Luton Airport, the 5th largest airport in the UK, is also the 4th biggest airport in Europe providing private business flights. Geneva, Paris and Nice are the other three airports that have a large number of private jet traffic, often catering for those with money we can only dream of.
According to Gama Aviation, Luton Airport averages 35 private flights a day, and is the London airport of choice for international jet-setters, the rich and the famous. These lucky few arrive at the airport by limousine or helicopters and have exclusive use of luxury terminals. Those of us who are less wealthy may only look on in envy as we arrive at the airport on train or bus, fumbling with our luggage without a personal escort, and optimism that our flights will be on time. Star spotters will be able to catch a glimpse of the England football team who are regular users of the airport, as well as stars such as Brat Pitt and Angelina Jolie who have also been spotted making use of the airport’s private facilities.
Luton Airport is open 24 hours a day for private flights and currently three companies provide the premium services the wealthy can expect, having their own hangars at the airport. Other companies can provide individual services, such as car hire, but for a comprehensive service designed to cover all your needs, provided you have the money to pay, the following are the aviation services that offer luxury support.
These are ‘Harrods Aviation’, ‘Landmark Aviation’ and ‘Signature Flight Support’, all of whom have a base in Luton. They offer a variety of services including chauffeured private cars, personal helicopter pilots, maintenance for those passengers who arrive on their own helicopters at the airport, and top class catering.
Whilst the lucky few will have access to private lounges it is worth mentioning that we don’t need to be left out of a luxury service. Luton Airport recently extended the ‘Aspire’ lounge, a premium service that is open to all travellers and includes full spa facilities, snooze pods, free wi-fi, and fresh catering. Prices start from £18.99 for adults (over 12 years) and £14.99 for children (1-11 years). They do ask you to dress smartly to enter the lounge, so no jogging bottoms I am afraid, but if you have the extra money you are guaranteed extra comfort and the opportunity to spot the Hollywood and sporting elite in comfort, away from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the airport.