Best Places to Visit by Private Jet in 2024

As the clock ticks down on the final moments of 2023, it’s time for business aviators to switch their gaze toward the sky and envision a year filled with new adventures. We at Icarus Jet, your premium private jet charter companion, invite you to buckle up for a countdown to the best places to visit via private jet in 2024. Without further ado, let’s get into it.

Switzerland

Where is the scenery as stunning as the chocolate is sweet? Yep, you guessed it. Switzerland is one of the most popular private jet destinations in 2024. Just make sure you’re Swiss-watch punctual for your flight. As your plane soars over the Swiss Alps, you’ll realize that even the mountains here are showing off, giving you a view that could make any other landscape green (or snowy) with envy. Then, there’s peace-loving political Geneva, medieval Lucerne, the lively pulse of bustling Bahnhofstrasse in Zurich, and the snow-kissed slopes of St. Moritz. The options to explore are endless. In 2024, there are a few Swiss events that you should mark on your calendars.

1. THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM (15 – 19 January): The 54th annual meeting of the WEF is held in Davos each year. The most popular airport handling international flights is Zurich International, with a 2 hours drive time by road. However, Samedan exclusively handles general aviation traffic and is closer by 30 minutes. Unfortunately, it usually faces weather challenges, being the second highest airport in Europe. 
2. SNOW POLO WORLD CUP (26 – 28 January): St. Mortiz will be hosting this yearly competition for the 39th time. This unique event is the sole high-goal snow polo tournament globally, offering three days of top-tier polo against the stunning backdrop of the Engadin Valley’s snow-covered peaks. The same two airports are applicable here for nearest options. 
3. WHITE TURF (04 – 18 February): Since 1907, St. Moritz’s White Turf has hosted elite winter horse racing on the frozen lake amid breathtaking mountains. Beyond the wealthy, it unites global stakeholders, becoming a local calendar highlight with steadfast sponsorship for decades.
4. ART BASEL (13 – 16 June): Located at the juncture of country borders, Basel hosts an international art show where 250+ leading galleries showcase works from 4,000+ artists. Daily art talks and additional exhibitions by cultural institutions in Basel and the surrounding region make it a vibrant, region-wide art week. The EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, situated only 15 minutes northwest of Basel, is the nearest airfield to the city. 
5. MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL (05 – 20 July): MJF 2024 returns to the historic Casino setup and embraces UNESCO recognition for its musical heritage. The revamped layout promises a unique journey for 250,000 attendees. Sion Airport is only a 45 minute car journey away from Montreux.

The United States

For all jet-setters with a taste for the high skies and a penchant for the finer things – the United States in 2024 isn’t just a destination; it’s a five-star fiesta in the sky. Get ready to paint the town red, white, and blue as your private jet connects you to the land of the American Dream. Let’s look at a few events lined up for the year – from sports to entertainment, and you shouldn’t miss out on any of them.

1. SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL (18 – 28 January): This festival in Park City, Utah, founded by Robert Redford, annually transforms the town into a hub for independent filmmakers, pushing creative boundaries and leaving a lasting impact on contemporary cinema. The closest airports are the Heber Valley Municipal and the Salt Lake City Airports, around 20 and 40 minutes of drive time each. 
2. THE SUPER BOWL (11th February): The “Big Game” in the United States, held every February, is an iconic spectacle featuring the pinnacle of American football with the NFL. The event will take place at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. The Harry Reid International Airport is only 7 minutes away from the venue.
3. THE MASTERS (08 – 14 April): The Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia hosts this prestigious annual golf tournament, symbolized by the iconic green jacket. With a revered course and global participation, it’s a highly anticipated event in professional golf. Daniel Field stands as a general aviation airport, positioned only 5 minutes southwest of Augusta National. It features a private terminal and offers FBO services for the convenience of aviation enthusiasts. Augusta Regional airport is a quarter hour drive close.
4. INDIANAPOLIS 500 (26th May): The Indy 500, a legendary annual motorsport spectacle at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, features high-speed IndyCars competing in an exhilarating 500-mile race, epitomizing the core of American racing culture. The Indianapolis airfield is approximately 17 minutes away from downtown.
5. ICC T20 MEN’S CRICKET WORLD CUP (04 – 30 June): The United States is poised to host its inaugural T20 World Cup, selecting Grand Prairie in Dallas, Broward County in Florida, and Nassau County in New York as the venues. Airport options are aplenty, but book in advance to avoid the demand-high.

France

Quelle joie de vivre? It’s a luxe journey to France in 2024 by private jet charter. There’s a lot of things to do here. Soar over the Eiffel Tower in Paris, savor culinary delights in Lyon, explore historic Nice, and indulge in the glamor of Cannes. Whether it’s the charm of Strasbourg or the vineyards of Bordeaux, all destinations are magnifique. Here’s what should be on your radar in 2024.

1. FASHION WEEK PARIS (26 February – 5 March): Anticipate a fashion extravaganza at Paris Fashion Week as designers reveal their vision for the Women’s Collections Fall/Winter 2024–2025. The event promises a fusion of innovation and timeless elegance, setting the stage for upcoming trends. Le Bourget Airport, dedicated to business aviation with several VIP terminals, is located three quarters an hour away from the center.
2. CANNES FILM FESTIVAL (14 – 25 May): The 77th version of this festival beckons an annual cinematic extravaganza on the French Riviera, attracting filmmakers and celebrities to celebrate the best in international cinema. Nice Airport, just a 30-minute drive from the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. However, the closest airport for private jets attending the Festival is Cannes Mandelieu Airport, exclusively accessible to private aircraft.
3. ROLAND GARROS/ FRENCH OPEN (20 May – 9 June): The tournament is named after the French aviator Roland Garros and is a primary event in the world of tennis, attracting top players from around the globe to Paris. There are a lot of private jet charter options to Paris.
4. SUMMER OLYMPICS (26 July – 11 August): The Summer Olympics, a global showcase for athletic excellence, returns to Paris in 2024 for the sixth time. This quadrennial event unites athletes worldwide, promoting unity, friendship, and inspiring performances. 

United Arab Emirates

A private jet charter to the UAE is full of fun. There’s Dubai’s towering Burj Khalifa, Abu Dhabi’s grandeur, and indulgence in the artsy vibe of Sharjah. Then, there’s the luxury of Ras Al Khaimah and the serene beaches of Fujairah. In 2024, there are some special events you need to bookmark.

1. DUBAI WORLD CUP (30th March): Saddle up for the Dubai World Cup at Meydan Racecourse, where equestrian excellence meets opulence against Dubai’s skyline. Join the crowd, place your bets, and witness champions in one of the world’s most prestigious racecourses. The venue is only a fifteen minute drive from Dubai International.
2. CJI DUBAI 2024 (April): This event promises two days of networking with an anticipated attendance of over 250+ operators, aircraft managers, FBOs, MROs, appraisers, and other specialized consultants in MEA. Sharjah International Airport acts as the domestic HQ.
3. AIR EXPO ABU DHABI (29 – 31 October): Explore cutting-edge aircraft, aerospace tech, and services, all against the dynamic backdrop of Abu Dhabi’s skyline. Join industry leaders and enthusiasts for high-flying shows. Last year, the venue was at Al Bateen Executive Airport. 
4. JGT Dubai Show (12 – 14 November): Held at Dubai Exhibition Centre, this show features gemstone merchants and jewelry producers to unveil a year’s worth of dedication and investments to a global audience of buyers. Entry and exit airports for private jet charter to Dubai are very modern. 

Germany

Yes, Germany is a pretty happening country to private jet charter in 2024. It is consistently one of the most sought-after places to visit in Europe because of the people, the food and the culture. There are a few events to pay heed to:

1. BERLIN AIR SHOW (05 – 09 June): Taking place biennially at Berlin Schönefeld Airport, the first three days cater exclusively to industry professionals, reserving the last two for the general public. 
2. UEFA EURO 2024 (14 June – 14 July): The ten venues for Euro 2024 include Berlin, Dortmund, Munich, Cologne, Stuttgart, Hamburg, Leipzig, Frankfurt, Gelsenkirchen, and Düsseldorf. The winning team of this 17th edition of European football will later compete in the 2025 cup.
3. OKTOBERFEST 2024 (21 September – 06 October): Held in Munich, Germany, this is the world’s largest beer festival, blending Bavarian culture with lively music and cuisine. Private jets to Munich can choose between Munich International Airport, a 20-minute drive from the city center, and Munich Oberpfaffenhofen Airport (OBF). OBF is exclusively for private jet travelers and is approximately 20 minutes southwest of the city.

Icarus Jet provides jet charters to all destinations around the globe. Contact us today to book your trip!