Luxury Travel Takes Off: 19% of Air Travelers Upgrade to First-Class or Private Jets

Luxury Travel Takes Off: 19% of Air Travelers Upgrade to First-Class or Private Jets

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As the holiday season approaches, our latest research reveals surprising trends in luxury travel: Nearly 1 in 5 air travelers have opted for premium experiences. But who exactly is splurging on first-class seats and private jets?

Our study explores generational differences, spending habits, and other factors influencing air travel choices. Based on a survey of over 1,000 Americans planning holiday travel for 2024, this article uncovers the motivations behind these high-end experiences and what they could mean for the travel industry. From Gen Z's unexpected lead in luxury upgrades to the average splurge amount, get ready to find out how America is reimagining holiday travel.

Key Takeaways

• 79% of holiday travelers plan to travel by air this season, with nearly 1 in 5 upgrading to luxury travel options like first-class or private jets.
• Gen Z air travelers (23%) are leading the trend in upgrading to luxury travel — more than any other generation.
• Price is the top priority for air travelers, with 58% considering it the most important factor.
• Nearly 2 in 5 holiday travelers plan to splurge this season, with an average spend of $2,600 and 22% intending to spend over $5,000.
• 55% of holiday travelers have indulged in premium experiences or luxury trips they couldn't afford.
• YOLO travel is trending: Nearly 1 in 3 Americans (31%) are embracing "you only live once" trips this holiday season.

Taking to the Skies for the Holidays

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• 79% of holiday travelers plan to travel by air this season, with nearly 1 in 5 upgrading to luxury travel options like first-class or private jets. Gen Z is the most likely generation to have upgraded to luxury travel (23%).
• Gen Z (20%) is the most likely generation to plan international flights this holiday season, while millennials (68%) are the most likely to prefer domestic travel.
• Percentage of holiday air travelers planning to upgrade to luxury travel by generation:
• Gen X: 20%
• Millennials: 19%
• Gen Z: 23%
• Price is the top priority among all air travelers when flying (58%), followed by comfort (24%). Luxury air travelers care less about price (37%) and more about comfort (32%) than the average flyer.
• Factors driving Americans' decisions to skip air travel this holiday season:
• High costs of flights: 68%
• Prefer driving: 51%
• To avoid holiday stress: 39%
• To avoid crowded airports: 32%
• To avoid flight delays and cancellations: 23%

Luxury Holiday Spending

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• YOLO spending is trending: Nearly 1 in 3 Americans (31%) are embracing "you only live once" trips this holiday season.
• Nearly 40% of holiday travelers plan to splurge this season, spending an average of $2,600; 22% intend to spend over $5,000.
• How much Americans planning to splurge on holiday travel this year intend to spend on each holiday:
• New Year's Eve: $3,164
• Christmas: $2,643
• Thanksgiving: $2,244
• 55% of holiday travelers have indulged in premium experiences or luxury trips they couldn't afford. This includes 59% of Gen X, 56% of millennials, and 49% of Gen Z.
• New Year's holiday travelers (48%) are the most likely to seek out Michelin-star dining or exclusive culinary experiences.
• New Year's holiday travelers (25%) are the most likely to seek out VIP events, private parties, or exclusive gatherings.

Methodology

We surveyed 1,006 Americans planning to travel for the 2024 holiday season. Of the respondents, 19% were Gen Z, 54% were millennials, 22% were Gen X, and 5% were baby boomers. The gender breakdown was 48% women, 51% men, and 1% non-binary individuals. The data was collected in September 2024.

About Jettly

Jettly simplifies private jet booking, offering access to a diverse range of aircraft. Our emphasis on personalized service and cost-effective pricing ensures a tailored travel experience.

Fair Use Statement

You're welcome to share the insights from our luxury travel study, but please credit us by linking back to this page.

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