The Specifics of Business Aviation

Large business executives typically do not fly on commercial flights; instead, they prefer to rent a private jet (or even a helicopter) specifically f

Large businessmen generally do not fly on commercial flights; instead, they prefer to charter a business jet (or even a helicopter) specifically for themselves, thus becoming users of business aviation services.

It must be acknowledged that the business aviation market in Russia experienced a decline in 2015 (experts report a 25 percent drop). This year, experts anticipate an additional decline of 15 percent. Many individuals who previously regarded high-class business aviation as a standard service are now trying to save money and are opting for regular commercial flights instead of their personal aircraft, or they are utilizing group charters and the Empty Legs system. Another reason for the downturn in this industry is that business aviation is being used less for leisure, hunting, and other non-work purposes.

However, for addressing business matters, business aviation in Russia remains advantageous and in demand. With a rented business jet, it is possible to visit various cities in a single day and hold important meetings in each of them.

Despite all the challenges posed by the economic climate, business aviation is actively used for travel both within Russia and internationally. Traditionally popular foreign destinations in this segment include London, Paris, Nice, Larnaca, the Alps, and the Riviera.

Using business aviation services allows VIPs to enjoy the highest level of comfort during their flight. Check-in and boarding in this case occur at VIP terminals. Such terminals are available in many cities across Russia—not just in Moscow (Vnukovo-3, Avkom Domodedovo, Terminal A, and Premier Avia at Sheremetyevo) and St. Petersburg (Pulkovo-3), but also in Krasnodar, Sochi, Kazan, and others.

Business aviation in Russia is a very specific industry. All Russian business aviation companies primarily equip their fleets with foreign aircraft—these may include planes such as the Cessna XLS, Falcon 900, Hawker 850XP, Challenger 605, Legacy 600, Gulfstream G200, and BBJ 2. Maintenance and operation of these vehicles are often carried out by foreign specialists. The most affluent businessmen can even afford personal aircraft, which are also serviced by companies operating in the business aviation sector.