Private Jets in Formula 1: The Epitome of Luxury
Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsports, is synonymous with luxury and extravagance. As such, it is no surprise that private jet usage is prevalent within the sport. Drivers, executives, and sponsors alike utilize private aircraft to travel to races and other events in style and comfort.
Driver-Owned Jets and Team Partnerships
Some Formula 1 drivers own their private jets, while others rely on aircraft provided by their teams. Partnerships with charter companies are also common, allowing teams to access a fleet of aircraft for their travel needs. For example, Scuderia Ferrari has a partnership with VistaJet, a private jet charter company that provides the team with access to a wide range of aircraft.
HondaJet’s Partnership with AlphaTauri
Honda Aircraft Company has a long-standing partnership with AlphaTauri, which was previously known as Toro Rosso. In 2020, Honda Aircraft delivered a HondaJet Elite to the team, which has since been sporting the F1 team’s livery. The aircraft has been spotted flying between various European airports, although it was not present at the Shanghai International Circuit for the Chinese Grand Prix.
Lewis Hamilton’s Bombardier Challenger 605
Seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton is known for his love of aviation. He previously owned a Bombardier Challenger 605, which he used to travel with his dogs. The aircraft was registered as G-LCDH and was last operated by London Executive Aviation Ltd 11EB.
Fernando Alonso and EMCJET
Fernando Alonso, the most experienced driver on the Formula 1 grid, has partnered with EMCJET, a full-service aircraft brokerage and management company. The company has not disclosed the details of the partnership, but Alonso has been spotted traveling with EMCJET on several occasions.
Max Verstappen’s Dassault Falcon 900EX
Reigning Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen flies around the world in his Dassault Falcon 900EX private jet, registered as PH-OTF. The aircraft features a distinctive all-black livery with orange accents, representing Verstappen’s home country of the Netherlands. The aircraft is not visible on most flight tracking websites, including ADS-B Exchange.
Conclusion
Private jet usage is an integral part of Formula 1, providing drivers, executives, and sponsors with a luxurious and convenient way to travel to races and other events. Partnerships with charter companies and aircraft manufacturers are common, and some drivers even own their private jets. As Formula 1 continues to grow in popularity and revenue, it is likely that private jet usage will only become more prevalent in the future.
