Aero now links Los Angeles to Los Cabos, Aspen, and Sun Valley, Idaho; San Francisco to Los Cabos; as well as London to Geneva, Ibiza, and Nice, France. Starting April 2023, a new route from Dallas will connect Texas to both Aspen and Los Cabos, ensuring all flights operate through private terminals, helping you avoid overcrowded commercial airports.
What are the planes like?
Finding a more stylish semi-private airline is a challenge. Aero has transformed the ERJ135 into a spacious 16-seat lounge that takes to the skies. It boasts an elegant all-black exterior with hand-stitched Italian leather seats, suede side walls, and mood lighting, reinforcing the notion that this is no ordinary airplane. With window and aisle access at every seat, ample legroom, a 43-inch seat pitch, and generous luggage storage, your journey is sure to be comfortable.
The Legacy 600, typically reserved for complete charters, features a different setup, including four-seat pods facing each other, while the ERJ135 maintains a straightforward configuration with all 16 seats facing forward.
Aero’s Amenities
Aero strives to offer a first-class experience from the moment you arrive at the private terminal. Upon arrival, staff take your luggage and escort you to a chic lounge, where you can enjoy a glass of your preferred bubbly or sparkling water. Furthermore, Aero’s flights are locally catered, ensuring that the snack-and-drink menu reflects the culinary charm of the destination. For example, travelers departing from Los Angeles might enjoy Erewhon popcorn and refreshing green juices, while beer selections feature offerings from Aspen Brewing Company, along with On the Rocks cocktails originating from Dallas. Notably, pets are also welcome and provided with snacks during the flight.
Aero employs a dedicated concierge team to assist guests not only with logistics, such as terminal transfers, but also to enhance their onboard experience by fulfilling special snack requests. Interestingly, the concierge team has the authority to carry out spontaneous acts of kindness for passengers. For instance, upon overhearing a guest mention her plans for a friend’s birthday in Nice, they arranged for a box of birthday cupcakes to be delivered to her upon arrival in France. This highlights Aero’s commitment to customer satisfaction and the creation of memorable experiences.
What does it cost to fly Aero?
In North America, the average cost for a one-way ticket on Aero is around $1,800, with the potential for tickets to be available for as low as $1,000 during promotional periods. For reference, the introductory prices for the new Dallas service are also starting at $1,000. In the U.K. and Europe, fares are comparable but priced in British pounds, with tickets beginning at £1,050.
What else do we need to know about Aero?
Aero’s flagship terminal in Van Nuys, California, features a uniquely branded lounge, while other terminals might offer a shared space. Moreover, customer feedback plays a crucial role in Aero’s operations, especially concerning potential new destinations. In response to guest demand, the brand often announces temporary pop-up routes. Notably, a recent London to Malaga, Spain, route operated for a few weekends, alongside a San Francisco-Sun Valley connection.
