In a city where launch parties are as ubiquitous as the ultra lounges and celebrity chef restaurants that regularly take root here, the launch of a private jet service in Southern Nevada is a rare occurrence. Business executives and the well-heeled gathered among hand-passed hors d’oeuvres and an open bar inside a hanger at the Henderson Executive Airport, eleven miles southeast of Las Vegas, for the official launch announcement by Lucky Jets.
Conceptualized for a market segment who browses through the ultra-affluent Robb Report, Lucky Jets is like ride-share program for those who find commercial flying too “uncomfortable” and seek the intimacy of a private jet. Nonetheless, you could still be flying with strangers. Among the Lucky fleet of business jets, was a 2008 Beechcraft Premier 1A that found a spot inside the launch party. It carries four passengers, cruises at five-hundred miles an hour, and features a cozy interior with adjustable club seats. A comfortable environment for four people who can afford private jet service costing about $5,200 between Las Vegas and Los Angeles.
The Kurt Busch Foundation was selling $100 raffle tickets for a smart-looking 2009 Dodge Challenger. But most eyeballs were staring at the lime-green Lamborghini Gallardo. Others stood around a luxury yacht from Italian manufacturer Azimat. It smelled like conspicuous consumption most of the time.
John Lear, one of the most recognizable figures in aviation, was among the guests.
“John is the most decorated pilot around,” says Reza Karamooz, CEO of Lucky Jets. “He has flown every type of aircraft around and has more pilot certifications from the FAA than anyone else.”
Welcome to Southern Nevada, Lucky. Keep your wheels up.