The attempt to maintain a lower profile, however, hasn’t stopped travelers from upping the ante in terms of luxuries.
Just as with yachts and other toys of the super-rich, private jets are getting increasingly more opulent in terms of comfort and on-board luxuries.
“Rather than asking the captain to turn up the heat, owners can adjust the temperature, lighting and entertainment options from their iPhone,” Banglesdorf said.
Although supersonic jets are not launching for another eight to 10 years, plenty of the wealthy have already ordered one.
Supersonic jets travel 80 percent faster than a Gulfstream and cost $120 million, according to Aerion Corporation’s Jeff Miller.
“We won’t certify and deliver to customers until 2023,” Miller told Private Wealth.
Aerion’s AS2 supersonic business jet seats 12 passengers and must undergo flight-testing and approvals by the Federal Aviation Administration before Aerion can fill advance orders. The fractional jet ownership company Flexjet contracted with Aerion to purchase 20 supersonic AS2 jets.
“The Aerion AS2 is a genuine game-changer for international travel, providing the world’s only commercially available supersonic transportation, enabling travelers to have breakfast with their family in New York, enjoy a business lunch in London and be back home to help their children with their homework,” said Michael Silvestro, CEO of Flexjet.
Ehang has unveiled the first single-passenger drone that’s controlled by a tablet and capable of flying 60 miles per hour. The Chinese entrepreneurs indicate the first models will range in price from $200,000 to $300,000.
“You won’t need a pilot’s license to fly yourself,” Banglesdorf said. “If this takes off, it will change everything in the transportation industry, not just aviation.”
Private pilot Albert Goldson expects that the ultra-wealthy will add passenger drones to their treasure chest of gadgets and expensive toys, but without replacing their privately owned jet.