We talk about the rise of private aviation, multi-generation travellers and Latin dance with VistaJet’s Amy Yang.
A regular traveller who jets between bases in Asia and home in Dubai (and everywhere in between), Amy Yang, vice president Marketing APAC & IMEA for Vista Global and VistaJet, is the very definition of a jetsetter. She shares her passion for private aviation, gourmet foodie experiences, and Latin dance.
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Tell us about the growth of private jet travel in Asia-Pacific and what trends your noticing.
VistaJet has experienced a significant surge in demand during the first three quarters of 2024. In the Asia Pacific region, we observed a 14% growth in total flight hours, a 20% increase in the number of flights, and a 15% rise in Program Membership, which remains particularly popular in this region.
We are also noticing a clear shift away from aircraft ownership as more clients turn to our subscription membership model. This asset-free solution allows clients to enjoy the benefits of private flying without the financial burden and asset risk associated with ownership. It provides guaranteed service and a reliable solution for seamless point-to-point travel, anytime and anywhere.
Additionally, there’s a growing demand for large-cabin aircraft capable of non-stop, long-haul flights. VistaJet’s fleet of Global 7500 – the largest and longest-range aircraft in the world – has been a popular choice among our Members.
What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the private aviation industry in APAC?
When it comes to challenges, the first thing that comes to mind is infrastructure. Clients choosing private aviation have specific needs, particularly around privacy and efficiency, which commercial flight infrastructure often can not adequately address. In many major cities across APAC, private aviation still shares facilities and infrastructure with commercial airlines, limiting the seamless and exclusive experience clients expect from private travel.
That said, governments in the region are investing in expanding infrastructure to cater specifically to private aviation. For example, in Hong Kong, we are excited about the opening of the third runway and the expansion of HKBAC. I look forward to seeing more investments across the region to meet the growing demand for private aviation.
In terms of opportunities, APAC presents significant potential for VistaJet. As I mentioned earlier, there is a clear shift from aircraft ownership to our Program Membership. This allows clients to enjoy the flexibility and world-class service VistaJet offers globally at a fraction of the cost of ownership.
This trend extends to corporate clients as well. Many companies have multiple executives who need to depart from different locations simultaneously. Under the traditional ownership model, this would require owning multiple jets, which is not financially viable. With our Membership program, corporates can efficiently cater to the individual schedules of their executives, enabling them to take off anytime, anywhere in the world.
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Asian flyers are among the savviest and most sophisticated travellers. They have high expectations for customer service and value comfort and space whenever they travel. Our Asian Members particularly appreciate the space and luxury offered by the Global 7500, making it a popular choice in the region for both short-haul and long-haul flights.
What are some of the most popular global destinations for Asian private jet travellers, and what makes these places particularly appealing?
In the first three quarters of 2024, Singapore, Hong Kong, Kula Lumpur, and Tokyo are some of the most popular destinations for Asian travellers. Time and efficiency are highly valued by high-net-worth individuals, and these cities are not only main business hubs but also offer a wealth of leisure activities. Additionally, the established infrastructure in these locations is well-equipped to meet the demands of private jet travellers.
Reflecting on your personal travels, what are some of your favourite destinations you’ve visited, and what drew you to those places?
I always enjoy visiting Japan—who doesn’t? The country offers some of the best food and breathtaking scenery. Its tranquillity clears your mind and helps you focus on inner peace. I particularly love immersing myself in nature, often with a nice cup of tea. I am deeply impressed by Japan’s spectacular craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, which ensure the highest quality in everything they do. Their dedication to excellence and uncompromising attitude towards quality align closely with what we strive for at VistaJet.
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Another destination that holds a special place in my heart is the Karimunjawa Islands in Indonesia (above). This secluded paradise, tucked away in the archipelagos of the Java Sea, is also a marine national park. Whether it’s scuba diving, hiking, or enjoying peaceful beach walks at sunrise, Karimunjawa offers a serene escape where you can find peace and spend quality time with your loved ones, surrounded by nature and an untouched coastline.
When travelling, what is the one thing we will never find you flying without?
My Latin dance shoes. Apart from my role at Vista, I am also an internationally qualified Latin dance teacher. I compete 4-5 times a year in international Latin and ballroom dance competitions around the world. Consistent training is very important, even while on the road, so I always try to find time and space to practice wherever I go.
The private jet experience is also about fine dining. Can you share your most memorable dining experience while travelling?
Some of my most memorable dining experiences, of course, are private dining at 45,000 feet with VistaJet. VistaJet’s gastronomy campaign collaborates with world-renowned chefs to bring their creations on our flights. As altitude changes, so does your palate. For me, the most remarkable aspect isn’t just about specific dishes but how the team perfectly replicates the flavours you would experience on the ground while dining in the air. To celebrate our 20th anniversary, we launched 20 Culinary Gems in the Sky, collaborating with 20 of the most extraordinary culinary geniuses of our time. Be sure to explore these recommendations—it’s hard to pick a favourite!
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It’s happy hour in your favourite city – where are we headed and why?
Out of all the breathtaking skylines I have been lucky enough to see so far, Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour still tops the list and holds a special place in my heart. Whenever I have friends visiting, I love taking them on Aqua Luna, a beautifully restored Chinese junk boat named after the infamous 19th-century pirate Cheung Po Tsai. It remains one of the last handcrafted red-sail junks still sailing the harbour.
There’s nothing quite like feeling the gentle sea breeze on the deck while sipping a cocktail as the sun sets over the harbour, casting golden hues across the water as the city’s shimmering skyscrapers and neon-lit skyline come alive. The iconic views make it an unforgettable experience.
Tell us about one truly unique experience VistaJet crafted for one of its clients.
On a flight to Turks and Caicos, a client was unable to land with the family cat due to a paperwork mix-up. The situation presented some difficult options, including the unthinkable possibility that the beloved feline might have to be “destroyed.” Prioritizing our guests’ safety and well-being, the VistaJet team quickly sprang into action, devising a plan to adopt the cat as an honorary crew member. The cat accompanied the crew on several flights until they arrived back in Europe, where she was finally reunited with her owner. In the meantime, our animal-loving crew had a playful new team member for the journey home!
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Where would you most love to travel to by private jet?
Definitely Africa. It’s a vast continent with diverse cultures and incredible landscapes, but connectivity remains a major challenge. More often than not, passengers travelling within Africa on commercial airlines must first fly out of the continent for a connecting flight before flying back in due to limited direct flight options.
In 2024, we organised two roadshows in Africa in 2024, covering four cities across three countries in just a week – something that would have been impossible with commercial airlines. Recognising Africa’s immense potential, VistaJet has a dedicated fleet in the region, providing point-to-point flights within the continent and beyond.
Africa offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and fascinating ecosystems. With VistaJet, families can embark on a life-changing safari adventure, exploring Africa’s natural wonders up close. From Singita Sweni Lodge, nestled along the riverbanks of the world-renowned Kruger National Park, to Singita Pamushana Lodge in Zimbabwe’s remote southeast, these exclusive retreats provide a curated daily lineup of activities, immersive wildlife experiences, and engaging educational programs that open young minds to the magic of Africa’s wilderness.
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What is the future of private aviation in light of changing travel preferences and advancements in technology?
The perception of private aviation as merely a luxury service with champagne and strawberries has evolved; it is now recognized as an efficient business tool. We foresee a continued shift from aircraft ownership to VistaJet’s subscription membership model, as clients and corporations recognize the flexibility and efficiency it offers. VistaJet remains at the forefront, adopting the most advanced innovation technologies to enhance safety, sustainability, and operational efficiency in the private aviation industry.
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