Bahrain Grand Prix drives demand for private aviation services across the Middle East

In the lead up to the major sporting event, being held from April 2 to 4, there has been a rush from race-goers for seats on flights to Bahrain from locations around the region. But for many people in the region that did not get their seats early, they are discovering the hard way that most flights to Bahrain are fully booked - and have been for many months.

"The Middle East's entire airline industry will be running at peak capacity for the week surrounding the premier racing event. Airports, airlines and hotels are going to be very busy, as thousands of people descend on the region for this world-class sporting event, both from within the region and from outside" said Khadar Mattar, sales director, ExecuJet Middle East.

"It is going to be an exciting time, and the industry will get the opportunity to demonstrate how organized and efficient our operations are. At ExecuJet, we started planning for the anticipated rush several months ago. With a strong plan in place, we are in a position to give our customers the highest standards of service," said Mattar.

In response to customer demand, ExecuJet has involved its entire fleet in operations to fly avid sports fans to Bahrain during the "rush" period. Additionally, the private carrier has scheduled an effective "shuttle" service for one major customer, with one of its airplanes involved in repeated flights to the island, to ensure the maximum number of people can attend the event.

"For the week leading up to the Grand Prix, the three days of the event, and for about two days following the final race, we're seeing huge demand for charter flights. We have gone to great lengths to provide our customers with a quality, secure service to Bahrain," said Mattar.

Another factor contributing to the boost in demand, cited by travel industry experts, includes the premium rates of hotel accommodation. "With hotel rates running at an all-time high in Bahrain, many of the people flying with ExecuJet have opted to return to their home city on the same day as flying out."

The flexibility, convenience and luxury of private aviation have been highlighted by the Grand Prix, as customers look for bespoke services that enable them to reach the destination of their choice on their own timetable. "Not only are our customers assured of flight availability, but they also get to arrive at one of the most exciting events in the region in a luxurious style," added Mattar.

ExecuJet Middle East is the first independent business aviation service provider to have received an air operators' certificate from the UAE civil aviation authority. It provides a total set of aviation services associated with the sale, operation, management, charter and support of modern high-technology business jets in the Middle East.