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Private jet operator Flexjet has raised US$800 million in a new funding round led by L Catterton, a private equity firm backed by LVMH, with the investment to fuel the company’s continued global expansion.

Affiliates of KSL Capital Partners, LLC, and the J. Safra Group also participated in the funding round which has pushed Flexjet’s valuation to US$4 billion.

Now, the company will focus on growing its fleet and scaling international operations.

“The timing also steals some runway from the slowly re-opening IPO market, but avoids the headwinds of quarterly-earnings turbulence,” Chief Investment Officer at Running Point Capital Advisors Michael Ashley Schulman said, as reported by Reuters.

Flexjet, which is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, offers fractional aircraft ownership, leasing, and jet card services. It is owned by Directional Aviation, a private investment firm that specialises in aviation-related ventures.

The new valuation marks a substantial increase from the US$3.1 billion figure tied to the company’s planned SPAC merger in 2022, which ultimately collapsed the following year. “Flexjet learned the hard way that SPACs can be like unpressurized cabins at 41,000 feet – exhilarating until the masks drop,” Schulman said.

The company’s expansion strategy is underscored by a US$7 billion deal with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer, involving the purchase of 182 Phenom and Praetor executive jets, with options for an additional 30 aircraft. According to analysts at JPMorgan, this deal could increase Embraer’s total order backlog by about 26%, bringing it to an estimated $28.7 billion.

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Following the success of its first catamaran – Spirit of Ponant – in Corsica and the Seychelles in 2024, PONANT EXPLORATIONS is expanding to more exceptional destinations.

The French luxury expedition cruise operator has added a 4-stateroom catamaran, La Désirade, to its offering – ideal for the charter market. The vessel features a large indoor lounge, two outdoor lounges, a large open-plan kitchen, outdoor trampolines, rear deck at water level and more. Water sports are also available, including: stand-up paddleboarding, snorkelling, water skiing, wing foiling, inflatable Tiwal dinghy and an underwater scooter.

Accommodating up to nine guests (and crewed by a team of four including a captain and first mate), La Désirade will operate exclusive 7- or 14-day immersive voyages, sailing from Bonifacio through Southern Corsica and Sardinia until October.

The 23.25 metre Lagoon SEVENTY 7 sailing catamaran will then cross the Atlantic and offer Caribbean sailings from December this year through April 2026. Each itinerary is suggested but completely flexible, tailored by the captain and crew to suit guests’ wishes (weather and safety permitting).

Aboard PONANT EXPLORATIONS catamarans, every detail is crafted for a personalised experience in an intimate, refined setting. Guests’ preferences shape each journey from ports of call and sailing pace to daily menus. The private onboard chef showcases flavours of regions visited, using fresh local produce such as the catch of the day and seasonal fruit and vegetables. Daily shore excursions and visits are also tailored to guests’ wishes.

For more information, including how to book, visit au.ponant.com/spirit-of-ponant

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A significant increase in demand for mid-term stays has seen onefinestay join forces with the Herrmann Immeubles Group to launch the Élysée Collection, a new portfolio of upscale apartments available for short and mid-term rentals in Paris’s prestigious 8th arrondissement.

“Our experience of mid-term hospitality in New York combined with the increasing demand for longer stays in Paris created the ideal opportunity to collaborate with Herrmann Immeubles Group on the Élysée Collection,” onefinestay Deputy CEO Dorothée Guiol said.

“They have brought the apartments to life through exceptional design and craftsmanship, and we will have exclusive availability to offer the apartments to our guests.”

In New York, onefinestay saw a 30% increase in mid-term bookings in 2024, and Paris has followed the trend – with mid-term bookings up 300% year-on-year. The demand for stays of one to two months now makes up 64% of all mid-term rental enquiries in the French capital.

Comprising nine apartments over five floors, the Élysée Collection includes both mid-term (30+ nights) and short-term (3–29 nights) rental options. The selection ranges from a stylish studio to an expansive two-bedroom duplex. Designed by Iconique Design, each apartment blends classic Haussmannian charm with modern luxuries – bespoke kitchens, high-end appliances, custom-made fittings, smart technology, and air-conditioning.

“Our group invests significantly in new hospitality models for accommodating international travelers,” said Thierry Herrmann, CEO of Herrmann Immeubles Group. “By working with onefinestay in Paris we have created the Élysée Collection where guests can enjoy the freedom and autonomy to live at their own pace in the heart of the city while benefiting from the comfort and services a hotel would offer.”

Guests staying at the Élysée Collection will receive onefinestay’s renowned concierge service, including 24/7 support, housekeeping, luxury linens, and personalised experiences — from grocery deliveries and airport transfers to in-home childcare and private patisserie classes.

“Our guests know us for our concierge service which is central to making each stay an exceptional experience. Like all of our homes, guests staying at the Élysée Collection will be able to enjoy the same personalised and seamless service,” Guiol added.

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Luxury private rental brand onefinestay has unveiled its first-ever online Partner Portal, signalling a significant shift in how travel advisors can interact with its offerings.

The new portal offers a streamlined booking experience for the 30,000 global travel advisors it collaborates with, giving them access to onefinestay’s portfolio which spans 40 destinations, from New York to Koh Samui.

Now, advisors can search the most up to date availability and pricing, view home details and even create a shortlist of their favourite homes, to share with their clients. They can create either branded or unbranded itineraries and seamlessly transition proposals into bookings with the support of onefinestay’s Destination Specialists. A built-in commission display provides transparency on earnings per booking, streamlining the decision-making process for agents.

“Being able to move quickly is so important when it comes to creating the perfect booking,” said Sophie Howse, Chief Commercial Officer at onefinestay.

“Our new online Partner Portal speeds things up, as well as offering a seamless, self-sufficient process for Travel Advisors. Advisors are such an important part of our business; we hope they enjoy browsing, and booking, our homes with ease.”

The portal’s self-service functionality is designed with speed and ease-of-use in mind. A feedback form is integrated to ensure ongoing improvement based on advisor experiences and suggestions.

Becky Robinson, a travel advisor at Departure Lounge, tested the platform ahead of launch. “I love the look of the new onefinestay Partner Portal, and it’s so easy to use,” she said. “It will make searching for homes, villas and chalets much easier and quicker.”

The launch coincides with a wave of new homes being added to onefinestay’s global collection, including properties in Paris, London, New York, Los Angeles, Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, the Caribbean, and Thailand.

The Partner Portal is open to all current travel advisors working with onefinestay. Those interested in joining the network are encouraged to visit the Travel Partners page for more information.

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The double launch of boutique private jet charter services and an instant quote feature from broker Platinum Jets gives affluent travellers access to more than 7,000 private jets around the world in just a few clicks.

Available at its website, the new feature enables clients to explore aircraft options and pricing online, before working with a dedicated charter specialist to finalise details of their trip.

The double launch brings a new level of convenience to private aviation, according to Platinum Jets, enabling clients to receive real-time quotes, compare aircraft types and start planning their journeys in just “a few clicks”.

“We are thrilled to officially launch Platinum Jets and introduce our Instant Quote system to the market,” said David Bungay, Founder of Platinum Jets.

“Our goal is to simplify private jet travel while maintaining the highest standards of service and flexibility. We want our clients to feel that wherever they are going, we have the right aircraft and team ready for them.”

With the company not tied to a specific fleet, it can offer “complete flexibility” in sourcing the idea aircraft to suit each client’s needs. Solutions available include light jets for shorter trips or large cabin long-range aircraft. “Whether arranging a last-minute flight from London to Dubai or coordinating a summer holiday itinerary across Europe, the process is now faster, smarter, and more transparent,” the company said.

Platinum Jets also offers service that goes “beyond the booking” with a dedicated charter manager to handle all aspects of the journey, from in-flight dining, ground transport, bespoke on-the-ground experiences and luxury accommodation in the form of villa rentals, five-star hotels and yacht charters

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Four Seasons has unveiled Phase 1 of its first four journeys in its 2027 collection of Private Jet Experience itineraries. The itineraries will introduce new destinations including Cartagena, Colombia and Tamarindo, Mexico alongside guest favourites such as the Serengeti, Antarctica, Paris, Tokyo, Bangkok and Dubai.

“For 10 years, the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience has redefined luxury travel, merging our ambitious spirit of innovation with deeply personal journeys that forge lasting connections with our guests,” said Marc Speichert, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Four Seasons.

“The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience continues to inspire and attract the world’s most discerning travellers, earning their trust and loyalty. With 100% of surveyed guests saying they would likely travel with us again and 2025 occupancy pacing ahead of last year, the excitement for our 2027 journeys speaks to the enduring power of personalised and thoughtfully curated experiences.”

Each of the itineraries is capped at 48 travellers per departure.

2027 Roster so far

Uncharted Discovery (20 January – 9 February 2027), starting at US$234,000 per person

This enhanced journey now begins in Los Angeles to maximise ease of travel and jet lag recovery for east-to-west travellers. It introduces new stops in Tamarindo and Cartagena, along with access to Machu Picchu and an unforgettable Antarctic expedition. Embrace Costa Rica’s “pura vida” lifestyle at Four Seasons luxurious coastal retreat on the Papagayo Peninsula, a serene paradise of golden shores and tropical jungles. Destinations include Los Angeles, Tamarindo, Machu Picchu, Buenos Aires, Antarctica, Cartagena and Costa Rica.

Asia Unveiled (11 – 26 February 2027), starting at US$167,000 per person

Tailored for today’s time-conscious traveller, Asia Unveiled balances rich culinary encounters such as visiting Tokyo’s Tsukiji Outer Market with a Michelin-distinguished chef to handpick fresh ingredients for a sushi-making class, alongside cultural discoveries like creating a bonsai at the Shunkaen Bonsai Museum. The journey also offers moments of tranquillity on a private coral island in the Maldives. Travellers can raft Bali’s longest river, ascend the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and delve into Japan’s samurai traditions. Destinations include Tokyo, Bali, Angkor Wat, Hoi An, Bhutan, Maldives and Bangkok.

International Intrigue (3 – 23 March 2027), starting at US$230,000 per person 

International Intrigue spans multiple continents, remote island paradises, vibrant cultural capitals and the natural wonders of the African savannah. Experience a blessing ceremony at Kyoto’s iconic Fushimi Inasari Shrine, a sunset dolphin cruise in the Maldives, a guided tour through Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, and access to Florence’s Cathedral of Stana Maria del Fiore, including the ancient workshop where Michelangelo carved his renowned statue of David. Destinations include Seattle, Kyoto, Hoi An, Maldives, Serengeti, Marrakech, Florence and Paris.

Timeless Encounters (15 April – 6 May 2027), starting at US$235,000 per person 

A perennial favourite among repeat guests, this around-the-world experience combines iconic cities like London, Prague and Dubai with exclusive access to cultural treasures and global landmarks such as the Taj Mahal. Enjoy a tour of the Sydney Opera House and take in a breathtaking sunset from the 122nd floor of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Destinations include Kona, Bora Bora, Sydney, Bali, Chiang Mai, Dubai, Taj Mahal, Prague and London.

Luxury in Flight: The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience

At the heart of every journey is the custom-designed Airbus A321neo-LR, fully customided for the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience featuring one of the most spacious cabins in its class. On board, a hand-selected team — including a dedicated Journey Concierge, Director of Guest Experience, Executive Chef and Journey Physician — ensures every moment before, during, and after the journey is seamlessly orchestrated with the brand’s signature service and attention to detail.

View the trips here.

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White Desert, Antarctica’s leading expedition company, has released The Dr. Jones Collection, which will kick off in September 2025. The first of a series of new South American itineraries, the program begins with a trip from Peru to Patagonia.

Venturing outside of the polar regions for the first time, these bespoke journeys combine the glamour of 1940s aviation and movie-set adventure. Guests will travel on a luxuriously refitted ‘Dakota’ aircraft which can land on highly remote airstrips. This enables them to access some of the least explored locations on the continent, seamlessly and in style.

Each destination has been specifically chosen because it is nearly unknown, and guests will experience an array of utterly diverse landscapes in just 12 days.

Starting point: Peru. By the towering waterfall of Gocta, the third highest in the World, guests hike through Amazonian cloud forests to discover ancient mummies. A short flight and they are at our newly-created Dune Camp, nestled beside an incredible oasis, where they can dive for prized fan shells.

Amongst the salt flats of the Atacama Desert, guests have access to unparalleled star gazing before hiking through a canyon to volcanic hot springs. In Patagonia, at the Torres del Paine, they ride horses with authentic gauchos, encircled by tumbling glaciers that cascade into the open sea.

“Just as we have done in Antarctica, I wanted to create a journey that was as adventurous as it was luxurious — and in Dr. Jones, we have found the perfect balance,” said Patrick Woodhead, Founder of White Desert.

“Even on the reconnaissance for the journey, we visited landscapes that I never knew existed. They were just so surreal!”

Highly experienced pilots and crew, along with a White Desert guide, accompany guests every step of the journey, ensuring a level of comfort and safety one can expect from a world-class Antarctic operator with 20 years of experience.

The itinerary is limited to just 12 guests.

Three Dr. Jones adventures are being offered beginning from September. Prices start at US$49,950 per person.

For more information and expressions of interest, go to white-desert.com/dr-jones

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The launch of a series of private jet expeditions around the globe will see the long-standing partnership between Aman and Remote Lands continue into 2026.

Some of the world’s most spectacular destinations feature among the carefully crafted itineraries, along with multinight stays at Aman properties.

“From the serene temples of Kyoto to the vibrant souks of Marrakech, the new expeditions provide an unparalleled opportunity for cultural immersion, adventure and serenity,” Aman said.

With each journey limited to an intimate group of 16 to 18 guests, the itineraries centre on unique encounters and insider access to iconic landmarks and remote wonders.

Among the itineraries is the 13-night Discover Southeast Asia through Vietnam to Bangkok which returns twice in 2026 from 22 February to 7 March 2026 and from 1 to 14 November 2026.

“Guests will enjoy exclusive stays in five (or six) Aman properties, savouring the remote coastal paradise of Vinh Hy Bay, immersing in the timeless spirituality of Luang Prabang and exploring Angkor’s magnificent ruins before unwinding on Phuket’s pristine shores and experiencing the urban dynamism of Bangkok at Aman’s newest retreat,” Aman said. “The expedition can also be extended to incorporate a stay at Amankora in Bhutan, on of Aman’s most remote destinations, with seamless direct flights from the Thai capital.”

Another itinerary featured is the Grandest Tour which takes place across 20 nights from 12 April, returning after a sell-out 2025. Beginning in the sprawling metropolis of Tokyo, this adventure also takes in the pristine coasts of Vietnam and Thailand, the wilds of India’s Rajasthan and the ancient marvels of the Silk Road, finishing up on Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula.

The China’s UNESCO Treasures itinerary will take place from 31 May to 12 June 2026 making its return after a long hiatus. Among the wonders to be discovered are China’s Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors and protected streets of Old Town Lijiang as well as the peaceful serenity of Hangzhou’s tea plantations and the leafy suburbs of outer Shanghai.

Meanwhile, three nights in Dubai have been added to the Around the World in Three Continents offering which takes in the tropics of Asia, the palazzos of Europe and he sous of North Africa over 21 nights, from 11 October to 1 November 2026.

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Four Seasons Private Jet Experience is cashing in on the success of latest season of The White Lotus, announcing a new World of Wellness journey. The itinerary builds on a global partnership struck between Four Seasons and HBO.

The 20-day private jet itinerary is being offered for one exclusive journey, touching down in Maui, Taormina and Koh Samui – filming locations of the first three seasons of acclaimed series – along with five additional intriguing destinations that will allow guests to create their very own memorable storylines.

“We’ve experienced firsthand how The White Lotus has fuelled the set-jetting trend, inspiring travellers to explore the breathtaking Four Seasons properties that served as backdrops for this beloved series,” says Marc Speichert, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Four Seasons.

“Now, with the third season captivating audiences, we are thrilled to provide guests with the opportunity to experience their own version of The White Lotus aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience, blending their love of the series with the bucket-list journeys we offer in the sky.”

The World of Wellness itinerary is designed to celebrate the cultural phenomenon of The White Lotus and some of the iconic settings of its storylines, along with other compelling global destinations. With wellbeing playing its own role in the third series, guests aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet Experience can explore wellness their way, with fully personalised itineraries to enrich mind, body and soul as they travel from one destination to the next.

Whether indulging in a spa treatment, looking for an adrenaline rush, or simply lounging with a cocktail in hand, guests can dream up their own wellness itinerary suited to their wishes.

“The World of Wellness itinerary was crafted to meet the desire of guests, knowing that more and more, travellers are influenced by the locations they enjoy on their screens,” continues Speichert. “This new journey is perfectly curated to meet this demand. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we can’t wait to take flight in 2026.”

The Four Seasons Private Jet Experience offers a seamless end-to-end journey aboard a custom-designed Airbus A321 with stops in some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, this time with a focus on personalized wellness. On the ground and in the air, guests will enjoy Four Seasons legendary service, access to local adventures and experiences, and personalised care from a dedicated team.

World of Wellness will take 48 guests to eight iconic destinations from 7 to 26 May 2026. Travelling aboard the custom-designed Airbus A321 Four Seasons Private Jet, guests will take off from Singapore, before journeying onwards to Koh Samui, the Maldives, Taormina, Marrakech, Nevis, Mexico City, and completing the journey in Maui – all with stays exclusively at Four Seasons hotels and resorts.

Highlights include three nights at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui in Thailand. Guests will have the opportunity to snorkel with guidance from an expert marine biologist, take part in Muay Thai training at the property’s iconic boxing ring set in the hills with 240-degree views of the ocean and jungle, and enjoy spa treatments inspired by the Resort’s tropical surroundings and rooted in Thai traditions.

In Taormina, Sicily, which served as a setting in season two, guests will enjoy three nights at San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel, cycling to picturesque wineries around Mount Etna, morning yoga in the Belvedere Gardens, and creating one’s own TV-worthy scenes strolling through the pebble stone streets and back alleys of the historic town, enjoying the many culinary delights at every corner.

Along the way, each destination is ripe for discovery to suit each guest’s own needs, starting with a welcome dinner in Singapore, where guests will taste firsthand why the country is known as a culinary paradise. In the Maldives, discover the magic of a Night Spa ritual performed under the stars, snorkel the coral reef, and embark on a turtle safari, or spend the day lounging amid the turquoise waters surrounding the Resort.

Spend a day discovering the cultural secrets of Marrakech amid the ancient medinas, followed by a relaxing private hammam bath experience with a clay scrub from the Atlas Mountains for full-body exfoliation and soothing. In Nevis, rejuvenate at the island’s natural hot springs, and in Mexico City, take part in a traditional temazcal (house of heat) ceremony, take in sunrise views from a hot-air balloon or enjoy a cocktail in the hotel’s world-renowned bar, Fifty Mils.

The trip will conclude where the The White Lotus began, with two nights at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, offering guests the opportunity to explore the coast on an outrigger canoe and unwind at the end of a memorable journey through the traditions of deep-rooted Hawaiian culture in a lomi lomi massage.

The Fours Seasons Private Jet Experience World of Wellness itinerary is priced at US$188,000 (approximately AU$299,000) per person twin share.

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Abercrombie & Kent is offering a complimentary nine-night Crystal cruise for guests who book the AU$226,465 per person Ancient Kingdoms & Dynasties: A Journey by Private Jet departing later this year.

The exclusive pairing blends the thrill of exploring the world’s most captivating destinations by private jet with the refined elegance of Crystal’s ocean voyages.

The back-to-back itinerary begins in Barcelona, where guests embark on a nine-night Crystal cruise aboard Crystal Symphony (25 September – 4 October 2025), exploring Spain and its islands, Morocco and Portugal from the comfort of a Sapphire Veranda Suite.

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In Lisbon, no more than 48 guests then board the A&K Private Jet for a 25-day global expedition to nine countries across three continents to explore the monuments and great civilisations that shaped our world today. Travel back in time while exploring Tanzania’s Stone Town, the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Oman, India’s spectacular temples, the Angkor complex in Cambodia, and more, ending in Malta with a traditional musical parade given in honour of A&K’s Private Jet guests.

“As sister companies under A&K Travel Group (AKTG), this unprecedented collaboration between A&K and Crystal offers travellers a unique opportunity to experience the pinnacle of both air and sea adventures in one extraordinary experience,” said Ann Epting, Senior Vice President, Private Jet & Special Interest Travel.

Additionally, A&K has announced the addition of two new special guests who illuminate the experience and bring the destinations to life. The host on this journey is A&K Brand Ambassador Fernando Barroso de Oliveira. From polar expeditions and hosted land journeys to countless Crystal cruises, his formidable expertise and unique zest for life set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. In addition, foreign correspondent and editor Martin Regg Cohn will be conducting lectures and sharing his insights with guests. With extensive experience reporting from over 40 countries and interviewing luminaries ranging from the Dalai Lama to Benjamin Netanyahu, his wealth of experience in Asia and the Middle East makes him the ideal companion on the Ancient Kingdoms & Dynasties Journey.

For more details on the itinerary, click here.

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