Fort Lauderdale-based private jet provider Monarch Air Group shares the top routes from Europe to Florida on a private jet and claims the best airports to land.
With the travel ban being lifted in early November to enter the U.S., international private jet charters are expected to increase demand during the next few months. Domestic private aviation movements have hit a record high in the states, due to the grounding of commercial airlines and passengers seeking a safer and reliable service, with less touchpoints and the ability to control the overall travel process.
With most airlines still lacking usual international frequencies, those wanting to cross the pond and enjoy the amenities of South Florida and its top golf courses, should do so on a private jet. For Monarch Air Group, leading private jet company based in Florida, the top 10 routes to and from South Florida in order of flights since 2019 are England, Germany, Spain, France, Ireland, Sweden, Norway, Portugal, Italy, and Scotland.
Specifically, with the U.K. as the departure point, the main private jet routes are to Miami-Opa Locka Airport, one of the top executive airports in the country and located only 30 minutes from downtown Miami, and to Teterboro Airport in New Jersey, known as the top private jet terminal in the U.S. in number of movements and overall infrastructure – two strategically located airports for U.K. travellers on the U.S. East Coast.
Regarding the type of aircraft, some of the most used transatlantic private jets are the Challenger 604, Gulfstream G-450, Falcon 900, Falcon 2000, Global Express, Gulfstream G-550, and Falcon 7X. The price will vary depending on the distance and type of aircraft chartered.
Private charter amenities
When travelling on a private flight, passengers do not have to worry about checking in golf equipment or paying extra fees due to weight policies. It will not be damaged during the flight and clients can travel with them in the cabin.
After arriving on the chosen private jet terminal, a quick drive awaits to the golf course. Here are the top five country clubs in South Florida that are close to an executive airport that can service large private jets:
1) Seminole G.C., Juno Beach
Considered by some as the best course in all Florida, with beautiful views to the Atlantic Ocean, it is located only 30 minutes from Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) by car. North Palm Beach County Airport is also within the vicinities of the Seminole G.C, nevertheless, its runways can only service smaller private jet aircraft and not transatlantic executive jets.
2) Calusa Pines G.C., Naples
Located in Southwest Florida, Calusa Pines is near the beautiful Naples. Yes, there is also a town called Naples in the U.S.! You can land your jet at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) just 35 minutes from Calusa Pines. By travelling on a private jet, you do not need to enter the country via Miami International Airport, more than two hours away by car from the country club.
3) Palm Beach Gardens, Palm Beach
What is golf in Florida without Palm Beach? Home of the PGA, Palm Beach Gardens hosts The Honda Classic on a yearly basis while also attracting worldwide private jet traffic to the event. The course is best served by Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), roughly 30 minutes from the course. Boca Raton Airport might also seem like an option, but do not be confused, its runway length cannot service large private jets.
4) Winter Park Golf Course, Orlando
Yes, Orlando is so much more than Disney World. Whether travelling with family or friends, Orlando offers exceptional golf courses. And one of the best is Winter Park, located just under 10 kilometres from Orlando city centre and 40 minutes by ground from Orlando International Airport (MCO), a terminal prepared to service any aircraft in the world. Although considered Central Florida, when crossing the pond, Orlando is definitely worth a visit any time of the year.
5) Trump National Doral and Indian Creek C.C, Miami
If Miami is your destination, then a must-stop is at the Trump National in Doral, Miami. Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport (OPF) is 35 minutes north from the course, which can service all types of jets, while some large private aircraft can also land at Miami Executive Airport (TMB), just 25 minutes away. Private jet providers like Monarch Air Group will help passengers choose the appropriate model for each airport.
And when in the area, Miami Beach, the myth, the legend, is a must stop. Indian Creek offers great golf and views. Two airports are almost at the same distance, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) at 40 minutes by car and also Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport (OPF) at 35. Nevertheless, from a private aviation experience perspective it is highly recommended to use the latter, as Fort Lauderdale also services various domestic commercial carriers. In fact, Miami International Airport (MIA) is even closer, but the crowdedness and traffic does not make it a comfortable option.
In essence, since the pandemic started in late 2019, there is no better time to charter a transatlantic private jet to the U.S. than today. Borders are open and the entire private air experience secures reduced touchpoints and a very safe flight from start to finish. Grab your clubs, your swimming costume and prepare for a lifetime golf experience in South Florida!
The Monarch Air Group website provides an instant quote service and Top100golfcourses is a very useful guide to the courses.
