Exploring the World of Private Aviation: A Closer Look at Lunajets
A private flight from Madrid to Mallorca for seven people can cost around 3,000 euros . Similarly, a trip from Andalusia to the capital for four friends might set you back about 2,000 euros . These figures may seem exorbitant when compared to commercial flights. However, when discussing private jets and the flexibility of choosing travel times and days, the narrative shifts. Lunajets , a Swiss executive aviation broker that arrived in Spain two years ago, is transforming the experience of flying in a private jet into a more accessible and enjoyable service without breaking the bank.
The Business Behind Luxury
The core of Lunajets’s innovative approach lies in its business model. Instead of owning aircraft, the company connects aircraft owners with passengers. They have access to 4,800 aircraft from 350 operators worldwide, ranging from small four-seater jets to Boeing Business Jets . Their specialty lies in what are known as “empty flights,” which are aircraft repositioning without passengers. These flights can offer discounts of up to 75% . With over 17 years of experience and a revenue of 200 million euros , Lunajets is making private aviation a more customer-friendly experience.
Breaking Barriers in Private Aviation
Carlos Matallana, the director of Lunajets Spain since 2023, stated in an interview with El País , “You don’t have to be Onassis to fly privately.” The challenge, he believes, is a lack of knowledge and culture regarding private aviation in Spain, which has less tradition than its neighboring countries. Social prejudices and ignorance contribute to this disconnect. “There is an incredible amount of accommodated middle-class people who can occasionally afford these flights and do not even know it,” he adds in an interview with El Mundo . Lunajets prides itself on its responsiveness, with a promise to respond within 10 minutes and find the perfect solution in no more than three hours , be it flying over Kilimanjaro at sunset or transporting a pet in cabin.
The Reality After Glamor
“Hollywood has done a lot of damage,” Matallana admits. Ninety-nine percent of flights are often “absolutely disappointing” compared to what movies portray. For him, the true value of private aviation lies not in luxury but in efficiency —avoiding safety checks, controlling schedules, and traveling comfortably. Over the last decade, the client profile has evolved significantly, moving away from the traditional image of the powerful banker.
The Numbers in Spain
The Spanish market for private aviation is on the brink of expansion. Lunajets currently manages about 220 annual flights within Spain, compared to over 15,000 global flights handled by the group. Margins are tight in Europe, ranging between 4% and 5% , but the volume makes up for it. The company aims to double its turnover in Spain this year, riding the wave of increasing public awareness that flying privately does not necessitate a Swiss bank account .
Addressing Environmental Concerns
Lunajets is not without its critics. The environmental impact of flying planes with few or no passengers is a significant concern. France has even increased taxes to discourage such flights. Matallana acknowledges this responsibility: “We emit less than people think, but that does not exempt us from having to reduce what we emit to a minimum.” While the industry seeks to adopt more sustainable alternatives, Lunajets maintains that the value of their service lies in time-saving efficiencies.
In conclusion, Lunajets is making the world of private aviation more accessible to a broader audience. By leveraging modern technology and innovative business practices, they are reshaping what it means to fly privately. With a commitment to efficiency and a proactive approach to customer service, they are paving the way for a new era of executive travel.