Nothing beats a Jet2 business-class flight quite like an all-business-class plane from a low-cost airline.
An unlikely marriage between budget airlines and luxury travel is taking shape, with low-cost carriers turning their attention to “high-end” customers.
Though it might sound counterintuitive at a time of inflation, cost-of-living protests in major European cities and rising travel costs, courtesy in part of wars in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, demand for more luxurious flying experiences appears to be taking off, even as travellers tighten their belts.
Jet2, the British low-cost airline whose catchy Nothing beats a Jet2Holiday advert became a viral sensation, is the latest to embrace the trend. Joining companies like BeOn and La Compagnie, two airlines specialising in all-business-class travel, the company has introduced its first aircraft dedicated entirely to business-class passengers.
However, it is not open to all. Unlike its regular holiday flights, the new VIP aircraft, based at Liverpool John Lennon Airport, is available exclusively for private group charters.
A Boeing 737–800 NG has been reconfigured to this end. To ensure more space, it has but 76 seats, instead of the 189 seats typically squeezed into its low-cost economy layout. The latter has no business-class seats at all.
Fewer seats mean considerably more legroom, with at least 109 cm in the reconfigured cabin, compared with around 76 cm in a normal economy cabin.
The new seats feature black leather-like upholstery, wide armrests and fold-down tray tables. Photographs reveal what appears to be adjustable footrests, allowing travellers to put their feet up.
Catering has followed suit, with upgraded meals and drinks to match the luxurious surroundings. They are tailored to the requirements of each charter group.
According to Jet2, the new all-business-class configuration comes in response to growing demand from sports teams, musicians, entertainment companies and other specialist groups looking for privacy, comfort and flexibility when travelling together.
The company has previously flown professional football teams in its standard economy-configured aircraft. With this conversion, it could very well appeal to top-tier Premier League clubs, offering much-needed extra legroom for players to stretch out and rest between matches.
“This is the first time that we have featured a dedicated business class specification on our aircraft, so this is an incredibly exciting development for charter customers”, said Trevor Caplis, head of charter and airline sales at Jet2.
“The feedback from charter customers who have flown on it has been exceptional, with the premium feel, space and comfort onboard really shining through. This luxurious cabin environment, alongside the award-winning Jet2 customer service, looks set to be a huge hit with charter clients this winter.”
The aircraft has already welcomed its first charter passengers, and bookings for the winter season are open, with the service available until May 2027.
Prices have not been publicly disclosed. Quotations depend on the specific requirements of each group.
