Red Bull Racing – Miami Grand Prix 2023

Posted on May 2, 2023May 16, 2023 by rbaliatico

Verstappen – Perez – Verstappen – Perez, Red Bull racing’s best drivers have dominated Formula One Racing this year leading up to this weekend’s Miami Grand Prix. Red Bull Racing is Red hot and really has its “wings” coming into the race this weekend at Hard Rock Stadium. I don’t know if the drama with his longtime performance coach, Angela Cullen, has derailed Lewis Hamilton and his Mercedes Benz F1 racing team, but he does seem a bit off the pudding. I read all the social media “it’s not you, it’s me” breakup conversation, but I feel there is way more to that story so I kind of don’t see him rattling the cages of the drivers and teams above him in the F1 standings, at least not this weekend. Sergio Perez is driving very aggressively lately as a man with a mission to win it all, and its been all Max and Checo this year in Formula One.

Wanna Make a Bet?

The Miami Grand Prix is the next stop on the Formula One World Championship circuit, with Max Verstappen favored to win, having already claimed victory in the Bahrain and Australian Grand Prix this season. At DraftKings Sportsbook, Verstappen’s odds to win are set at -250, while Sergio Perez, who won the Saudi Arabian and Azerbaijan Grand Prix, follows closely behind at +330 on the odds boards. The race is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 7 at the Miami International Autodrome, where Verstappen emerged victorious in 2022. Verstappen’s final time last year was 1:34:24.258, with Charles Leclerc finishing as the runner-up. Leclerc and Fernando Alonso share odds of +1400, with Alonso having placed in the top four in every Grand Prix this season. Overall, I think its time for the Red Bull team to get its wings clipped a bit and expect a great upset victory for Leclerc and the team at F1 Ferrari.

Tickets

There still seems to be a good selection of tickets for the event if you are interested in attending, and I feel the 3 day event tix offer the best value. There is something for every wallet with single day tickets at about $300ish, but you will easily get into the thousands of dollars range for multiday tix and better locations. Tickets can be purchased through the official race website. Grandstand packages for all three days of the event range from $850 to $1,900. The three-day Campus Pass general admission ticket starts at $590. There are also options to purchase Luxury, Suites, and Clubs on site. All ticketing information can be found at here .

Best View of the Race Action

In my humble opinion the T1 Grandstand North and East are the ultimate spots to witness the first corner chaos. But the excitement doesn’t stop there, as the tight corner following the long straight provides ample opportunity for thrilling overtakes, making it a hotspot for on-track moves during the 2022 race, including Verstappen’s pass on Leclerc for the lead and Mick Schumacher’s misjudged move on Vettel. Fans in these grandstands can also catch a glimpse of the pitlane exit and witness the nail-biting conclusions to race strategy battles. It’s no surprise that these grandstands are among the most popular in Miami. Although each has its own pros and cons, the views from both are significantly different, yet each a good choice.

Events

For live music enthusiasts, the weekend offers so many concerts to choose from. At E11EVEN Miami, you can catch shows by Tiesto, Rick Ross, and DeadMau5. Meanwhile, BleauLive Presents Miami Race Nights is a weekend-long concert series at the legendary Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel, featuring Ludacris, Kaskade, and Martin Garrix on stage, while its on-site mega club LIV will host Becky G, Zedd, and Diddy. The Hard Rock Beach Club (tix 2k per person) will also have a star-studded lineup, with performances by Jonas Brothers, Wisin y Yandel, Cedric Gervals, Tiesto, and many more as part of the official 2023 Hard Rock Beach concert series.

Specialty Dining

If you’re in the mood to indulge this weekend, there are plenty of luxurious dining experiences to choose from. The Once Upon a Kitchen dinner event on May 5th, featuring world-renowned chef Massimo Bottura, as well as chefs Juan Manuel Barrientos and Bernardo Paladini, is an ultra-exclusive affair priced at $6,000 per person. Guests will be treated to a six-course meal paired with cocktails by Dr. Alex Ott, as well as a cocktail hour, dinner, and an afterparty with DJ Benny Benassi, all taking place at The Deck at Island Gardens. Another extravagant option is the Carbone Beach pop-up, which runs from May 4th to May 7th, and costs $3,000 per person. Mario Carbone will be serving up a lavish Italian meal on the sands of Miami Beach, with surprise nightly performances to add to the excitement.

Local restaurants are also getting in on the action, with Cote Miami offering the Grand Prix Feast from May 3rd to May 7th, featuring steak and Norwegian wild King crab. Sexy Fish Miami is debuting two Omakase tasting menus during Race Week, accompanied by DJ performances in their “One Hell of a Ride” series, while Nobu is hosting a poolside Beach House party complete with Nobu food stations, live entertainment, a premium open bar, and a racecar simulator by custom motorsport art craftsmen. Finally, on May 6th, Fi’lia at SLS Brickell is hosting a Race Weekend Brunch, featuring live entertainment, special dishes, and surprise giveaways.

Watch Party Locations

Mark your calendars and push into high-gear this season because SWARM, 2250 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127, is presenting Racing Fan Fest, the largest off-track fan experience in the city, right in Wynwood Marketplace. In partnership with Red Bull, the immersive experience will feature tons of action, from interactive installations to an e-sports tournament, racing simulators, an RB19 display, full bar and food offerings, live DJ and more. It’s entirely free to attend and if you can’t make it to the track, the race will be shown live, making for an epic watch party.

Or head to Batch Gastropub, 30 SW 12th St, Miami, FL 33130, for the world’s fastest race! With 15 TVs and 3 projectors planted all over this bustling bar, there’s no way you’ll miss the races wherever they turn. Make a pit stop at the bar for specials including $5 Bud Light Draft, 5 for $25 16oz mix-n-match buckets and $5 Barn Burner shots to pair with all of your scratch-cooked favorites and great vibe

Ditch the heat of the race track and enjoy a day by the pool as you sip and eat your way through the race. Hyde Beach, 1701 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, will be home to the ultimate pool watch party while also getting your fill of delicious cookout food! There will be three 20-foot-wide LED screens displaying the Grand Prix races while guests dance, dine and swim. The event will feature traditional cookout food and cocktails with a special Winners Circle Burger made with 100% wagyu beef on a Charcoal bun haloed with a golden leaf ring for $100.

Brickell’s centrally located urban oasis, W Miami, 485 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131, is hosting a Formula 1 Watch Party at its signature rooftop restaurant, ADDiKT Modern Kitchen. Guests can watch the race and lounge on the terrace while taking in the incredible views of Biscayne Bay and the city skyline. Snack and sip on special race day menu items like the empanadas, nachos, wings, as well as sports themed cocktails.

With all these great venues so close, I’m almost ready to sell the tix and hangout in my neighborhood for the weekend – Nah Just Kidding! Who would pass this up and my Italian bloodlines force me to root in person for the family at Team Ferrari. Have a Great Race Weekend and remember to Be Social, Fly Private !

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Miami Grand Prix

The Miami Grand Prix is a Formula One (F1) race that is set to return to Miami, Florida, USA. The race had been in the works since 2018, and after several delays, it made its debut in May 2022. The Miami Grand Prix will take place on a new circuit that has been designed specifically for the event. The track will be a 5.41 km (3.36 miles) long street circuit that will run through the streets of Miami Gardens, a suburb of Miami. The circuit will have 19 turns and will be one of the fastest street circuits in the world, with an average speed of around 223 km/h (138 mph).

Formula One, or F1 racing, is a type of open-wheel car racing that involves highly specialized, high-performance single-seater race cars. F1 is widely regarded as the pinnacle of motorsport and is the most prestigious racing series in the world. The F1 World Championship, which is organized by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), is contested by teams representing different countries and car manufacturers.

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Embraer Executive Jets Focuses on the Production of Business Jets

Posted on March 14, 2023March 21, 2023 by rbaliatico

Embraer is a Brazilian aerospace company that produces commercial, military, and executive aircraft. Its private jet division, Embraer Executive Jets, focuses exclusively on the production of business jets for the private and corporate aviation market. Embraer Executive Jets offers a range of private jet models to suit the needs of various customers. These include the entry-level Phenom 100, the light Phenom 300, the midsize Praetor 500 and 600, and the large Legacy 650E. The Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 are popular choices for first-time private jet buyers or those looking for a cost-effective option. The Praetor 500 and 600 offer a balance between size, range, and speed, making them ideal for longer flights or those requiring more space. The Legacy 650E is Embraer’s largest and most luxurious private jet, capable of seating up to 14 passengers and traveling up to 3,900 nautical miles. In addition to offering a range of private jet models, Embraer Executive Jets provides a suite of services to support its customers. These include aircraft management, maintenance, and pilot training. Embraer’s customer support team is available 24/7 to assist with any issues that may arise.

The Embraer Phenom 300 Executive Jets

The Embraer Phenom 300 is a popular light business jet produced by Embraer Executive Jets. The Phenom 300 is known for its modern design, advanced technology, and excellent performance. It can accommodate up to nine passengers and two pilots and has a range of up to 2,010 nautical miles, making it ideal for both short and medium-haul flights. It features a spacious cabin with large windows, ergonomic seating, and a variety of amenities designed to enhance passenger comfort, such as a lavatory, an entertainment system, and a refreshment center. This aircraft also has ample storage space, with a large baggage compartment accessible during flight. One of the most notable features of the Phenom 300 is its advanced avionics suite, which includes a full glass cockpit with synthetic vision technology, auto-throttle, and advanced warning systems that enhance safety and situational awareness. The aircraft is also equipped with a sophisticated flight management system and digital weather radar. The Phenom 300 is powered by twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E engines, which provide excellent fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This executive jet also has a high-speed cruise of 453 knots, making it one of the fastest light business jets in its class. All this makes the Embraer Phenom 300 is a popular choice among private jet buyers who value performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It is widely considered to be one of the best light business jets on the market today.

The Embraer Phenom 300E

The Embraer Phenom 300E is the upgraded version of the popular Phenom 300 light business jet produced by Embraer Executive Jets. The 300E model features several advancements and improvements over its predecessor, including: Enhanced Avionics Suite – The Phenom 300E is equipped with an advanced Collins Aerospace Pro Line Fusion avionics suite. The system features a touch-screen cockpit display and an intuitive graphical user interface, which simplifies the pilot’s workload and improves situational awareness. Upgraded Cabin – The cabin of the Phenom 300E has been redesigned to offer greater comfort and flexibility. The aircraft features new seats with improved cushioning, adjustable headrests, and retractable armrests. The cabin also has an advanced air management system that reduces noise and vibration, and a high-speed Wi-Fi system that enables passengers to stay connected while in flight. Increased Range – The Phenom 300E has a maximum range of 2,010 nautical miles, which is the same as its predecessor. However, the aircraft’s fuel efficiency has been improved, allowing it to travel further with the same amount of fuel. Upgraded Engines – The Phenom 300E is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E1 engines, which provide improved performance and fuel efficiency. The engines also meet the latest noise and emissions standards, making the aircraft more environmentally friendly. Improved Maintenance Program – Embraer has introduced an advanced maintenance program for the Phenom 300E, which includes predictive maintenance technology that enables operators to anticipate maintenance needs and minimize downtime. The program also features an online portal that allows operators to monitor the aircraft’s maintenance status and schedule service appointments.

The Embraer Phenom 300E is a significant improvement over its predecessor, with advanced avionics, enhanced cabin comfort, improved range and performance, and an advanced maintenance program. These upgrades make the Phenom 300E one of the most advanced and capable light business jets on the market today. Overall, the Embraer private jet division is known for its quality craftsmanship, innovative technology, and exceptional customer service. Next week we will publish our 2nd Quarter 2023 Events Calendar that many fly to in a private jet. Until then, Be Social, Fly Private!

The Beechcraft King Air

Posted on February 28, 2023March 6, 2023 by rbaliatico

The Beechcraft King Air is a popular aircraft model for air charter services. It has a proven track record of reliability, versatility, and comfort, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travel. When it comes to air travel, two popular options are the Beechcraft King Air and a jet. While both offer fast and convenient transportation, there are some significant differences between the two that are worth considering.

Speed and Range: One of the primary differences between a King Air and a jet is their speed and range. Jets are generally faster than King Airs, which means they can cover greater distances in less time. Jets also have longer ranges, allowing them to fly non-stop for thousands of miles. In contrast, while the King Air is still fast, it has a shorter range, making it better suited for regional travel.

Size and Capacity: Another key difference between the two is their size and capacity. Jets are typically larger and can carry more passengers and cargo than King Airs. For example, a typical jet may seat anywhere from six to eighteen passengers, while a King Air may seat up to nine passengers. Jets also tend to have more cabin space and amenities, such as a galley or a lavatory with a shower, compared to the more compact cabin of a King Air.

Cost: Cost is another factor that distinguishes the two. Jets are generally more expensive to operate and maintain than King Airs. They also require more fuel and have higher hourly rates. As a result, jets tend to be a more costly option for air travel, making them more suitable for business or luxury travel.

Versatility: On the other hand, the King Air is highly versatile and can operate from shorter runways than most jets. This makes it ideal for traveling to remote or smaller airports that jets may not be able to access. The King Air is also able to fly at lower altitudes than jets, allowing for a smoother ride and a more scenic view.

The choice between a King Air and a jet ultimately depends on the specific needs of the traveler. While jets offer faster travel, more amenities, and greater capacity, they come at a higher cost. The King Air, on the other hand, is more versatile and cost-effective, making it a popular choice for regional travel and accessing remote destinations.

The King Air was first introduced in the 1960s and has since undergone several upgrades to its design and features. Today, it is available in several models, including the King Air 250, King Air 350i, and King Air 360, each with its own unique set of capabilities and specifications. One of the key features of the King Air is its ability to operate from shorter runways, including those at smaller regional airports. This makes it an ideal aircraft for reaching destinations that may not be easily accessible by commercial airlines or larger private jets. The King Air is also known for its exceptional performance in a variety of weather conditions. It can operate in hot and high altitude environments, making it a reliable choice for travel to mountainous regions or during the summer months. Additionally, its advanced avionics system allows for precise navigation and improved safety during flights.

In terms of comfort, the King Air offers a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to nine passengers. The interior is designed with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and ample storage space. It also features a fully enclosed lavatory and a refreshment center, providing a comfortable and convenient travel experience. For business travelers, the King Air can be equipped with in-flight Wi-Fi, allowing for productive work during flights. It also offers a quiet and private environment for conducting business meetings or conversations.

The Beechcraft King Air is manufactured by Textron Aviation, a subsidiary of Textron Inc., which is a multinational aerospace and defense conglomerate based in Providence, Rhode Island, USA. Textron Aviation is a leading general aviation company and the manufacturer of several well-known aircraft, including the Beechcraft Bonanza, Cessna Citation, and Hawker jets.

Overall, the Beechcraft King Air is an excellent choice for air charter services. Its reliability, versatility, and comfort make it a popular choice among both business and leisure travelers. If you are in need of air charter services, consider the King Air for your next flight. Next week we will take a deeper dive into Textron Aviation and how it impacts the air charter industry, until then Be Social, Fly Private!

The first private jet flight

Posted on February 14, 2023February 15, 2023 by rbaliatico

The first private jet flight took place on May 18, 1958, in the United States. The aircraft was the Learjet 23, designed and built by William P. Lear, an American inventor, engineer, and entrepreneur born on June 26, 1902, in Hannibal, Missouri. He is best known for founding the Learjet Corporation, which revolutionized the private jet industry. Lear had a long and varied career, with interests in several different fields. He worked in radio and electronics in the 1920s and 1930s, and during World War II, he designed and manufactured the Lear Autofocus, an early automatic aircraft landing system. He later founded the Lear, Inc. company, which produced a range of electronic products, including car radios and aircraft navigational systems. In the 1950s, Lear turned his attention to aviation and began work on a small, high-performance business jet that could be flown by a single pilot. This led to the development of the Learjet 23, which made its first flight in 1963 and became the first successful private jet aircraft. Lear’s contributions to the aviation industry were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including induction into the National Aviation Hall of Fame in 1981. He passed away on May 14, 1978, at the age of 75, but his legacy lived on through the Learjet Corporation’s growth and his many contributions to the fields of electronics and aviation.

The Learjet company became known for designing and manufacturing high-performance private jets. The first Learjet model, the Learjet 23, was introduced in 1964 and quickly became a popular choice for business and private aviation. The Learjet 23 was a small, sleek jet that could carry up to six passengers and two crew members, with a top speed of 561 mph and a range of 2,350 miles. The first flight of the Learjet 23 was piloted by test pilot Hank Beaird, who took off from Wichita, Kansas, and flew the aircraft to Grant County Airport in Indiana. The flight covered a distance of 771 miles in just over an hour, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. The Learjet 23 was a game-changer in the aviation industry, introducing the concept of private jet travel and paving the way for the development of other private jet models. Over the years, the company developed and produced several other models of private jets, including the Learjet 24, Learjet 25, Learjet 28/29, Learjet 31/35, Learjet 45, Learjet 60, and Learjet 70/75. The company was also known for introducing several innovations in private jet design, such as the use of advanced avionics and composite materials. In 1990, the Learjet company was acquired by Bombardier Aerospace, a Canadian aircraft manufacturer, and became a part of Bombardier’s business aircraft division. Unfortunately for fans of the fast Learjets, Bombardier announced on February 11, 2021, that it would cease production of Learjet aircraft. This decision was made as part of Bombardier’s restructuring plan to focus on its more profitable business aircraft models, such as the Global and Challenger series. The last Learjet model produced by Bombardier was the Learjet 75 Liberty, which was built in limited numbers in 2021. As of now, there are no plans for Bombardier to resume production of Learjet aircraft.

Today, private jets are used by individuals, businesses, and governments worldwide for a variety of purposes, including business travel, medical transportation, and luxury leisure travel. It is difficult to provide an exact number of Learjets that are still actively flying as private jets since the information is not publicly available. However, according to the latest data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States, as of December 2021, there were 1,782 Learjet aircraft registered in the US. This includes all models of Learjet aircraft, both active and inactive. Many Learjet aircraft have been in service for several decades, and their owners and operators have invested in maintenance and upgrades to keep them airworthy and up-to-date with modern avionics and safety features. While the number of active Learjets may have decreased over time as newer models have been introduced, many of these iconic private jets remain in service and continue to be a popular choice for business and private aviation.

It’s important to take a moment to remember who we have to thank for our industry. William Lear was one of those people that launched our industry and was an American Icon in the private Aviation World. We will look deeper into the history of the private jet charter business in the next couple of blog posts, so until next time, Be Social, Fly Private!

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Private Jet Charter with Emptylegs.net

Posted on February 7, 2023February 7, 2023 by rbaliatico

Who We Are/What We Do

EmptyLegs.net is a private jet charter company that specializes in matching private jet owners with travelers who need to fly on short notice at a reduced cost. The term “empty leg” refers to a private jet that is flying without passengers on its return trip, and EmptyLegs.net offers these flights to customers at a discounted price. Our company’s goal is to help private jet owners offset the cost of their flights by filling empty seats, while providing travelers with an affordable and convenient way to fly privately.

Where Are We Based

EmptyLegs.net is conveniently based in the new business hotspot, Brickell/Miami Florida. We also operate as a virtual business, with our team working remotely from different locations around the United States and the Caribbean, rather than having only one physical office.

Why Fly Private Instead of Commercial

There are several reasons why some people choose to fly privately instead of commercially:

Convenience: Private jets offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling, destination options, and routing, which can save time and provide a more efficient travel experience.
Privacy: Private jets offer more privacy and exclusivity, with fewer passengers on board and a more controlled environment.
Comfort: Private jets offer a higher level of comfort, with spacious cabins, personalized services, and a variety of amenities.
Productivity: Private jets allow travelers to work or conduct business during the flight, with a more relaxed and productive environment.
Avoid Crowds: Commercial airports can be crowded and stressful, whereas private airports offer a more streamlined and personalized experience.
Reduced Travel Time: With access to smaller airports, private jets can reduce travel time, as they avoid the crowds and long lines at commercial airports.
Health and Safety: Private jets offer a more controlled environment, which can reduce exposure to illness and provide a safer travel experience.

It’s important to note that flying privately can be more expensive than commercial travel, and may not be feasible for everyone. However, for those who value time, privacy, comfort, and convenience, private aviation can provide a superior travel experience.

Which Private Jet is Best for the First-Timer

The best jet for a first-time private air charter depends on several factors such as the number of passengers, the length of the flight, and the desired level of comfort and amenities. Here are some popular options:

Cessna Citation Mustang: This light jet is a great choice for short trips, with seating for up to 6 passengers and a range of around 1,150 miles.
Hawker Beechcraft Premier 1A: This light jet is a popular choice for longer trips, with a range of around 1,500 miles and seating for up to 7 passengers.
Gulfstream G150: This mid-size jet is ideal for long-haul trips, with a range of around 3,000 miles and seating for up to 8 passengers.
Bombardier Challenger 350: This super-mid-size jet is a popular choice for long trips, with a range of around 3,200 miles and seating for up to 9 passengers.

It’s best to discuss your specific needs and preferences with our private air charter representative, who can provide recommendations and help you choose the best aircraft for your trip.

How Do I Join Emptylegs.net or Search for Flights

Join

Visit our website: Go to the We Can Help main page and explore the information we provide about our services.
Create an account @ Join Now: Just complete the form and Click on the “Submit” button.

Search

Browse available flights: Browse the list of available flights to find the one that best fits your needs on our home page Search Empty Legs. The emptylegs are in chronological order as they will become available.
Select a flight that works for you: Click the “Inquire” button, complete the simple form, add any notes, then click “Submit”.
Or search for Emptylegs: Fill in your flight details, including the date, time, origin, and destination, to see if there are any available empty legs that match your needs. Click the “Inquire” button for any matches, fill in the form, then click “Submit”.
To Book a flight not found or get more Info: Just Click the “Flight Request” button and complete the contact form, then click “Submit”.
All inquiries go directly to one of our available representatives, and they will contact you immediately unless the request is submitted after hours. In that case, they will follow up with you on the next business morning.
If you have any other questions: You can always just start by going to our Contact Us page to get your request sent to us quickly .

It’s important to note that availability of empty legs can vary and some flights may not be available. You may also need to provide additional information or documentation before your booking can be confirmed. The best way to find these great flights is by becoming a member and letting us complete an Emptylegs.net UCD (Uniquely Created Profile). This will afford you the opportunity to see flights that match your needs before they are advertised.

Hope this article gets you thinking about flying private with us and until then Be Social, Fly Private!

The Big Game in Two Weeks

Posted on January 31, 2023February 7, 2023 by rbaliatico

The Big Game in two weeks is all set. What a great and not so great weekend of football. I can’t believe the meltdown San Francisco had at the QB position. Honestly, being a NY Giant and Miami fan I have become use to lackluster play at that position, but to watch San Fran’s QB not play due to what seemed to be a non existing elbow issue was a bit much. Then to see Patrick Mahomes limp and wince in pain all game and then make a final big run in the closing minutes to set his team up to win on that last field goal drove home who really wanted to win. Well its all ready to be an epic game in Glendale, Arizona on February 12th, and the flight request are coming in. They will be hard to find, but if you want to go bad enough, and there is a private jet flight out there for you, we will secure it. I also thought this week might be a good time to take a look at the venue and local vibe for those lucky enough to go to the big game in Arizona.

The Stadium for The Big Game

This years event is at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona which is the home of the Arizona Cardinals and the annual Fiesta Bowl. The stadium design includes the first of its kind retractable natural grass playing surface in North America and the first completely retractable roof operating at an incline. The stadiums shimmering metal panels reflect the shifting desert light while 21 vertical glass-walled slots incorporate into the building exterior offering the fans inside an outstanding view of the desert horizon. A total of 63,400 fans get unobstructed views of the playing field and they can increase that capacity to 73,000 for events like this. The stadium has already hosted two super bowls and two NCAA Football Championship games in its plus 1.7 million square feet of space. The physical address is 1 Cardinals Way, Glendale, Arizona.

Accommodations for The Big Game

Most likely the better hotels and spas are sold out or they will be at a premium, but let’s mention a few here that deserve noting. The Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia is nestled at the base of Camelback mountain in nearby Scottsdale, Arizona. It is a Spanish-inspired luxury resort that feels like a beautiful Andalusian Village with floral walkways, peaceful fountains, and arching entryways. There is an award winning spa called Joya plus three sparkling pools with 23 cabanas, and six nice restaurants to enjoy after the game. The Phoenician, also in Scottsdale is architecturally a stunner, lavishly decorated with an amazing art collection, and a 27 hole championship golf course. Each room has its own private balcony or a patio and bedding of imported Italian linens. The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess rounds out my list of Five Star Accommodations for the big game. This is our AAA Five Diamond resort pick that reinvigorates desert escapism with amazing amenities like six pools, a splash pad, water slides, hot tubs, and even sand beaches. It also boast five onsite restaurants to pick from and two world class spas.

Flying In Via Private Air Charter –

Flying into Glendale Municipal (KGEU) will place you just 5 miles west of downtown Glendale. Scenic mountains to the south provide the backdrop for aircraft arrivals and departures. They have a beautifully designed two-story, a 22,000 square-foot terminal and a FAA controlled tower, and complete airport service for general aviation and private jet traffic.

Things To Do Nearby –

Westgate Entertainment District, 6770 N Sunset Blvd, Glendale, AZ. Sprawling shopping complex with restaurants and live music on weekends. Usually jammed packed with football fans during this weekend. There’s a great number of restaurants from national chains to fine dining here. Sahuaro Ranch Park, 9802 North 59th Ave, Glendale, AZ. Wander through the many historic buildings, gardens, orchards, and groves with peacocks and all types of other birds. Historic Downtown District Glendale. Many shops and restaurants plus a great place to seek out antiques. And finally, golfing, golfing, and more golfing. There are way too many courses to list here, one better than the next, but let’s at least mention The Legend at Arrowhead, if not for anything else than the pure vistas and nearby mountain ranges. It’s an award winning Arnold Palmer-designed championship course. There is delicious dining after a quick 9 or an all out 18 hole day with an array of amenities and superb services. It is located at 21027 N 67th Ave, Glendale, AZ.

Private Air Charter and Emptyleg Flights to the Big Game

We hope to hear from anyone that might still not have their respective private air charter set up for the event or are now going last minute. We will say the pickings are thin but not impossible. Have a great week and remember to Be Social, Fly Private!

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Private Jet Event Travel in Q1 2023

Posted on January 24, 2023February 7, 2023 by rbaliatico

Private Jet Event Travel in Q1 2023 is a very busy time. We have been digging up deals for NFL playoff games around the nation. It has actually been so busy this year that we delayed this blog post by a week due to the volume of calls, text, and email inquiries for flights. Finally, we had the chance to catch our breath and put together this nice 1st Quarter 2023 Events calendar of interest to the air charter community. Hope you have the the opportunity to enjoy some of these as they kick-off their annual events.

January 2023

The NFL playoffs are running strong and the final weekend of playoff games is this upcoming Sunday, January 29th. People will be flocking to Kansas City, Missouri and Arrowhead Stadium for the AFC conference playoff game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Kansas City Chiefs. Our preferred private air charter airport is the Charles B. Wheeler downtown airport (KMKC) which is located four miles from downtown Kansas City. Its a very busy airport with over 67,000 aircraft operations annually. The NFC conference game will be held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the Lincoln Financial Field Stadium with the San Francisco 49ers stepping onto the green against the tough to beat this year Eagles. It should be a great weekend of football, and we are already deep into sourcing flights to these games for our clients.

X-Games in Aspen, Colorado will be running from January 27th thru January 29th. The Buttermilk Ski Resort in Aspen, Colorado event is the biggest snow sport event of the year and its even free to attend. There’s a great lineup for music this year with free performances from acts like Kaskade, Yung Gravy, Night Tales, MOD SUN, and MADDS. Aspen is amazing in January so this is a great event to add to your private air charter plans.

Sundance Film Festival spans from January 19th through the 29th in Park City/Salt Lake City, Utah. If you are a film buff or a celebrity sighting fanatic, this is the event for you. You can visit the website for tickets and information. The best overall ticket is the Festival Package: In-Person where you get tickets to screenings, in-person premiers, early access to ticket selections, and all online Explorer Pass benefits including Short Film and Indie Episodic programs. Our favorite private air charter airport is Heber Valley Airport (KHCR) which isn’t too big, but very accommodating. There are many Five Star resorts to choose from like the Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley and the St. Regis in Deer Valley.

February 2023

For us the month of February starts just before Valentine’s Day Travel with the Super Bowl. Which teams will contend at this annual monster of an event in Glendale, Arizona at the State Farm Stadium is soon to be determined. My personal wish is to see the 49ers vs the Chiefs, but that’s my heart speaking not my brain. With injuries and talent levels, it looks like a lock for Bengals vs the Eagles at this point. Regardless of the competitors, what better place is there to see a Super Bowl than Arizona in February. This is the time to go large or don’t go at all. Midsized and Heavy Jets dominate the empty leg requests we receive with big time ballers looking to have a good time. Flying into Glendale Municipal (KGEU) will place you just 5 miles west of downtown Glendale. Scenic mountains to the south provide the backdrop for aircraft arrivals and departures. They have a beautifully designed two-story, a 22,000 square-foot terminal and a FAA controlled tower, and complete airport service for general aviation and private jet traffic. With so many great resorts and golfing nearby, this year’s Super Bowl is a bucket list event at a bucket list location.

If football isn’t your sport, start the Month of February with a trip to our neighbors of the north, Canada. February 3rd to the 12th is time for the Quebec Winter Carnival and is another fantastic trip. It’s really one of the best Winter Festivals in the World. It is also very cold, so you need to bundle up before seeing all the parades, the ice sculptures and music shows. We do a lot of Miami to Quebec flights annually and it is a growing destination for our south florida based clients, especially those that call Miami Beach home. We have great operators flying all through Canada with some very attractively priced emptylegs from Florida to Canada’s biggest cities. Many Canucks escape the cold via private air charter creating emptylegs seeking to return to Canada at discounted prices. The Quebec Winter Festival is a great excuse to take advantage of these heavily discounted flights.

From the coldest winter carnival to the warmest, the Rio Carnival in Brazil is possibly the world’s most famous festival. Starting February 17th and running through February 25th, the Rio Carnival attracts millions of people from around the globe. The streets of Rio de Janeiro are flooded for five sleepless days, colorful parades, costumes and over-the-top parties making it the greatest show on earth. Granted there can be safety concerns as with any event this size, so we do recommend planning this trip wisely. Most of our clients do have their own safety protocols in place for such events, and it makes sense for this one.

Of course since we are a Miami based company we can’t forget the World’s Largest Boat and Yacht Show February 15th through the 19th in Miami. The Miami International Boat Show will have over 1000 boats and yachts on display from South Beach to Edgewater and everywhere in-between. There are numerous coinciding VIP events, luxury dining and hotel accommodations, and a night life like nowhere else in the world. This is our hometown event, so let us get you here in style for this International event.

Finally, if you can’t get to Rio for Carnival, Mardi Gras in New Orleans is happy to take its place on your list. Starting back in January, Mardi Gras is a long festival with many parades and activities leading up to its end on February 17th, Fat Tuesday. With fabulous dining, cultural history, and so many things to do, New Orleans is a great place to visit in your chartered Hawker 900xp with friends and family.

March 2023

Sports fans love March because its NCAA Men’s Division 1 basketball tournament time, March Madness starting in Dayton, Ohio with West Regionals in Vegas, Southern Regionals in Louisville, Eastern Regionals at Madison Square Garden in NYC, and Midwest Regionals in Kansas City. Culminating with the Final Four in Houston, Texas, this is a very busy month for private air charter. College Basketball doesn’t get any crazier than this annual tournament, and the games are amazing to see in person. Even if you don’t love basketball, most people enjoy following this tournament. We can handle your private air travel needs to see your favorite college games.

March is a beautiful month to jet around the US as we move from winter to spring. What better way to celebrate than at the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C. that starts March 25th. This is a four week-long cultural festival held across the city. Starting with the Opening Ceremony on the 25th, many of the events run well into April. Late March is a good time to start the visit at the beginning of the bloom, and as always D.C. is a great place to visit.

Tennis Anyone? Starting March 20th is the Miami Open for all you tennis fans. No this isn’t a Pickleball Tournament, this is great tennis with the biggest stars of the world tennis stage visiting us for some great action. I remember attending when it was called the Sony Ericksson Open back in the day, but it has grown exponentially since then moving from Key Biscayne, Florida to Miami Gardens at the Hard Rock Stadium. The Miami Open boasts thirty courts and two weeks of tournament action. Easy fly-in at Opa Locka (KOPF) makes this event a favorite of the jet set crowd.

Finally, and very close to home is another annual must attend event, The Ultra Music Festival at Bayfront Park starts Friday March 24th and runs through Sunday March 26th. It’s Loud, it’s Huge, and the whole city seems to hop to the weekend long beat that pounds our balcony and makes us want to dance. The list of talent is endless and way too long to list here. Just visit their website for info on the lineup and visit our website to book your private jet travel to get here.

Private Jet Air Charter

We enjoy the opportunity to share these events with our readers, followers, and clients. Sharing some ideas with you with these quarterly event sneak peeks and are happy to help you hunt for great deals to make them a part of your reality. We can help secure both roundtrip and one-way charters at heavily discounted prices when available or as always provide you with a very competitive price with our team at your side along the way.

Until next week’s post, Be Social. Fly Private!

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Doing Leg Work is Exhausting

Posted on January 10, 2023February 7, 2023 by rbaliatico

Doing leg-work is exhausting. No, not the kind at the local gym, the leg work we do searching our databases, sending emails, and calling with our operators. It’s what we do to find the perfect air charter or emptyleg flight for our clients. We have touched on many aspects of the private air charter business in our previous blog post articles from buying your own jet to reviews of the most popular categories, models, and hourly charter rates. We also detailed how, if your private air travel needs are below 50 hours per year, private air charter is a better option than fractional ownership. As we look at the weekly, yes weekly, changes to jet charter company membership deals and jet card offers, we find that they really aren’t as much of a cost savings as they are time savers. We know time is money so we can see why, even if they are often not the lowest priced way to fly privately, they can be the most efficient, especially with the larger more reputable firms. While we are an excellent alternate option, we do not market our services as a brokerage firm. We prefer to act as the bona fide agent for our clients seeking private air charter at attractive prices. The definition of the term “bona fide” identifies with us as “sincerely, without intention to deceive”. We charge a modest commission to the operator for helping them move aircraft that they would normally fly without passengers, that is an emptyleg. Unfulfilled, non-revenue emptylegs are flights the operator would otherwise absorb as a cost or pass that cost on to the customer flying a revenue leg. Finding customers for emptylegs isn’t an easy task because it is a very competitive business and the amount of work needed to find the perfect solution for a client can take days, weeks, and even months to put together. A bona fide agent like us really has to love what they are doing because sometimes our very hard efforts are rewarded with “that’s too expensive” or “I booked something else,” leaving us unpaid for our efforts. Fortunately, loyal clientele builds quickly if you get a reputation for making things happen and offering great value for client’s flights needs. Let’s take a peek into the process and why we can be such an asset to anyone that flies private.

Operators

Air charter operators are a very diverse group. Some operators are so busy that you can consider yourself lucky to get a call back or reply to an air charter request. They can’t be blamed for this because their flight departments are usually very complex with limited staff who can’t waste time providing quotes to every broker looking for a flight for a client that thinks it will cost just a little more than flying First Class. Of course we know a First Class ticket is nowhere near the price of a private jet charter. Even if you go with an operator that offers flights by the seat, they are considerably higher than a First Class ticket. Only if the flight is a normalized route like NY to Miami that they are trying to fill daily, will these flights get in the range of a First Class ticket. So when a broker or a company like ours reaches out, it’s your reputation for having the clientele that gets the return call. We maintain extensive databases of all our operators. We know where they fly, what they fly, and how often. We know their strengths and weaknesses. Calling a California based operator for that Miami to NY request will not be prudent, as many operators have a preference for their routes. Yes, some fly anywhere and everywhere, but that’s a smaller group, and tend to be more expensive at quote time. You have to have a game plan to match the client to the operator. Many brokers pay large monthly membership fees to companies that organize this data for them, but like with anything else, you get what you pay for. I find that these services tend to give preference to the operator that pays for the “enhanced” listing, so when you search they come up first regardless of if that flight is in their wheelhouse. We prefer to work our own database of operators. They don’t have to sign any agreement with us or give us exclusive pricing. Each flight stands on its own merit. If we can find an operator motivated to move a jet or even a turbo prop in the path our client needs to fly, the good pricing speaks for itself. This doesn’t happen overnight as these relationships are nurtured over time and it’s a never ending process. However, it does take a lot of leg work, something we are happy to do on behalf of our consistent clients. Now lets take a look at this private flyer.

Private Flyers

There is a saying in the business, “Jet Money”, and I hate this terminology. It basically means that only certain people have the type of money to fly private. Anyone with need and desire can figure a way to fly private. I remember the first time I took a call from a very nice gentleman who was looking for regular flights from the west coast of Florida to Texas for medical treatments. He didn’t need ambulatory flights, he just hated flying commercial. The client was wheelchair bound and had to be lifted from the chair into the First Class seat he would purchase on the commercial plane. He explained to me it could be a great experience, but more often it was humiliating and done with no concern for his dignity. I fully understood, and knew that even though he had the financial means to pay for the private flight, we would have to find the right plane, and more importantly, the right crew. It took time, and a little trial and error, but we finally found the nice client an operator that was happy to accommodate his needs. I wouldn’t define this person as having “Jet Money” as much as I would call him a human being needing our help.

Since Covid-19 flying private will never be the same nor will flying commercial, it was a game changer for both areas of the industry. It has created a new category of private fliers that will find a way to fly private just to not have deal with the commercial airlines. The heavy layoffs and early retirements set back the commercial industry in a way no one could have expected. Although crew shortages are a problem, the prevailing problem I see is that some airlines failed to invest in the operations IT. Some systems are personnel intensive when it comes to scheduling and tracking crew, luggage, resources, maintenance, and the like. They have not automated enough to adequately deal with delays or weather issues. This is why the commercial airline systems keep collapsing. Just this past holiday Southwest airlines imploded mainly due to antiquated IT software with little or no AI. The airlines need to focus on operations personnel and systems. Just ask yourself, why are they still printing tickets, or why don’t they have iPhone like air tags for luggage. With all the technology available, it has to do with upper management focused solely on profitability and shareholders coupled with a lack of willingness to invest in systems.

The point is you don’t have to be a millionaire to fly private. There are great deals out there if you have someone in your court like us looking for them on a regular basis. There are times when it’s a no brainer to hop on an empty and other times where it makes perfect sense to fly commercial.

We are only scratching the surface of what we do and how we fit within the air charter market in this article. We are willing to do the leg work that you as our client shouldn’t have to do. When we’re looking for a flight for a client, we often say to each other, how in the world would our client have found this solution on their own or through a flight membership program. The answer is they wouldn’t. Often the specific flight doesn’t exist, but by seeing all the pieces we can help figure out the right pieces to the puzzle and create that flight. It takes the right team to put these together and that’s what makes us special. Next week we will take a peak at the upcoming hot travel for Q1 and especially for the big sporting events, holiday fun, and the Miami International Boat Show.

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The Top Three Heavy Jets to Charter

Posted on December 13, 2022February 7, 2023 by rbaliatico

Heavier is Better

As we move into the Big Beast of Private Jet Travel, we decided to list the Top Three Heavy Jets to Charter. These are the aircraft most requested to accomplish the longer range trips while stepping up your overall game. They are big in comfort, long in range, and full of creature comforts the executive traveler must have in their charter. We will go over a nice list of three here starting with the Gulfstream GIV-SP, then we will look at its fiercest competitor, the Bombardier Challenger 604, and finally the sweetheart Dassault Falcon 2000LX. These aren’t necessarily the newest or greatest but they are the top three dynamos of the Heavy jet charter brigade. Some tail numbers may have their best years behind them, but most still represent great value and excellent charter options without sacrificing luxury and comfort. Many have been refurbished with modern interiors, but there are a few out there that still look like they could use some TLC. So lets take a look at the GIV-SP for your next transcontinental trip.

#1 The Gulfstream GIV-SP

It’s easy to rank the Gulfstream GIV-SP in the Top Three Heavy Jets to Charter. The operational history of the GIV-SP and its military variants add to the cool factor of this aircraft. It is the plane of choice for the Hurricane Hunter selected by NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Their version was modified to carry scientist up to 45,000 ft ceilings and all around tropical cyclones. They drop instruments called “dropsondes” to measure all the critical data from a building storm such as windspeed, barometric pressure, humidity, and temperatures. The reason the GIV-SP was well suited for this task is because it can fly long distances with ample cabin space for equipment and crew while being tough enough to stand up to the beating the hurricane hunters put them through. The military variant of this aircraft is the the C-20F that the Army utilizes. It can be configured for both cargo and 26 passenger operations or a little bit of both. It is also used by the Navy, Marines, and the U.S. Air Force as command/executive transport roles (flying around the top brass). The GIV-SP is comparable to the Gulfstream III but with an aerodynamic redesign of the wing to lower weight, reducing drag, and increasing overall range. The SP stands for “Special Purpose” and appeared at serial number 1214 in 1993. Two Rolls Royce TAY 611-8 engines provide 13,850 lbs of thrust each. Sixteen passengers can be seated in three separate living areas. We find the more popular layouts to be the 14 passenger cabins or the 10 passenger cabin with 4-club space arrangement forward, a 2-place club and divan in the middle, then another 4-place conference seating in the rear. A full service galley can be located in the forward of aft compartments. Baggage is a roomy 169 cubic feet of space. Over 300 of these were built with production ending in 2002. The interior cabin height is a tall 6′ 1″ and a width of just over 7 feet. Maximum takeoff weight is a heavy 74,600 lbs with a max payload of 5300 lbs. The GIV-SP boasts a 45,000 ft ceiling altitude with an average range of 3,880 nautical miles. You will experience a normal cruise speed of 476 kts with a maximum speed closer to 500 kts. Typically the average hourly charter rate for a Gulfstream GIV-SP runs about $8,500* USD.

#2 Bombardier Challenger 604

Introduced in 1995, the Bombardier Challenger 604 is loved by executives and businesses because of its typically lower charter costs than the GIV-SP and other long range business jets. The successor to the CL-601 was one of the first business jets designed with a super-critical wing offering improved range, dependability, reliability, and outstanding performance. The Challenger 604 is a powerful heavy jet. This #2 pick in the category is powered by two General Electric CF34-3B engines that produce 8,729 lbs of thrust each. The plane can attain .74 Mach, but you can expect an economical cruising speed closer to 425 kts. With its fuel distribution and greater fuel capacity, the 604 can reach over 4,000 nautical miles range (NBAA 4Pax IFR Reserves 200 NM Alt). The cockpits have the Collins Pro Line 4 with six screens, left and right primary displays, multifunction displays and EICAS. The avionics suite is top notch with flight director/autopilot systems, HF-9000 high frequency radios, digital air data computers, turbulence detection radar, and dual Pro Line 400 all-digital interface comm/nav/ident radios. The standup height in the cabin is 6′ 1″ with a roomy 8.2 ft cabin width. Maximum capacity can be a tight 19 passenger layout, but a roomier 10-12 passenger layout is more common. You can expect to see forward club, half club, divan, or double club layouts. Galleys and Lavatories in the 604s are usually large. The Challenger 604 has a maximum altitude of 41,000 feet with a max take off weight of 48,200 lbs. The baggage space is ample for long trips at 115 cu ft. The average hourly charter rate for the Bombardier Challenger 604 is about $7,500* USD.

#3 Dassault Falcon 2000LX

The Dassault Falcon 2000LX is our third top pick for transcontinental Heavy Jets for charter service. It was a development of the 2000EX and 2000EX EASy and entered the market in 2007. This jet boast having the size and comfort of a large cabin with the efficiency of a light jet. Having similar 4,000 nautical range capability like the GIV-SP and the 604 Challenger, the Falcon 2000LX fills out this special grouping of heavy jets. The impressive addition of winglets set this airframe apart from its predecessors of the 2000 series of Falcons as well as added significant fuel savings and range. In the cockpit, pilots will be behind the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 with a fully integrated avionics suite, including the Honeywell EASy avionics panel, Allied GNS-XES flight management system, Collins TWR-850 Doppler weather radar, and a dual channel fully integrated avionics processor system. The power comes from twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW308C engines making the 2000LX capable of cruising at a fast 482 knots while comfortably carrying 10 passengers. You will find the cabin to be spacious and comfortable. The headroom is a nice and tall 6’2″ while an overall 7’8″ width. Passengers booking the 2000LX can enjoy over 1,000 cubic feet of interior space that gives them nice freedom of movement and legroom. You could seat up to 19 passengers in the cabin with the correct seat configuration, but we find most with seating for eight to ten passengers. The last one I was on had multiple lounge areas, seats that folded down into beds, a forward galley, and full aft lavatory. It had plenty of room for the baggage at 131 cubic feet and a max takeoff weight of 42,800 lbs. The Dassault Falcon 2000LX will usually have a $7,000* USD per hour charter rate.

It’s all about the range and comfort when it comes to these three heavy jets. If you want the best, I’d say take the Gulfstream GIV-SP. Looking to save a few bucks, well the Bombardier Challenger 604 with that updated interior from two years ago will be the obvious choice. Now if you want to impress the people meeting you on the tarmac when you land, few others will look cooler than a Dassault Falcon 2000LX pulling up to the FBO. Next week we go even larger, exploring the corporate behemoths in the Ultra Long-Range Business Jet Category.

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*These are base hourly rates per craft type with no ferry times, FET taxes, taxi time, or fuel surcharges. Typical final hourly rates will be higher based on category and timing.

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