LVMH invests $800M in Flexjet: towards a new era in private aviation?

This week, L Catterton – the financial arm of LVMH – injected $800 million into Flexjet, valuing the company at around $4 billion. This is the largest equity financing ever seen in the private airline sector.

Flexjet, one of the world’s leading operators of private jets, operates over 300 aircraft, offersfractional ownership, leasing and jet card services, and has forecast sales of around $2.6 billion in 2024, with EBITDA projected at $425 million for 2025.

Why this investment transcends the aircraft

A concrete move upmarket

Flexjet has signed a landmark agreement with Embraer to acquire 182 Phenom and Praetor jets for up to $7 billion. These new-generation long-haul aircraft reflect Flexjet’s strategy of focusing on high-end intercontinental flights.

Synergies with the luxury world

Thanks to the link with LVMH, Flexjet intends to tap into a network of iconic brands – such as Bentley, Riva Yachts and Belmond – to enrich the customer experience on board and on the ground. It’s no longer just about transporting passengers: it’s about shaping an ultra-selective, immersive club life, from private terminals to events reserved for the elite.

A younger, more nomadic clientele

Flexjet is seeing a change in the profile of its customers: the average age is now 58, compared with 62 in 2019, with growing demand for trips to the Middle East, up to ten times more frequent than a few years ago.

What this means for private business aviation

These developments illustrate a fundamental trend: private aviation is no longer limited to transportation, it is becoming an extension of high-end lifestyle. LVMH’s entry into this segment validates a new paradigm: the aircraft is a place of branding, refined service, networking and elegance.

This turnaround also reflects the resilience of the private model in the face of uncertain public markets: Flexjet refused an IPO last year, preferring a structure with more control and less volatility.

AEROAFFAIRES flexjet: your partner for travelling further

At AEROAFFAIRESwe are keeping a close eye on these developments, as they resonate with our own commitment to offering our executive customers seamless, personalized and responsible mobility.

• A vast network of certified private jets and helicopters
• Optimization of every trip by a dedicated consultant
• Systematic carbon offsetting

Like Flexjet and the strategic support of LVMH, we aim to offer not just a flight, but a tailor-made form of service, marked by tranquillity, efficiency and exclusivity.

We are at your disposal to compose a travel solution in your image: discreet luxury, rigor, anticipation.

📩 charter@aeroaffaires.com
📞 +33 1 44 09 91 82