“I flew on Set Jet, where flights on private jets cost the same as typical airlines’ first class, and saw why it’s one of aviation’s best kept secrets”
Written content from Thomas Pallini
Flying on a private jet is the very pinnacle of air travel and has traditionally been reserved for the ultra-wealthy, until now.
Set Jet is a Scottsdale, Arizona-based private aviation firm that offers by-the-seat private jet flights on routes across the American West. The idea isn’t new but its founders say they’ve found a way to make the service consistent, safe, and profitable.
Fares are only between $449.95 and $489.95 one-way on most routes but only pre-approved members can book flights. A monthly membership costs $99 and flyers have to pay a one-time security fee of $99.
From Scottsdale, Set Jet’s route network includes locales like Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, Burbank, and the Bay Area in California, as well as Las Vegas. And the firm soon plans to fly cross-country flights between New York and Los Angeles.
Seasonal routes to popular vacation destinations including Aspen, Colorado and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, are also offered at a higher premium.
I joined Set Jet on one of its exclusive members-only flights from Scottsdale to San Diego on a Bombardier Challenger 850 aircraft. Here’s what it was like.
I arrived for my flight at Set Jet’s member lounge, located at the company’s headquarters adjacent to Scottsdale Airport, rather than a private terminal.
Set Jet just finished construction on this facility to give members a more exclusive experience.
Upon entry, flyers go through this “security checkpoint,” where metal detectors will flag any items that require further inspection. There are no Transportation Security Administration officers doing pat-downs or bag checks, however, and passengers just walk through.
Once on the other side, the cabin attendant checks passengers in for the flight.
First-time flyers only have to show identification once and then it’s saved into Set Jet’s system for future travels.
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