Vista: Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence in Private Aviation

For more than two decades, Vista, the global leader in business aviation, has continually set the benchmark for innovation, service, and excellence at 40,000 feet. What started as a European endeavor has evolved into a worldwide force in private aviation, with a growing presence in the United States. By consistently investing in talent, technology, and infrastructure, Vista has pushed the boundaries of business jet travel, becoming the trusted choice for world leaders, elite athletes, and private clients across the globe.

Founded in 2004 by visionary Thomas Flohr, Vista revolutionized private aviation with a pioneering business model that granted Members access to an entire fleet of jets without the traditional financial commitment of fractional ownership. This pay-as-you-fly approach was a game-changer, earning the company a place as one of the first unicorns in the business aviation industry.

At the helm of the company’s U.S. expansion is Leona Qi, President of Vista U.S., who has been recognized by Forbes as a trailblazer in the future of female leadership within the industry. Under her guidance, Vista has rapidly grown its North American market—the largest and fastest-growing sector in business aviation.

Vista’s comprehensive portfolio of services is delivered through its flagship brands, VistaJet and XO. VistaJet Members enjoy guaranteed access to a fleet of jets within 24 hours' notice, from anywhere in the world. Known for its distinctive silver and red liveried aircraft, Vista has redefined luxury air travel with its attention to detail. Each flight on the Vista Members’ fleet has at least one highly trained Cabin Host, who undergoes extensive training from institutions like the British Butler Institute and Norland College, ensuring an exceptional in-flight experience. XO, VistaJet’s sister brand, provides access to one of the industry’s most extensive fleets, ranging from light jets to ultra-long-range aircraft, with transparent, real-time pricing. XO’s flexibility appeals to a broad audience, from individuals chartering entire jets to passengers booking seats on established routes—especially popular on flights from New York City to Palm Beach and Aspen.

Among its many innovations, Vista was the first to introduce the Bombardier Global 7500 fleet—celebrated as the pinnacle of long-haul business jets. With an impressive 17-hour non-stop range, jetlag-reducing technology, and four distinct living spaces, the Global 7500 offers travelers an exceptional experience in the sky. Whether conducting a board meeting, relaxing with family, or traveling between continents, the Global 7500 has become a byword for luxury, performance, and comfort. Vista now boasts the largest Global 7500 fleet in the world, with 18 of these remarkable aircraft in service, frequently facilitating trips such as California to Asia, Texas to Alaska, and Seattle to Anguilla.

Vista’s aircraft interiors are a reflection of the brand's commitment to refined simplicity and universal elegance. The design philosophy is both practical and sophisticated, with a palette of neutral tones, accented by rich wood textures and subtle pops of color. The spaces are formal enough for professional occasions but warm and inviting for personal trips—ensuring passengers feel at home, no matter where in the world they’re flying.

Renowned not only for its fleet but also for its groundbreaking in-flight services that are offered exclusively to VistaJet Members—from its award-winning Private Dining, innovative programs like VistaPet, Adventures in the Sky for children, and the industry’s first 360-degree Wellness Program—the company offers personalized experiences for every passenger. And through its Private World program, the company partners with a global network of luxury providers to create bespoke itineraries that transport Members to the most exclusive and remote destinations. Whether it’s sailing past glaciers on a private yacht in Greenland or embarking on a guided desert expedition in Namibia, the demand for these tailor-made experiences has surged, with requests doubling in 2023, and 2024 set to surpass this remarkable growth.

VistaJet has also become the trusted travel partner for some of the world’s most elite athletes across motorsport, golf, and beyond. Formula 1 stars Carlos Sainz and Charles LeClerc, along with golf legends Jon Rahm and Phil Mickelson, are among the many top-tier athletes who rely on the company’s precision, service, and reliability to ensure peak performance. Phil Mickelson summed up his experience, stating, “The greatest decision I made after owning a plane for twenty years was selling it and going with VistaJet because it has reduced my stress levels exponentially.”

In its 20 years, Vista has flown governments, corporations, and private clients to over 200 countries and territories, becoming synonymous with reliability, trust, and impeccable safety standards. With a dedicated team of more than 4,000 professionals, the company has repeatedly been recognized as an exceptional place to work, further solidifying its standing as a brand that represents excellence in every facet of its operation.

Vista’s journey from a European disruptor to a global leader in private aviation has been marked by a commitment to pushing the limits of what’s possible. As it celebrates two decades of achievement, the company continues to soar to new heights—pioneering the future of business aviation for the next generation of flyers.