The Most Crowded Weeks in the Sky
The period from mid-December to early January is the busiest of the year for private aviation in many regions. Families head to ski resorts, Caribbean islands, the Gulf, the Maldives and their second homes at the same time. Demand concentrates on the same few days, usually just before Christmas and just after New Year.
Why Aircraft Run Out
- Peak days overlap. Many families want to leave on the same 2 or 3 days.
- One-way trips. Aircraft drop families at destinations and must fly back empty, reducing availability.
- Owners use their own aircraft. Some aircraft normally available for charter are reserved by their owners.
- Crew limits. Duty-time rules cap how much each crew can fly.
- Airport restrictions. Popular destinations, from Courchevel to St Barths, have strict slot and parking limits.
The Price Effect
With demand high, operators may apply holiday pricing, minimum daily charges or minimum stays. Late bookers often face higher prices, fewer aircraft categories and less convenient departure times.
How to Secure Holiday Travel
- Confirm the family’s dates now, even if details are still moving.
- Be flexible by a day. Leaving a day earlier or later can unlock better aircraft.
- Consider alternative airports. Geneva rather than Chambéry, St Maarten rather than St Barths for the long-haul leg.
- Book round trips with the same operator to reduce repositioning costs.
- Coordinate the whole journey: jet, helicopter, car and yacht.
A Note for Executive Assistants
Many holiday plans change in December. Ask your charter partner about change and cancellation terms before signing. Holding a confirmed aircraft with clear flexibility is far better than chasing one in the final week.
The Takeaway
Holiday private aviation follows a simple rule: the earlier you book, the more you control. In November, you choose the aircraft. In late December, the aircraft chooses you.
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