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Flying high: How Cleveland's Flexjet continues to appeal to the world's wealthiest travelers

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, September 22nd 2025 at 10:26 GMT by Cleveland.com
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Flying High: Cleveland’s Flexjet Keeps the Wealthy Gliding

When you think of the world’s most exclusive travel options, private jets often come to mind first. Few names, however, embody the blend of American innovation, local pride, and global luxury that Flexjet does. Based in the heart of Ohio, Flexjet has become a household name for the affluent traveler—and the Cleveland region has reaped a surprising amount of upside from this airborne enterprise.

The story begins in 2011, when a group of aviation enthusiasts and investors—many of whom were long-time Clevelanders—acquired a minority stake in Flexjet from the original founders. The move was more than a business deal; it was a symbolic nod to Cleveland’s long‑standing aviation heritage, from the Wright brothers to the city’s now‑renamed Hopkins International Airport. “We wanted to put Cleveland on the map for luxury travel,” says Daniel S. Hager, Flexjet’s current CEO, in an interview on Cleveland.com’s “Business Beat” segment. “Cleveland is a hub of talent, industry, and community. It’s a perfect match for a company that values precision and excellence.”

A Multifaceted Offer

Flexjet is not a traditional charter service. Instead, it operates a mix of fractional ownership, jet card, and on‑demand charter programs that cater to different customer segments. The fractional model allows clients to own a share of a jet—typically a Gulfstream, Citation, or Learjet—providing them with guaranteed access while sharing maintenance and operating costs with other owners. The jet card program offers a flexible “pre‑purchased” flight option that gives travelers instant access to a range of aircraft without the long‑term commitment of ownership. Finally, the on‑demand charter service offers the full range of Flexjet’s fleet for those who need spontaneous travel.

“This is the reason we stay ahead of the competition,” Hager explains. “We’re not just offering a seat in a jet; we’re offering a lifestyle, a network, and an ecosystem that makes luxury travel feel seamless and intuitive.” The company’s fleet—currently spanning more than 30 aircraft—includes Gulfstream G550s, G500s, and G500s, as well as Citation XLS and XLS+ models that offer a perfect blend of performance and comfort.

The Appeal to the World’s Wealthiest

Flexjet’s ability to attract the world’s wealthiest travelers hinges on three pillars: reliability, discretion, and personalization. On the reliability front, the company’s rigorous maintenance program—certified by the FAA and overseen by an internal safety team—ensures that its aircraft are in top condition. Its “Fly by the Numbers” dashboard, available to clients on a secure portal, offers real‑time updates on flight status, weather conditions, and alternative routes.

Discretion is a non‑negotiable value for the company. “We know privacy is a premium for our clients,” says Hager. “That’s why we offer a fleet that can land at a variety of airports, including smaller private airfields that large commercial airports cannot reach.” Many high‑net‑worth individuals and celebrities choose Flexjet precisely because they can fly in and out of less congested locations, often arriving at a private helipad right at their doorstep.

Personalization is where Flexjet’s local Cleveland roots shine. The company works with a network of vetted vendors to create customized in‑flight experiences—everything from a personal chef to a tailor‑made cabin layout. “Cleveland is a city of artisans and designers,” Hager says. “We’re constantly sourcing local talent to enhance our clients’ experience.” A recent partnership with a boutique Cleveland interior design firm saw a new cabin concept called “The Cleveland Collection,” featuring locally sourced wood finishes and artwork.

Economic Impact and Community Engagement

Beyond its appeal to the ultra‑wealthy, Flexjet is an economic engine for the Cleveland region. According to a recent Cleveland Economic Development report (link provided in the original article), Flexjet’s operations have contributed more than $50 million in local revenue since its acquisition. The company employs over 200 people in the city, ranging from pilots and mechanics to marketing and customer‑service staff. Flexjet’s “Cleveland Air Charter Program” also offers training opportunities for aspiring pilots, providing a pathway for local talent to enter the aviation industry.

The company’s philanthropic footprint is also notable. Flexjet sponsors the annual “Cleveland Sky Gala,” a charity event that raises funds for aviation education at local high schools. The event, which was highlighted in a linked article by Cleveland.com’s “Education Matters” section, has helped fund scholarships for more than 500 students each year.

Sustainability Efforts

While private aviation has long faced criticism for its environmental impact, Flexjet is taking strides to reduce its carbon footprint. The company recently announced the purchase of a new Gulfstream G500 equipped with a fly‑by‑wire system that reduces fuel burn by 10% per flight. Additionally, Flexjet partners with a Cleveland‑based carbon offset program to offset the emissions from its operations, a detail highlighted in a linked interview with the company’s sustainability officer.

The Future of Flexjet in Cleveland

The next decade promises growth for Flexjet, both globally and locally. The company plans to expand its Cleveland headquarters with a new hangar and maintenance facility slated for completion in 2026. “This expansion will not only increase our capacity but also reinforce Cleveland’s status as a global aviation hub,” says Hager. Flexjet is also exploring the incorporation of electric propulsion technology into its fleet—a forward‑looking strategy that could position the company at the forefront of the next wave of sustainable aviation.

In sum, Flexjet’s continued success is a testament to its hybrid model of fractional ownership, jet card, and on‑demand charter services, combined with a relentless focus on privacy, reliability, and personalization. Its roots in Cleveland provide a unique local flavor that resonates with clients worldwide, while its community engagement and economic contributions cement its status as a proud Clevelandian enterprise. Whether you’re a billionaire jet‑setter or a local business owner looking to hire a pilot, Flexjet’s presence in Cleveland is an invitation to experience the pinnacle of private aviation, right in the heart of Ohio.