Private jet business makes pitch to Atlantans, with the help of Christina Milian

ajc.com

Credit: Kelly Yamanouchi

Credit: Kelly Yamanouchi

Fort Lauderdale-based private jet business JetSmarter is targeting Atlanta for new members, and enlisted singer Christina Milian in the effort this week.

JetSmarter is a membership-based booking app to reserve individual seats on private jets.

The company, started in 2012, is offering new JetShuttle routes from Atlanta to New York and to Miami. Each is a shared flight with other passengers and is available twice a week. JetSmarter marketing director Antonio Caballero said the company has about 50 JetShuttle routes around the world.

On Wednesday, JetSmarter held a promotional event at Kennesaw general aviation airport McCollulm Field with an appearance by Milian "to celebrate the company’s recently launched JetShuttle routes in Atlanta."

ajc.com

Credit: Kelly Yamanouchi

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Credit: Kelly Yamanouchi

JetSmarter charges $15,000 for a year of membership. Members can get a free seat on JetShuttle routes. Companions, however cost extra, and the company also sells charter flights and shared charter flights.

The company doesn't own any jets, however. Instead, it buys hours on private jets in bulk, in advance from operators including Delta Private Jets. If no customers book seats on a JetShuttle flight, it doesn't fly the route.

It's a variation on private jet card programs and air taxi operations for private jet flights.

"We're trying to open private aviation to the masses," Caballero said.