FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - Advice on creating private jet frequent flyer program
Old Dec 21, 2010 | 11:29 pm
  #10  
Jazzop
 
Join Date: Nov 2007
Programs: Mile-High Club, Marriott Plt, SPG P-75, PC Plt, Hyatt Dia, Carlson Gold, BW Dia
Posts: 1,845
Originally Posted by Circumknowitall
I would be wary of creating 'tiers' in a frequent flyer program for private jets. If I were to hire a private jet I would like to think that I was getting the 'ultimate' in priority, attention, rewards etc. If this is not the case and there is a tier above me, then the experience would be 'cheapened' somewhat.
The pax are also going to wonder why they aren't already receiving all the various in-flight amenities that you are offering for redemption awards.

I don't know what airframes you are operating, but the in-flight spa services, which probably require an additional crewmember to provide, will be a source of continual frustration to your customers when you say "We can't bring the massage therapist because of weight & balance issues." And what happens when you get to your destination with a beautician on board, then the pax decides he wants to go to Timbuktu ASAP, but the fuel requirement won't accommodate the beautician? Or if the pax decides to bring along someone else from that intermediate stop? Even if you get a simple, 1-way trip with a pax who wants a spa treatment, the extra person will limit your ability to pick up business from that destination airport. And finally, in any of these cases, you might not be able to boot the spa technician off to fly commercially, depending on where you are. Oil fields in Canada or Montana ranch towns don't exactly have convenient or cheap air carrier service. That is why these pax are hiring your jet in the first place, isn't it?

Also, what is your business model, because I'd love to know how you are able to eke out big enough profit margins to afford to give out these perks by flying charters. I know the business and know how razor-thin margins are (excluding fractionals and corporate flight depts).

Speaking of razor-thin margins, you wouldn't be ignoring the financial liability assumed by giving out all these points/miles because you are already looking to sell the company or file for bankruptcy, are you? All FF programs are usually "subject to modification or termination at any time," so I hope this isn't a last-ditch attempt to drum up business by pulling the plug. You will have some angry (former) customers, then.
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