Jetsmarter launches Charterhope allowing infirm to travel private

I connected with Sergey founder of Jetsmarter the private club for private jet travel. We spoke about what inspired him to start the business, Charterhope, investors, member events and his vision for Jetsmarter going forward. I am a member myself and have found it a game changer for both my personal and business travel.

1. What inspired you to start Jet Smarter?

a. In 2009 when I began flying private, I quickly came to realize that the private jet industry was very archaic; its brick and mortar process of picking up the phone, waiting hours and speaking to numerous different people in order to charter a jet was outdated and inconvenient. In 2012, I spoke to the carriers I had established relationships with and discussed how large of an impact an app to charter a private plane would have on the industry. In August 2012, I made it a reality and created the beta version of JetSmarter, sharing it with an exclusive group of industry experts and frequent private jet users. In March 2013, JetSmarter launched globally.

2. Share with us the opportunity members have to give back and provide travel for people in need?

a. We recently launched a charitable initiative called #CharterHope that allows members to send private charters to bring immunocompromised infants home for the first time. Many of America’s most vulnerable babies are often born at specialty hospitals thousands of miles from their homes. And due to complications or medical conditions, even the common cold could be life-threatening. This makes a crowded commercial flight home a real reason for worry. Through the #CharterHope initiative, JetSmarter members can donate flight credit towards the creation of private charters. These private flights allow families and their immunocompromised newborns to avoid crowded commercial airports and fly home worry-free.

3. You recently got some additional investment please fill us in?

a. We recently announced our series C funding raise of $105 million, at a $1.5 billion pre-money valuation, from existing and new strategic investors. With this round of funding, we plan to expand our current JetShuttle offerings and continue to expand globally. We’re hoping to add approximately 80 new routes to our existing 50 by the end of 2017. We want to give our members the opportunity to really travel the world, all through one network.

4. What are JetSmarter events for members like?

a. Along with providing premium travel services for our members, we want to showcase that when you join JetSmarter, you’re joining a community as well. We host very intimate events, where we’re able to provide our clients with opportunities that are only possible through JetSmarter. Through our events our members have had the chance to dine with celebrities and influencers at exclusive restaurants, get access to premium clubs, private shopping experiences with luxury retail brands and more.

5. What is your vision for JetSmarter going forward?

a. We plan to continue our global expansion, and we’re currently focusing on expanding in the countries where there is enough supply to satisfy demand, and are continuing to partner with carriers across the globe, to offer users more inventory daily. Our goal is to one day make all air travel private. Since our launch in 2013, JetSmarter has disrupted the travel industry for the better and we will continue to democratize the industry, making private jet travel more accessible for those who never thought it’d be possible.

JetSmarter members and hospitals can learn more about #CharterHope by emailing charterhope@jetsmarter.com or by visiting the JetSmarter website at jetsmarter.com.

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