Private Jet Trends 2025: What the Data Is Really Saying
Live from NBAA Las Vegas, Dan Harris sits down with two of the most data-driven minds in private aviation: Doug Gollan of Private Jet Card Comparisons and Richard Koe of WINGX. Together, they bridge the gap between customer sentiment and actual flight data to explore what’s really happening in the charter, fractional, and jet card market.
This isn’t just a conversation about numbers — it’s a reality check on perceptions, pricing, and where demand is heading. From AI in aviation ops to the comeback of light jets, from Florida’s dominance to Texas’s breakout year — this episode is packed with insights that will challenge what you think you know about today’s jet landscape.
Whether you’re an operator, an owner, a broker, or a buyer — this episode is your market radar.
Charter Flight Support – Get peace of mind when a mechanical threatens your trip. Financial and operational backup: charterflightsupport.com
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✈️ The Iron Bird Podcast brings you honest, data-driven conversations with the people shaping the private aviation industry.
🎧 Listen now at: flyironbird.com/private_jet_podcast
🧠 What You’ll Learn🔧 Sponsored By
Recorded live from NBAA in partnership with Flyhouse
Private aviation is entering a new era — one driven by integration, scale, and service.
In this live NBAA session, Flyhouse CEO Jack Lambert and Sun Air Jets CEO Brian Counsil join host Dan Harris to discuss the landmark acquisition that’s redefining what an aviation company can be.
They unpack the full-circle vision behind the deal — combining charter, FBO, and maintenance into one ecosystem — and share the lessons learned from months of negotiations, culture alignment, and strategic planning.
More than a business move, this is about reimagining how small operators grow, compete, and serve in an industry where 90% of players have fewer than 10 aircraft.
✦ Why Flyhouse’s “build the house” vision goes beyond charter
✦ How Sun Air Jets’ legacy and people shaped the acquisition
✦ The strategy behind vertical integration — from hangar to app
✦ What smaller operators should know before selling or scaling
✦ Lessons from a 10-month acquisition process
✦ Why culture and people determine the real success of a merger
Whether you’re an operator looking to grow or a founder considering an exit, this episode shows how partnerships — when done right — can reshape the entire business aviation ecosystem.
🔧 Sponsored by
Charter Flight Support — The only coverage that protects you when a mechanical issue grounds your jet. charterflightsupport.com
Video Valet — 1.2M+ movies, shows, and magazines without Wi-Fi. Mention Iron Bird for a free custom iPad setup. videovalet.io
✈️ The Iron Bird Podcast brings you the voices shaping private aviation today — from boardrooms to hangars, where strategy meets sky.
Listen to every episode at flyironbird.com
How Curt Marker Balances Jets, Real Estate, and Reputation
Guest: Curt Marker, Pilot & Real Estate Investor
Host: Dan Harris, IronBird Partners Podcast
Not every pilot sticks to the cockpit.
In this episode, Dan Harris sits down with Curt Marker — a third-generation pilot, experienced Gulfstream captain, and thriving real estate investor — to talk about what it really means to build a sustainable and flexible aviation career.
Curt shares how he’s managed to fly for both airlines and private jet owners, all while growing a portfolio of investments and building a reputation as one of the most personable, service-driven pilots in the business. From funding his own type ratings to navigating the jump from G3s to G600s, this conversation is part flight path, part masterclass in long-game thinking.
Inside this episode:
✦ Why flying is only 10% of the job — and what actually builds loyalty
✦ What owners should really ask when hiring a pilot
✦ How Curt funded his own $100K+ type ratings — and why it paid off
✦ The difference between being a good pilot and being a great partner
✦ How personal branding and presentation affect pilot opportunity
✦ Smart ways pilots can network, upskill, and earn trust in a tight market
Whether you’re an aircraft owner looking to hire better crew — or a pilot thinking bigger than flight hours — Curt’s story will give you something to fly with.
🔧 Sponsored by:
Charter Flight Support — The only solution that protects owners when mechanical issues strike. charterflightsupport.com
Video Valet — Custom inflight iPads preloaded with movies, magazines, and entertainment. Mention Iron Bird for a free setup. videovalet.io
✈️ The Iron Bird Podcast is where aviation’s sharpest minds share what really matters — behind the scenes, in the air, and on the ramp.
Catch every episode at: flyironbird.com
What happens when your private jet client knows more than your sales team?
In this episode, Dan Harris speaks with Kimberly Herrell, CEO of Schubach Aviation, about what it takes to stay relevant in a market where clients are getting smarter, younger, and more values-driven. From building trust with first-time charter clients to keeping high-frequency fliers loyal, Kimberly shares real-world lessons from decades of running one of California’s most respected boutique charter companies.
She opens up about inheriting a legacy, modernizing the brand, and the unique pressures of operating in a city like San Diego — where tech, lifestyle, and luxury expectations are always in the air.
Inside this episode:
✦ Why Schubach focuses on loyalty over scale
✦ How younger clients are reshaping private aviation expectations
✦ What first-time flyers actually want — and how to earn their trust
✦ The hidden risks of brokering trips with unknown operators
✦ How Kimberly navigated legacy, succession, and brand evolution
✦ Why "boutique" doesn’t mean small — it means intentional
If you care about reputation, retention, and delivering luxury that lasts — this conversation will hit home.
🔧 Sponsored by:
Charter Flight Support — Backstop coverage when mechanicals delay your mission. charterflightsupport.com
Video Valet — Inflight entertainment with no Wi-Fi required. Mention Iron Bird and receive a complimentary iPad setup. videovalet.io
✈️ The Iron Bird Podcast brings together the voices shaping private aviation today — for the clients, owners, and operators who care about doing it right.
Catch all episodes at: flyironbird.com
Guest: Casey Miller, Founder & President, Latitude 33 Aviation
Host: Dan Harris, Iron Bird Partners Podcast
Some people enter aviation through spreadsheets. Casey Miller was raised in the cockpit.
In this episode, Dan Harris talks with Latitude 33’s founder and president, Casey Miller — a pilot, entrepreneur, and operator who turned a side hustle into one of the most respected charter and management companies in the western U.S.
Casey shares how he went from flying freight out of El Paso for $18,000 a year to managing a fleet of 35 aircraft across the West Coast — all without outside capital, acquisition shortcuts, or hypergrowth tactics. The conversation pulls back the curtain on what slow, intentional success really looks like in private aviation.
In this episode:
✦ Why Latitude 33 has never taken on debt — and why that matters
✦ The difference between managing aircraft and managing expectations
✦ When growing too fast puts your certificate (and culture) at risk
✦ Why Casey avoids brokering trips he can’t personally vouch for
✦ The tech bottlenecks holding the industry back (and how AI might help)
✦ How pilot pools, owner expectations, and safety culture intersect
✦ The bonus depreciation wave — and what it really means for charter
Whether you're an aircraft owner, a charter client, or building your own operation — this is a real-world playbook on how to grow in aviation without compromising what matters.
🔧 Sponsored by:
Charter Flight Support — The only backup coverage that protects you when a mechanical stops your trip. charterflightsupport.com
Video Valet — Elevate your inflight experience with 1.2M+ movies and magazines—no Wi-Fi required. Mention Iron Bird to get a free custom iPad. videovalet.io
✈️ The Iron Bird Partners Podcast brings high-level conversations from inside the cockpit, boardroom, and hangar.
Explore more episodes at: flyironbird.com
You’ve vetted the aircraft. You’ve seen the badge. You think you're covered.
But what if the biggest threat to your safety isn’t mechanical — it’s organizational?
In this episode, Dan sits down with Al Mann, Director of Safety at Flyhouse and former VP of Safety at Wheels Up, to break open the hidden flaws in how private aviation defines — and often misrepresents — safety.
Al doesn’t just manage risk. He challenges the way operators, clients, and even regulators think about it. From the illusion of audit-based reassurance to why “safety is our top priority” is often just a marketing line, this conversation lifts the curtain on an industry overdue for change.
Inside the episode:
✦ What FAA’s Part 5 SMS really means for private flyers and owners
✦ Why most audits fail to capture actual risk — and what to ask instead
✦ The myth that smaller operators can’t afford real safety programs
✦ What makes a culture of safety (hint: it’s not a checklist)
✦ The question every charter client should be asking — and the answer that separates safe from scary
If you own an aircraft, manage one, or fly on someone else’s dime — this is the episode you can’t afford to miss.
🔧 Sponsored by:
Charter Flight Support — Private aviation’s only coverage that protects you from mechanical delays. charterflightsupport.com
Video Valet — 1.2M+ shows, films, and magazines without the Wi-Fi struggle. Mention Iron Bird to get one custom iPad free. videovalet.io
✈️ The Iron Bird Podcast is your back-pocket guide to flying smarter. For charter clients, aircraft owners, and crew who care about what happens behind the cockpit door.
Catch the next flight: flyironbird.com
Service might wow your guests. But safety? That’s what saves them.
In this powerhouse episode of the Ironbird Podcast, host Daniel Harris sits down with Amanda Piper, a corporate flight attendant, aircare FACTS instructor, and former head of cabin, to explore the unseen but critical elements of flying private. Amanda shares how real leadership happens in the galley—under pressure, behind the scenes, and in moments that passengers never see.
From duct tape solutions to mid-air emergencies, Amanda walks us through her path from Microsoft analyst to one of the most respected voices in cabin safety. This one is a must-listen for anyone serious about elevating private aviation—from owners and operators to aspiring flight crew.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
👉 Learn more about aviation leadership, safety training, and industry standards at www.flyironbird.com
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
Charter Flight Support (CFS) – The only coverage in private aviation that protects you when a jet breaks down. From financial recovery to backup aircraft sourcing, CFS ensures your reputation stays intact. Learn more at www.charterflightsupport.com
Video Valet – Entertainment that matches the aircraft experience. With 1.2M+ movies, shows, and articles delivered via fully customized iPads—no Wi-Fi required—Video Valet transforms time in the sky. Mention Ironbird at www.videovalet.com for a complimentary personalized iPad.
Cabo may look like a developed luxury destination—but according to Barrie Livingstone, it's still in its early stages of transformation. In this studio episode of the Ironbird Podcast, host Daniel Harris sits down with Barrie to discuss the hidden dynamics behind Cabo’s explosive growth, the rise of legacy properties, and how high-net-worth travelers are building generational homes at the edge of the Baja Peninsula.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
Whether you’re a real estate investor, a jetsetter looking for a second home, or just fascinated by the evolution of luxury destinations, this episode offers an unfiltered look at the movement shaping modern Cabo.
👉 Explore aviation strategy and private travel insights at www.flyironbird.com.
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
Charter Flight Support (CFS) – The AOG-oholics keeping private aviation on track. Get coverage when a jet breaks, access expert aircraft recovery, and sign up for The Fix, the industry’s go-to newsletter for charter rates, fleet data, and trending aircraft. Visit www.charterflightsupport.com.
Video Valet – The ultimate in-flight experience. With over 1.2M titles available offline on custom iPads, Video Valet ensures your passengers never lose touch with their entertainment. Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary personalized iPad at www.videovalet.com.
What if your dog could fly private—in the cabin, with gourmet snacks, massage, and a concierge team trained just for them?
In this episode of the Ironbird Podcast, host Daniel Harris sits down with Ryan Rudolph, Senior Manager at Bark Air, the world’s first private jet experience designed entirely around dogs. From on-board bone broth to international dog-friendly concierge services, Bark Air isn’t just a novelty—it’s rewriting the rules of luxury travel for pets and their people.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
How Bark Inc. scaled from dog toys to dog flights (and why it's working)
What it really takes to build and run a private airline inside a public company
The logistics of flying 100+ lb dogs from New York to Paris
How Bark Air balances AOGs, European regulations, and route planning
Data-driven insights into customer demand and dog-friendly flight stacking
Bark’s plans for tech, FBO partnerships, and future destinations
If you’re an aviation entrepreneur, animal lover, or just curious about what innovation looks like in the skies, this episode will surprise you—in the best way.
👉 Learn more about aircraft strategy, charter risk, and private aviation planning at www.flyironbird.com
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
Charter Flight Support (CFS) – The only coverage in private aviation that protects you when a jet breaks down. CFS helps you recover fast, book smart, and keep your reputation intact. Sign up for The Fix newsletter at www.charterflightsupport.com.
Video Valet – The ultimate onboard experience. With up to 1.2M movies, shows, magazines, and news titles delivered on customized iPads—no Wi-Fi required—Video Valet keeps every passenger (and their family) entertained. Mention Ironbird at www.videovalet.com to get a complimentary personalized iPad with your order.
Behind every luxury jet experience lies a maze of contracts, options, and... gotchas. So how do high-net-worth travelers, charter clients, and operators avoid costly mistakes when it comes to jet cards, fractional ownership, and on-demand charter?
In this in-depth Ironbird Podcast episode, host Daniel Harris sits down with Doug Gollan, Founder of Private Jet Card Comparisons, live at NBAA in Las Vegas. Doug pulls back the curtain on private jet pricing strategies, the risks travelers overlook, and why even plane owners are signing up for jet cards in 2025.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
Whether you're flying private for the first time or reviewing your next aircraft investment strategy, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants smarter, safer, and more seamless private travel.
👉 Learn more about aircraft strategy, charter risk, and private aviation planning at www.flyironbird.com
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
Charter Flight Support (CFS) – The only AOG support solution built specifically for the private jet industry. When a trip’s on the line, CFS gets your clients back in the air—fast. Sign up for The Fix, their free newsletter with exclusive data on rates, reliability, and recovery insights at www.charterflightsupport.com.
Video Valet – Elevate your inflight experience. With fully customized iPads and access to over 1.2 million entertainment options, Video Valet ensures every flight feels first-class. Mention Ironbird at www.videovalet.com to receive a complimentary iPad with your order.
Every private flight looks smooth—until it isn’t. A mechanical delay. A grounded jet. A last-minute scramble to recover the trip. What do you do next?
In this studio episode of the Ironbird Podcast, host Daniel Harris sits down with Josh Allen, CEO of Charter Flight Support, to talk about what really happens behind the scenes when a jet goes AOG—and how the right support system can save both your flight and your reputation.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
What AOG (Aircraft on Ground) really means and how it affects brokers, operators, and owners
How CFS support plans protect your business, your margin, and your mental health
Real-world stats: Which aircraft types see the most mechanicals—and why
The recovery process from first call to getting a replacement aircraft in the air
Why operators and brokers alike are using CFS to provide fixed-rate peace of mind
Whether you're flying five times a year or managing five flights a day, this episode gives you the inside scoop on the data, support, and strategies that make private aviation run smoothly—even when it doesn’t.
👉 Learn more about private aviation strategy, aircraft advisory, and risk management at www.flyironbird.com.
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
Charter Flight Support (CFS) – The AOG-oholics redefining private aviation with industry-first AOG support solutions. Their Fix Newsletter shares exclusive intel on aircraft performance, average charter rates, and mechanical trends operators can’t ignore. Learn more and sign up at www.charterflightsupport.com.
Video Valet – The premium in-flight entertainment solution for private jets. Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase at www.videovalet.com.
For the ultra-wealthy, private aviation is about effortless luxury—but in-flight entertainment has often failed to keep up. Whether it’s geo-blocked live sports, unreliable streaming, or outdated hardware, even the most exclusive jet owners have faced frustrations.
In this episode of the Ironbird Podcast, host Daniel Harris talks with Eric Cohen, CEO of Video Valet, about how his company has revolutionized in-flight entertainment, ensuring that private jet passengers never miss a game, movie, or show—anywhere in the world.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
For private jet owners, charter operators, and elite travelers, this episode is an inside look at how the wealthiest passengers stay entertained at 40,000 feet—without compromise.
👉 Learn more about private aviation strategy and premium in-flight experiences at www.flyironbird.com.
Owning a Gulfstream sounds like the ultimate luxury—but what does it actually take to manage, maintain, and operate one? In this episode of the Ironbird Podcast, host Daniel Harris is joined by Andrew Gulsrud, COO of Prime Jet, for a deep dive into the truth about Gulfstream operations and ownership.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
The real costs of owning a Gulfstream—beyond just the purchase price
How maintenance, safety, and operational expenses impact long-term ownership
The differences between floating fleets and home-based aircraft models
What to consider when choosing a charter operator or aircraft manager
How AI and technology are reshaping fleet management and charter sales
Whether you're an aircraft owner, prospective buyer, or private aviation enthusiast, this episode provides expert insights into what it really takes to own and operate a Gulfstream—and how to avoid costly mistakes.
👉 Learn more about aviation strategy, aircraft advisory, and industry insights at www.flyironbird.com.
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:
Video Valet – Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase at www.videovalet.com.
Charter Flight Support (CFS) – The AOG-oholics redefining private aviation with their industry-first AOG support solutions. Their Fix Newsletter delivers exclusive insights on trending aircraft, average charter rates, and why operators and brokers rely on CFS to keep flights on track.
Need AOG support for an upcoming flight? Want the best data in the industry? Or just looking to connect with the real good guys of private aviation? Visit www.charterflightsupport.com to learn more and sign up for The Fix—the must-have resource for anyone in private aviation.
Welcome to another episode of the Ironbird Podcast, where we break down the business and strategy of private aviation. Hosted by Daniel Harris in our studio, this episode features a deep dive with Kolin Jones, CEO of Amalfi Jets, as we explore the challenges, innovations, and best practices shaping the private jet industry.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
- How Ironbird Partners helps clients navigate private aviation with trusted advisory and expertise
- The value of charter brokers and when it makes sense to use one versus booking directly with an operator
- The realities of safety, pricing, and transparency in the private jet market
- How data, client preferences, and personalization are redefining private jet travel
- The future of private aviation, including emerging trends in jet card programs and corporate travel solutions
As private aviation becomes more accessible and complex, understanding key industry insights is essential for owners, operators, and elite travelers. Tune in for an expert discussion on making smarter private aviation decisions with Ironbird Partners and industry leaders like Kolin Jones.
👉 Learn more about private aviation strategy and expert advisory services at www.flyironbird.com.
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor, Video Valet! Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase at www.videovalet.com.
Welcome to a special episode of the Ironbird Podcast, recorded live from the NBAA event in Las Vegas with our co-sponsor, FlyHouse! This time, we sit down with Richard Koe, Managing Director of WingX, to explore how aviation data is reshaping the private jet industry—from ownership decisions to operational efficiency and investment trends.
✅ What’s inside this episode?
How real-time flight data helps operators optimize aircraft usage Market trends: which aircraft types are gaining or losing traction The impact of elections, economic cycles, and fuel prices on private aviation How data-driven insights can help investors and charter companies make smarter moves Why proper financial stability matters in the private jet spaceWhether you're an aircraft owner, operator, investor, or industry professional, this episode provides invaluable insights into the business of private aviation and how data is shaping its future.
👉 Learn more about private aviation trends and insights atwww.flyironbird.com.
🎙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor, Video Valet! Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase atwww.videovalet.com.
When booking a private jet, should you work with a charter broker or go directly to a charter operator? 🤔
In this episode of the Ironbird Podcast, we break down the key differences, pros, and cons of working with private jet brokers versus private jet operators. Our expert guests from Fly Alliance and Chapman Freeborn provide insider knowledge on what each option offers, how pricing differs, and which one is best suited for different types of travelers.
✈️ Topics we cover:
✅ How brokers and operators function in private aviation
✅ Pricing differences and transparency concerns
✅ Which option is better for frequent flyers, first-time charter clients, and business aviation
✅ How operators and brokers work together to provide private jet access
👉 Want to learn more about private aviation? Visit www.flyironbird.com for expert insights.
🎙 Sponsored by Video Valet! Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase from www.videovalet.com
🎙 Also Sponsored by Charter Flights Support. The #1 private jet mechanical service that any private traveller should have on all of their flights.
Discover how AI is transforming the private aviation industry in this episode of the Ironbird Podcast. Join us as we talk with experts from FL3XX and MOOVE about the future of aviation technology. Learn how advancements in dynamic pricing, automated scheduling, and AI-powered solutions are reshaping the way operators and clients interact. Whether you're a charter client, jet owner, or aviation enthusiast, this episode will give you an inside look at the cutting-edge tools shaping the industry.
👉 Want to stay informed about private aviation and cutting-edge technologies? Visit www.flyironbird.com for more insights.
🎙 Sponsored by Video Valet – Mention 'Ironbird' to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase.
In this special solo episode, 'Charter 101,' we dive into everything you need to know about private jet charter. From understanding different aircraft sizes to exploring the types of programs available—on-demand, fractional ownership, and jet cards—we cover it all. If you’re curious about flying privately or looking to make more informed decisions, this episode is for you!
In this episode of the Ironbird Podcast, we sit down with Jack Lambert, the visionary CEO behind FlyHouse, to discuss how the company is changing the landscape of private jet charter and aircraft management. FlyHouse has developed an innovative app that connects clients directly to aircraft owners, offering real-time pricing, availability, and a more transparent booking process.
Jack shares his insights into the evolution of private jet programs, including the rise of dynamic pricing, the benefits of direct bookings, and how FlyHouse plans to expand the use of its technology to deliver a superior customer experience. We also discuss FlyHouse's recent acquisition of JetASAP, which enhances their service offerings, allowing users to access accurate pricing and availability. Jack’s vision for private aviation includes making luxury travel more accessible through streamlined processes, cutting-edge technology, and top-tier service.
Whether you’re interested in chartering a private jet, exploring fractional ownership, or simply understanding the future of private aviation technology, this episode covers it all. Discover how FlyHouse is pushing the boundaries of innovation to enhance the overall private flying experience.
This episode is sponsored by Video Valet, a premier video production service for luxury brands. Mention "Ironbird" to receive a complimentary custom iPad with your purchase.
In this episode of the Ironbird Podcast, we sit down with Paul Nolta, Vice President of J.P. Morgan Private Bank, to dive deep into the world of private jet financing. Paul shares his expert insights on how economic shifts, like looming federal funds rate cuts, impact aircraft financing and what buyers need to know to navigate the current market. Whether you’re purchasing a new or pre-owned jet, Paul walks us through the different financing strategies, risk management, and how J.P. Morgan customizes solutions to fit each client’s unique wealth strategy.
Episode Highlights:
This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering private jet ownership or looking to optimize their aircraft financing strategy.
Special Offer:
Sponsored by Video Valet! Mention "Ironbird" when you purchase, and receive a free custom iPad. Learn more at www.videovalet.com.
Listen now: www.flyironbird.com/private_jet_podcast