Auto dealers put private aviation to work

Running an automotive dealership requires travel for acquisitions, OEM meetings, and industry conferences that can sap dealership owners of the time and focus they need to keep their business on track. As your dealership business grows and your time becomes increasingly valuable, flying privately for your business or even leisure can help you put that time to best use.

The benefits of flying privately

When taking commercial flights, even at the most convenient airports, you’ll likely spend hours getting to the airport, clearing security, retrieving your baggage, and traveling to your destination. Smaller airports that cater to private aircraft are more widely distributed geographically—often closer to your destination—and can significantly reduce your travel time.  While on board, you’ll have the privacy to hold business meetings, be able to stay connected via Wi-Fi, and arrive more relaxed after traveling in a more comfortable setting.

Besides time, crowds, and hassle, there are the pervasive health concerns of flying in an age of global pandemics, and that’s created many first-time aircraft buyers. Smaller airports, smaller planes, and less time in crowded public places (whether at the airport or on commercial flights) add up to a reduced risk of exposure to germs.

Lately, travel delays have been more than mere inconveniences—they can disrupt your business commitments and schedule. In the first six months of 2022, 24% of commercial flights in the US have been delayed and 3.2% have been canceled.^{Disclosure 1} What happens when cancelled flights lead to missed meetings or a change of plans at the last minute? Private aviation can help protect you from the opportunity costs of lost time.

The comfort of traveling in your own plane makes a difference when your business depends on your leadership. A flight in a cramped seat next to a traveling companion you didn’t select likely won’t leave you rested and ready for business.

How much will it cost?

Choosing the private aviation that’s best for you starts with your approach to what types of trips you’ll want to take, where you need to go, how often you’ll travel, how many other passengers will travel with you, etc.  Your plans will determine what type of aircraft would best meet your travel needs—turboprop, light jet, or large cabin aircraft.

You may choose to buy an aircraft and offset a portion of the ownership expenses by placing the aircraft on a Part 135 certificate with an aircraft management company. Consult with your financial and tax advisor as it relates to current bonus deprecation benefits for new and preowned aircraft as well as Part 91 and Part 135 usage.