VistaJet
Formula 1 and private jets have had a long, cozy history. In the mid-1970s, World Drivers’ Champion Niki Lauda came to understand the convenience and cost efficiency of traveling by private jet—which he did frequently. More recently, Lewis Hamilton owned a red Bombardier Challenger 605 that became a fixture at private airports near race venues. Hamilton sold the Challenger, but other leading F1 drivers, including Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso, reportedly own business jets.
Private jet firm VistaJet has had a five-year partnership with Ferrari Scuderia (opening image) to fly drivers and principals to races around the world. VistaJet Chairman Thomas Flohr raced competitively with Ferrari for many years and was an official driver in the WEC. “We have experienced immense growth throughout this key market,” Flohr said in a statement.
Attendance by private jets at F1 events has exploded in the U.S.—to the point where many owners had to land their jets in Phoenix for last year’s Las Vegas Grand Prix because there were no hangar spaces in Vegas. Hundreds of jets are being also chartered for F1 events, including this month’s event in Austin, Texas. At the same time, a number of private-aviation firms and commercial airlines have created special F1 packages that offer insider access to the races, from meet-and-greets with the drivers to the best trackside views from luxury suites.
Here are our five favorites.
-
Etihad Airways
Image Credit: Getty Images Etihad Airways brings racing fans the excitement that comes with watching drivers going head to head on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina circuit, which has one of the longest straights of any Formula 1 race. The airline’s curated packages include flights, hotels, and race tickets for the sunset race. One of the most sought-after packages is the Paddock Club, featuring VIP access to the support race paddock, a 360-degree rooftop terrace, chauffeur service, and first-class hospitality at an open bar with top-label champagne and gourmet cuisine. After the race, there will be exclusive concerts with A-listers. Last year’s entertainment included the Killers, Lana Del Rey, and DJ Marshmello.
-
Qatar Airways
Image Credit: Qatar Airways Motorsports enthusiasts looking to head to Qatar Airways’ Qatar Grand Prix in Doha will want to take advantage of the airline’s Ultimate F1 Fan Packages. They offer flights, accommodations, race tickets, and exclusive experiences, ranging from access to the team garages to a meet-and-greet lunch with F1 Drivers. Each package comes with race tickets that provide entrance to all three days of events. The airline also offers exclusive access to the Lenovo US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, on October 22, the Rolex Grande Premio De São Paulo in early November, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on November 26.
-
Flexjet
Image Credit: Getty Images Another option for Austin? Flexjet is offering its fractional aircraft owners (and their guests) access to the company’s two-story suite at Turn 13, which offers some of the best views of the action on the track. That event happening too soon for hour schedule? At the Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix, Flexjet will host its customers in an open-air hospitality suite, with views of the fastest corner on the Miami track.
-
XO Firsts
Image Credit: Getty Images At October 22’s Grand Prix in Austin, XO private charters has designed a special racing weekend. The VIP paddock club passes feature the best views of the track, along with entry to join Robb Report’s RR1 event for an exclusive pre-race evening. The special racing weekend itinerary is part of a new program called XO Firsts. Each month, a series of first-come, first-serve events are announced for XO members.
-
Maverick Helicopters
Image Credit: F1 For one-of-a-kind views of the Heineken Silver Las Vegas Grand Prix track, Maverick Helicopters is offering guests a Vegas Victory Lap. The experience will take guests on a 12-minute helicopter journey, providing views of the 17-turn, 3.8-mile circuit. There are also opportunities to view iconic Vegas landmarks such as the Venetian and Allegiant Stadium—though F1 fans probably will stay glued to the track below.