The complete guide to ski resorts by private jet with AEROAFFAIRES

This winter, fly to the most beautiful ski resorts with AEROAFFAIRES

Non-operational educational article aimed at customers, executive assistants and travel managers. The information below is based on public information (airport pages, coordinators, FBOs). Operational planning is the sole responsibility of the AOC operator and the local handler.

The European winter concentrates travel to the Alps, Dolomites and Pyrenees. Between Christmas, New Year, February vacations and long weekends, demand explodes at some of the airports located “closest to the slopes”. This seasonal peak puts pressure on aircraft parking capacity, quickly saturates slots, weather conditions can be unstable, and opening hours are often shorter than in summer.

Travelling by private jet allows you to keep control of your schedule and your connections, provided you effectively anticipate the particularities of the winter season: selecting the right airport, reserving essential slots, making de-icing available and coordinating transfers, whether by helicopter or by road.

At AEROAFFAIRES, we design a seamless and secure itinerary for each customer: main airport and fallback solution, perfectly synchronized transfers and an alternative action plan in case of unfavorable weather. The aim: to guarantee your arrival at the resort in the best possible conditions, even in the middle of an Alpine winter.

1) Understanding winter airports for your private jet flight with AEROAFFAIRES

Airport categories for private jet flights to ski resorts

Mountain airports: located as close as possible to ski resorts, they offer direct access but have limited resources (parking, schedules, weather). Their use is restricted to sunrise to sunset, depending on visibility conditions.
Examples: Sion (welcomes private jets, but subject to visibility and weather conditions), Samedan, Bolzano, Chambéry, Annecy and Annemasse.

Regional “all-weather” airports: a little further away, but benefiting from more robust infrastructures: customs services, high-performance de-icing, spacious parking lots and full navigation facilities.
Examples: Geneva, Zurich.

Large alternative airports: international hubs with extended opening hours, ideal as a fallback solution in case of bad weather or saturated mountainous terrain.
Examples: Milan Malpensa, Barcelona.

Typical winter constraints for business aviation

• Parking capacity: often reduced at weekends; repositioning may be necessary.
• Opening hours: many high-altitude airports only operate between sunrise and sunset, as visibility is a prerequisite for all operations.
• Slots and PPRs: essential to absorb peaks in activity during the winter vacations.
• Weather: visibility parameters, valley winds and sub-zero temperatures can delay operations and require de-icing before departure.
• Customs: some areas do not offer immigration or border control at all times, so early coordination is essential.

2) Aircraft types and certification (public passenger transport)

The choice of aircraft depends not only on the distance and capacity required, but also on the operating environment: public passenger transport (PPT) or private use. AEROAFFAIRES selects only AOC-certified operators to guarantee legal compliance, rigorous maintenance and passenger protection.

• Turboprop aircraft certified with AOC (Certificat de Trasport Aérien): certain turboprops, such as the TP600 or Vulcanair P68, can access specialized high altitude airfields such as Courchevel (LFLJ), subject to runway qualification and visibility conditions (day VFR only).
• Pilatus PC-12: a high-performance, versatile pressurized turboprop, ideal for short or restricted-access airfields such as Sion (LSGS), Bolzano (LIPB) or Chambéry (LFLB). Used extensively in winter for its ability to combine autonomy, comfort and operational flexibility.
• Light to intermediate jets: accessible at regional all-weather airports such as Geneva, Zurich, Chambery or Berne, but subject to visibility and adapted IFR procedures.
• Long-haul: prefer alternative hubs (Milan Malpensa, Barcelona, Zurich) offering long runways, extended schedules and comprehensive services (customs, de-icing, maintenance).

Note: aircraft operating in public transport are subject to strict weather limitation rules, including :

• daytime operations only on mountainous terrain ;
• minimum visibility conditions for take-off and landing;
• mandatory de-icing before departure, in accordance with manufacturer’s protocol;
• specific pilot qualifications for altiports (e.g. Courchevel, Megève).

3) How to choose your airport with AEROAFFAIRES: 7 criteria method

1. Proximity or unrestricted airport?
   Saving thirty minutes on the road can be costly in terms of flexibility if the chosen airport is highly restrictive (slots, weather conditions).
2. Actual schedules
   Distinguish between theoretical schedules and slots that can actually be used, depending on daylight or local restrictions.
3. Customs
   Check availability of controls (Schengen area, UK, Switzerland) and notice periods.
4. Slots and authorizations
   Anticipate to obtain a useful time slot: arrival before the chalet is set up, departure after the end of the stay.
5. Defrosting
   Take into account waiting time and potential cost; allow a margin at the outset. AEROAFFAIRES can also offer specific insurance to cover de-icing costs, where possible.
6. Parking
   Choose between parking on site or repositioning the aircraft; this affects the cost and punctuality of the return trip.
7. Transfers around your private flight
   Compare helicopter transfers (faster, but weather-dependent) and road transfers (more reliable). AEROAFFAIRES always recommends two options to ensure the continuity of your trip.

AEROAFFAIRES approach: each airport is evaluated according to these criteria to propose a main itinerary and an alternative itinerary, with realistic schedules and coordinated transfers to your ski resort by private jet.

4) Preparing your flight to ski resorts by private jet: the timetable with AEROAFFAIRES (6 to 4 weeks before your flight)

• T-6 to T-4 weeks: validation of dates, pre-selection of airports, slot and parking requests, pre-booking of transfers (helicopter or road), first aircraft proposals.
• T-3 weeks: confirmation of aircraft and slots, validation of ground service, definition of cabin preferences (meals, seating, children’s or pets’ needs), verification of travel documents.
• T-2 weeks: confirm transfers, adjust timetables according to stay schedule, set up a plan B (fallback ground or road transfer).
• T-1 week: check weather forecast, estimate risk of de-icing, adjust schedule margins.
• D-1 / day of flight: NOTAM check, final validation of slots and transfers, passenger information, arrival time at business aviation terminal.

5) Frequently asked questions about private jet ski resorts

Which is the most convenient airport for my resort?
The one that combines proximity and reliability. An all-weather regional a little further away can save your schedule if the weather turns bad.

Can I land in Courchevel by jet?
TheCourchevel altiport is reserved for light aircraft specially authorized for this type of terrain. For public passenger transport, only certain turboprops such as the P68 or TP600 can operate there, subject to sufficient visibility and a specific pilot qualification.
Jets, on the other hand, land at nearby airports – Chambéry, Grenoble, Annecy or Lyon – before transferring to Courchevel by helicopter or road.

Does Samedan (St. Moritz) accept all jets?
Reception depends on aircraft type and weather conditions. Alternatives: Zurich or Milan, then transfer to St. Moritz.

Is de-icing systematic?
No, but it’s common in cold conditions. This operation adds time on the ground and generates additional costs. At AEROAFFAIRES, we can offer de-icing insurance to cover all or part of these unforeseen costs, for a worry-free winter trip with no surprises.

When to book?
As early as possible: slots and parking are the key to peak Saturdays.

6) AEROAFFAIRES guides: airport and ski resort transfers by private jet

Times shown vary according to traffic and weather conditions. Helicopter flights are only possible during the day.

France – Les 3 Vallées: Courchevel, Méribel, Val Thorens

• Recommended airports: Chambéry, Grenoble, Annecy, Lyon.
• Special feature: Courchevel has an altiport reserved for light aviation.
• Transfers: helicopter 20-35 min or road 1 h 30 to 2 h 30.
• Peak periods: Christmas, New Year, February vacations.

France – Espace Killy: Val d’Isère, Tignes

• Airports: Chambéry, Grenoble, Annecy, Lyon.
• Transfers: helicopter, weather permitting; 2-3 hour drive.
• Alternative: Lyon for late arrivals.

France – Mont-Blanc Escape: Megève, Saint-Gervais, Chamonix

• Airports: Geneva, Annecy, Chambéry.
• Transfers: helicopter or road 1-2 h.
• Tip: allow some time on Saturday afternoons (valley traffic).

Switzerland – Verbier and the 4 Valleys

• Airports: Sion, Geneva.
• Transfers: fast helicopter to Verbier or road 1-2 hours.
• Please note: limited parking in Sion in high season.

Switzerland – Zermatt

• Airports: Sion, Geneva.
• Special feature: pedestrian resort; last section via Täsch (train or electric cab).
• Transfers: helicopter, weather permitting, or road and rail.

Switzerland – St. Moritz / Engadin

• Airports: Engadin Samedan or Zurich.
• Transfers: helicopter 10-20 min, scenic route possible.

Switzerland – Gstaad

• Airports: Bern, Sion, Geneva.
• Transfers: helicopter or road.

Austria – Kitzbühel and Tyrol

• Airports: Innsbruck, Salzburg, Munich.
• Transfers: helicopter or road 1-2 hours.
• Tip: Munich remains the safest option in case of bad weather.

Austria – Arlberg: St. Anton, Lech, Zürs

• Airports: Innsbruck, Zurich, Friedrichshafen.
• Transfers: road or helicopter depending on conditions.

Italy – Cortina d’Ampezzo (Dolomites)

• Airports: Bolzano, Venice, Treviso.
• Transfers: helicopter (day) or panoramic road.

Italy – Val Gardena / Alta Badia

• Airports: Bolzano, Innsbruck, Venice.
• Transfers: road or helicopter, weather permitting.

Italy – Madonna di Campiglio

• Airports: Verona, Milan Linate, Bolzano.
• Transfers: 2-3 h by road, helicopter possible during the day.

Spain / Andorra – Baqueira Beret

• Airports: Barcelona, Toulouse.
• Transfers: helicopter 45-60 min or road 2-3 h.
• Alternatives: Perpignan, Girona.

France – Alpe d’Huez, Les Deux Alpes, Serre-Chevalier

• Airports: Grenoble, Chambéry, Lyon.
• Transfers: 1 h 30-2 h 30 by road or helicopter, weather permitting.

Switzerland – Crans-Montana / Saas-Fee

• Airports: Sion, Geneva.
• Transfers: road or helicopter; allow extra time on Saturdays.

7) Transfers to ski resorts by private jet: helicopter, road or rail?

Helicopter

• +Faster on the last leg, spectacular views, “slopeside” experience.
  – Depends on daylight and weather; large luggage limited; availability to be anticipated.

Road (4×4 cars, vans)

• +Fiable in most conditions, luggage/ski capacity, door-to-door service.
  – Valley traffic on Saturdays; snow tires/chains required (managed by service provider).

Rail (Zermatt via Täsch)

• +Predictable, practical in pedestrian stations.
  – Requires connecting logistics.

AEROAFFAIRES recommendation: book both a helicopter transfer and a road transfer as Plan B, then decide the day before depending on the weather.

8) Budget for a trip to the ski resorts by private jet: variables to anticipate

Flight factors

• Aircraft type: turboprop (2-4 passengers) to long-haul (10-14+ passengers).
• Flight duration and repositioning: repositioning may offer better schedules, but at a higher cost.
• Airport choice: landing fees, parking fees, ground services.
• De-icing: depends on weather, aircraft type and quantity of fluid used.

Ground factors

• Transfers: helicopter (subject to availability) or road (adapted high-end vehicles).
• Off-peak times: reduce waiting times to optimize costs.

AEROAFFAIRES tips for budget control

• Anticipate slots to avoid imposed schedules.
• Choose an all-weather airport if your schedule is tight.
• Group passengers to optimize capacity.
• Allow an extra margin on departure if the probability of de-icing is high.

9) On board with AEROAFFAIRES: managing baggage, children and pets when flying to ski resorts on a private jet

• Skis and snowboards: inform us in advance of their dimensions, so that we can select an aircraft with a suitable hold, whether for helicopters or private jets.
• Mountain equipment: provide covers for helmets, boots, strollers; balance the weight.
• Children: adapted seats, special meals, comfortable schedules.
• Pets: accepted on many aircraft, subject to proper documentation (vaccinations, microchip, veterinary certificates).
• On-boardmeals: hot drinks, “après-ski” menus, catering adapted to late arrivals.
• Connectivity: many aircraft have Wi-Fi; please indicate your requirements for the right choice of aircraft.

10) Comparative table of winter airports in Europe for ski resorts by private jet with AEROAFFAIRES

Airport	Proximity to resorts	Slots/PPR	Winter schedules (general)	De-icing	Customs	FBO/Handling	Nearby alternatives	Transfers
Chambéry	3 Vallées, Val d’Isère/Tignes	Depending on period	Extended day, weekend variations	Yes	Depending on flight	Yes	Lyon, Grenoble	Helicopter 20-35 min / Road 1h30-2h30
Grenoble	3 Valleys, Oisans	Depending on season	Day	Yes	According to flight	Yes	Lyon, Chambéry	Helicopter 20-35 min / Road 1h45-2h30
Annecy	Aravis, Northern Alps access	Sometimes	More daytime	Possible	Depending on flight	Yes	Geneva, Chambéry	Helicopter 15-25 min / Road 1h30-2h30
Lyon	Wide access to the Alps	Less constrained	Extended	Yes	Yes	Yes	Grenoble, Chambéry	Helicopter 30-45 min / Road 2-3 h
Geneva	Chamonix, Megève, Verbier	Depending on season	Extended	Yes	Yes	Yes	Annecy, Sion	Helicopter 15-30 min / Road 1-2 h
Sion	Verbier, Crans-Montana, Zermatt	Depending on season	Day	Possible	According to flight	Yes	Geneva, Bern	Helicopter 10-25 min / Road 1-2 h
Engadin (Samedan)	St. Moritz	According to conditions	Day	Possible	According to flight	Yes	Zurich, Milan	Helicopter 10-20 min / Road 1-2 h
Zurich	Alps East (robust Plan B)	No GA	Extended	Yes	Yes	Yes	Basel, Friedrichshafen	Helicopter 20-40 min / Road 2-3 h
Innsbruck	Tyrol, Kitzbühel	Depending on season	Extended day	Yes	Yes (depending)	Yes	Munich, Salzburg	Helicopter 10-25 min / Road 1-2 h
Munich	Bavarian Alps, Tyrol	No GA	Extensive	Yes	Yes	Yes	Innsbruck, Salzburg	Helicopter 20-40 min / Road 1-2 h
Bolzano	Dolomites, Cortina	Depending on season	Day	Possible	According to flight	Yes	Venice, Treviso	Helicopter 15-30 min / Road 1-3 h
Venice	Dolomites (plan B)	Less constrained	Extended	Yes	Yes	Yes	Treviso, Verona	Helicopter 30-45 min / Road 2-3 h
Barcelona	Andorra (plan B)	No GA	Extended	Yes	Yes	Yes	Toulouse	Helicopter 45-60 min / Road 2-3 h
Toulouse	Andorra, Pyrenees	No GA	Extended	Yes	Yes	Yes	Barcelona	Helicopter 45-60 min / Road 2-3 h