6 luxury private jets offering 5-star ‘air cruises’ around the world: from Four Seasons’ A321neo to National Geographic’s Boeing 757, and White Desert’s A340 to Antarctica

Sep 1 , 2023

Private jets can take passengers across the globe while being equipped with five-star services and amenities. Photos: Handout

It’s not just luxury yacht cruises that the ultra wealthy are splashing out on – these days, it’s all about ‘air cruises’ that take VIPs on multi-day trips across the globe

Abercrombie & Kent’s Boeing 757 includes an on-board iPad for entertainment, Safrans du Monde’s Airbus A340 quad-jet promises lots of room, and White Desert’s A340 private jet used to fly for Emirates

In March 1923, over 400 deep-pocket travellers arrived back in New York City after spending 130 days at sea on board the world’s first around-the-globe cruise.

A hundred years later, the ultra-wealthy are still voyaging around the world in style – but many have traded in the half-year boat ride for a three-week private jet trip.

Luxury brands including Abercrombie & Kent, Safrans du Monde, TCS World Travel, National Geographic and Four Seasons all offer multi-day “air cruises” that fly to nearly every corner of the globe.

“Air cruises” are a popular travel trend for the ultra-rich right now. Photo: Handout

And, for the most part, these companies aren’t using purpose-built private planes from manufacturers like Gulfstream and Bombardier – but rather large Boeing and Airbus jetliners complete with first class accommodation for every passenger.

These high-end experiences aren’t cheap, though. Customers are spending six figures on the all-inclusive tours, which include flights, meals, excursions and upscale hotels.

The niche market has been growing thanks to a post-pandemic rise in private aviation – and people are willing to pay up to avoid the hassles of commercial travel.

There is plenty of legroom on board the luxurious private jets. Photo: Handout

According to A&K, its September 2023 tour to Africa, which starts at US$134,500, is completely sold out. Global tours operated by TCS and Four Seasons and scheduled to depart this autumn are also wait-listed.

Granted, the specially modified aircraft can only carry a few dozen people at one time, jacking up the price. But the exclusivity is part of the allure. Take a look at five of these private planes.

6 luxury private jets offering 5-star ‘air cruises’ around the world: from Four Seasons’ A321neo to National Geographic’s Boeing 757, and White Desert’s A340 to Antarctica

1. Airbus A321neo