PRIORITY PASS

Adel Mardini, Founder and CEO of private jet terminal operator Jetex, is used to catering to the most demanding of HNWI travelers. As demand for sustainable and personalized travel increases, he’s looking to Africa and the U.S. for expansion.

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Patience, flexibility, and many deep breaths are almost a prerequisite when facing a typical airport experience. There are often long lines to check in, pass security, and board the plane. Delayed flights, lost luggage, and canceled plans can create additional stress and uncertainty. The constant announcements over the blaring intercom only add to the chaos.

The experience is a stark contrast to the customercentric experience of flying privately. At the Jetex VIP terminal in Dubai, for example, the travel journey is purposefully designed to be stress-free and seamless. “Our crew has time-based KPIs for all guest experiences,” says Adel Mardini, Founder and CEO of Jetex. “When a flight lands, travelers must be in their car within 20 minutes and luggage delivered between seven to 12 minutes. At airports, you are a passenger. But at Jetex, you are a guest.”

Mardini founded Jetex in Dubai in 2005 to cater to the needs of the most discerning travelers in private aviation. While it doesn’t have its own fleet, the company operates private jet terminals—or fixed base operators (FBOs)—that offer services including managing private passenger jets, aircraft fueling, ground handling, and global trip planning for both owners and operators of business jets for corporate, commercial, and personal air travel. Mardini also serves as a board member of the Middle East Business Aviation Association and the Dubai Airshow.