13 December 2019: Delta Air Lines is partnering with Wheels Up to create one of the world's largest owned and managed fleets of private aircraft. This collaboration will make private aviation available to more consumers and provide unparalleled travel options
The companies have signed an agreement in which Delta Private Jets will combine with Wheels Up. The transaction will pair Wheels Up's membership programmes, innovative digital platform and world-class lifestyle experiences with Delta Private Jets' renowned reliability, safety, service and scale. When the transaction closes, Wheels Up will have a fleet of over 190 private aircraft and over 8,000 members and customers. Delta will also have an equity position in Wheels Up.
"This groundbreaking partnership will democratize private aviation - making the convenience of private jet travel accessible to more consumers," said Delta CEO Ed Bastian. "Wheels Up's lifestyle experiences and innovative digital platform, combined with the scale and service of Delta Private Jets, helps further Delta's mission of connecting people and communities worldwide through travel. This agreement is the latest step in Delta's ongoing effort to build partnerships that extend Delta's brand beyond its core business."
"Bringing together our complementary businesses, which represent the best consumer brands in private and commercial aviation, is transformative and a first for the industry," said Wheels Up's Founder and CEO Kenny Dichter. "The combination of Wheels Up and Delta Private Jets, along with the partnership commitments between Delta and Wheels Up, aligns with our growth objectives and vision of building a platform that will make private flying and the private flying lifestyle accessible to significantly more individuals and businesses in the US and around the world."