Luxaviation UK is helping clients enjoy long distance escapes this winter. The company is receiving an unusually high number of requests for long haul charter flights to destinations including the Caribbean, South Africa and the Middle East.

CEO George Galanopoulos says: “Although short-haul flights to open European ski resorts are in demand this year, and we're always delighted to be serving that market, many clients are choosing to fly further afield this winter instead. People are acting on the fact long-haul air corridors are more likely to stay open than short-haul corridors in these challenging times. Many of the most popular destinations this winter are in countries where governments were quick to act against coronavirus and ensure a secure environment for tourists. The tight travel restrictions in Europe at the moment, and the uncertainty over when and how those restrictions might suddenly change, are influencing decisions. After such a difficult 2020, people are booking winter breaks earlier than usual this year, aiming to secure flights and accommodation for a well-earned holiday as soon as possible as we come out of lockdown in the UK.

“We're seeing particularly high demand for flights to properties run by our partner Art de Vivre, specialists in designer villa and chalet rentals. Villa Praslin and Cousine Island in the Seychelles, for example, are outstanding destinations for winter holidays, and our Seychelles FBO is offering a full range of support services for private jets."

Fully staffed and catered, Villa Praslin delivers guests a luxury beachfront stay including an infinity pool. Guests in the villas of the private Cousine Island can enjoy experiences from helicopter tours and water sports to nature walks.

Galanopoulos continues: “Popular locations such as St Maarten are busy welcoming travellers to the kind of relaxed, secure isolation we all want at the moment. In these times of social distancing and the need to minimise human interactions, private jet travel offers the comfort and security of flying in a 'bubble' of family and friends. After a year of travelling far less than usual because of COVID-19, many clients are willing to invest more than normal on their winter break this year; another reason why long-haul flights are generating such interest. Spending on safe and secure luxury right now is money well spent.”

Alongside the high demand for winter sunshine, traditional Christmas breaks remain popular. Luxaviation UK is also enjoying many enquiries and requests for travel to destinations such as Lapland, where Octola Private Wilderness offers a lodge experience.