Now that we’ve been operating in Europe for a while, we took a look back at some of the key learning points that helped us get into the air and to find clients who needed the kind of services we provide.
As we stated in an earlier blog, the European private aviation business is booming and current economic factors suggest that this will continue for the foreseeable future. That’s good news for the aviation services management industry and even better news for the businesses who are looking to enjoy the benefits of non-commercial flight. There have never been so many choices available to get people where they need to be efficiently and comfortably.
After a lot of work and planning, we’ve nailed down 4 core factors that will help get you on the consideration list for these business travelers.
- Security and Safety
First and foremost, businesses want to know that your service is provided by highly trained individuals who will get you to where you need to go safely. This applies to every member of the crew on the ground and in the air. These travelers are looking for assurances before they make decisions. Security concerns also apply to equipment which means the aircraft you own or manage needs to be in pristine shape. Travelers may not know much about the airplanes, but they can certainly spot neglect which will disrupt their ability to trust you as a provider. - Convenience and Flexibility
Most businesses don’t have a lot of lead time in terms of travel necessary to their organization’s success. They need to feel they can have access to flights quickly or they won’t be able to trust your ability to serve their needs on a long term, consistent basis. They need your service to be convenient in terms of location and scheduling. And they need your team to be flexible in the face of scheduling or location changes that may arise. While none of these things can be carved in stone, your ability to deliver that kind of service will create long term partnerships. - Comfort of Travel
Let’s face it. While safety and convenience are price of entry, these business travelers are also looking to enjoy the experience. Flying privately comes with a certain expectation that they will enjoy services and benefits far beyond that of commercial travel. Make sure you are able to surprise and delight your customers every time with an experience that they’ll want to talk about later. Once you’ve developed a relationship with your customers, ensure that you are keeping notes on their personal preferences so that every crew can exceed their expectations when they fly with you. - Privacy
This is the ultimate expectation. The privacy of your customers is expected to be protected by the highest levels of confidentiality. Travelers want to feel that whatever is seen or overheard will never be repeated or discussed by crew. The less guarded customers feel they can be, the more they will enjoy their experience and trust you as the provider. One slip by one crew member can end the relationship forever, and potentially cost you other customers in the future.