The Jet Merchants Company Profile

Background

The Jet Merchants is an independent private aviation advisory firm dedicated to assisting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and businesses in optimizing their private aviation solutions. The company emphasizes transparency and fee-based consulting to ensure clients receive tailored advice that aligns with their specific needs.

Key Strategic Focus

The Jet Merchants specializes in providing comprehensive private aviation advisory services, including:

Private Jet Charter: Offering access to a global network of safety-vetted operators, ensuring clients have a wide range of aircraft options to suit their travel requirements.

Jet Card Programs: Evaluating and recommending jet card programs that align with clients' travel patterns and preferences.

Aircraft Management: Assisting clients in selecting the right aircraft management companies to oversee the operation and maintenance of their private jets.

Fractional and Whole Aircraft Ownership: Providing guidance on the benefits and considerations of fractional versus whole aircraft ownership, helping clients make informed decisions.

Consulting Services: Offering expert advice on various aspects of private aviation, including cost analysis, safety standards, and operational efficiency.

Financials and Funding

As a privately held firm, The Jet Merchants does not publicly disclose its financial information or funding history.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The Jet Merchants leverages a proprietary sourcing platform with instant wholesale booking capabilities, enabling fast and accurate pricing for clients. This technology ensures efficient matching of client needs with available aircraft, enhancing the overall booking experience.

Leadership Team

Luis Garcia serves as the Founder and CEO of The Jet Merchants. His professional background includes:

Volato: Served as Executive Vice President and Head of Sales, overseeing sales, marketing, product development, and partnerships. Volato offers jet cards and fractional shares on new HondaJets and G280s.

Wheels Up: Joined in 2015 as Regional Vice President of Sales, later promoted to Senior Vice President Sales Manager, leading new business sales for the western United States.

Starbase Jet: Founding employee, contributing to the company's growth from a single Lear 60 to a fleet of over 35 jets. Held roles in charter, flight operations, vendor relations, and ultimately served as Senior Vice President of Charter Sales & Aircraft Management.

Colt International: Managed global trip support services for corporations and charter companies, including customs arrangements, flight planning, and security services.

Luis holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from Louisiana Tech University, obtained in 2004.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The private aviation industry has experienced significant growth, with a global fleet of approximately 22,125 business jets as of March 31, 2019. The market is predominantly concentrated in North America, which accounts for 64.6% of the fleet, followed by Europe at 13.0%.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the private aviation advisory and services sector include:

NetJets: A subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, NetJets offers fractional ownership and jet card programs, operating a large fleet of various aircraft types.

Flexjet: Established in 1995, Flexjet provides fractional jet ownership, leasing, and charter memberships, catering to clients seeking luxury private travel experiences.

XOJET Aviation LLC: A subsidiary of Vista Global, XOJET offers on-demand private jet charters with fixed-price membership programs, providing alternatives to traditional jet cards and fractional ownership.

JetSmarter: Before its acquisition by Vista Global in 2019, JetSmarter provided a mobile application connecting users to available aircraft and routes, offering a mix of shared and private flights.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The Jet Merchants collaborates with a robust network of resource partners to provide seamless travel support and personal security services worldwide. These partnerships enhance the company's ability to offer comprehensive and secure private aviation solutions to its clients.

Operational Insights

The Jet Merchants differentiates itself through its commitment to transparency, personalized service, and leveraging proprietary technology to streamline the booking process. By focusing on tailored solutions and maintaining independence from specific operators, the company ensures that client interests remain the top priority.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The Jet Merchants aims to expand its advisory services by:

Enhancing Technological Capabilities: Continuously improving its proprietary platform to offer more efficient and user-friendly booking experiences.

Expanding Global Reach: Strengthening partnerships with international operators to provide clients with a broader range of options worldwide.

Diversifying Service Offerings: Exploring additional services such as aircraft acquisition consulting and specialized travel packages to meet evolving client needs.