Costco is selling a 12-month private jet service membership for $17,499.99. The wholesale company promotes that the initiative will help transport individuals, families, and companies across North America.
What’s part of the package?
The Wheels Up private aviation membership includes a $3,500 Costco Shop Card and $4,000 flight credit. Those who purchase the subscription will receive membership via email.
Costco states that customers will receive guaranteed nationwide aircraft availability up to 365 days a year with as little as 24 hours of notice. There are added benefits with the subscription, including a complimentary one-year Inspirato membership for luxury vacations.
A lot to choose from
The firm highlights that customers will receive dedicated account management and access to an extensive fleet of jets. All of these planes can be booked up by using the Wheels Up App.
“Wheels Up is a leading private aviation company that delivers a total aviation solution for over 9,000 individuals, families, and businesses across North America. Its membership options significantly reduce the up-front cost to fly privately and enable a member to book a private plane as easily as a ride share or short-term vacation rental,” Costco says on its website.
“Wheels Up provides access to one of the world’s largest owned and managed fleets of private aircraft, totaling over 300 planes- as well as a fleet of 1,250+ Wheels Up-approved partner aircraft ranging from Light to Large-Cabin Jets. All members can also attend exclusive events and take advantage of a suite of hospitality, lifestyle, and retail benefits from some of the world’s preeminent brands.”
Could be a beneficial solution
Wheels Up is an aviation outfit that was founded in 2013 and focused on a membership model. The New York City-based business draws a likening to on-demand rental systems such as Zipcar. Following the group’s acquisitions of Delta Private Jets, Travel Management Company, and Gama Aviation Signature, it is now the second-largest private aircraft operator in the United States, behind NetJets.
Altogether, Costco has partnered with a strong company in the market. So, those that choose to purchase this subscription should expect good service.
The global health crisis has caused massive shifts in the landscape within the aviation industry this year. Commercial aviation is continuing to go through a challenging time with a severe passenger downturn amid public concerns and government restrictions. As a result, several travelers are turning to private solutions. Therefore, a subscription model such as this could be attractive for many fliers in the current climate.
What are your thoughts about Costco selling a private jet subscription? Would you be willing to try out such a service? Let us know what you think of the initiative in the comment section.
