VistaJet's Thomas Flohr: Redefining What It Means To Fly Private

1. You’ve redefined what it means to fly private. When you launched VistaJet in 2004, what was the gap in the market you set out to fill—and how has that vision evolved?

When I founded VistaJet in 2004, I saw a clear gap: there was no truly global private aviation service with a consistent and high-standard experience. Business aviation clients flying between continents would have to switch operators, aircraft type and service levels. It was fragmented and inefficient. 

My vision was to create a seamless, end-to-end global experience that mirrored the standards of the best luxury hospitality brands, but in the air, that Members could subscribe to. Twenty years later, that vision evolved into a global ecosystem.

2. VistaJet operates one of the largest fleets of Global 7500 business jets. What goes into curating a consistent experience at 45,000 feet, no matter where in the world your clients are flying?

Consistency is everything. Our fleet is standardized, so every aircraft in the Vista Members’ fleet offers the same look, feel, and level of comfort. But what truly differentiates the experience is our people, from our crew to our client services teams, who bring the experience to life.

We invest heavily in training and service design to ensure that no matter where a passenger boards, whether flying from New York to Hong Kong or London to Riyadh, they receive the same exceptional service level and onboard experience, from the linens and lighting to the wine list. We operate as one global brand, which allows us to ensure that every flight on our fleet delivers the same precision regardless of geography.

3. Your background is rooted in finance, but VistaJet operates at the intersection of technology and design. How have these elements influenced your approach to leadership today?

My background in finance gave me the foundation to build a sustainable business from day one—understanding how to scale, manage risk, and create long-term value. I quickly realized the importance of embracing technology and innovation to stay ahead in a constantly evolving industry. 

I’ve always had an appreciation for design, not just aesthetics, but how every detail impacts the customer experience. At VistaJet, these elements come together: we lead with financial discipline, a passion for innovation, and a sharp focus on delivering exceptional quality and user experience.

4. From Michelin-starred dining in the sky to bespoke travel experiences on the ground—VistaJet seems to go beyond aviation. How do you see the brand as a lifestyle ecosystem, not just a service?

For our Members, flying is rarely just about the flight, it’s part of a broader agenda. They move across continents for business, culture, family, and experiences. VistaJet has always been about more than getting from A to B. 

It’s about consistency, access, and the assurance that every part of the journey meets the same high standard. Our clients move fast and think globally. We’ve built an ecosystem that supports that, connecting them not just to places, but to the experiences and opportunities that matter most.

5. What role does innovation play in the future of private aviation? Are there any cutting-edge technologies or sustainability efforts that excite you most right now?

Innovation starts with how we operate. We’ve invested heavily in technology that optimizes every part of the business—from fleet management and flight planning to predictive maintenance and crew logistics.  

The goal is simple: reduce inefficiencies. That level of precision has a direct impact, not just on performance, but on how sustainably we fly.  Fewer repositioning flights, smarter routing, and better resource planning all translate to lower fuel burn. It’s a practical, long-term approach. We’re focused on building a platform that performs better every day.

6. You’ve been known to say that “time is the ultimate luxury.” How do you personally define modern luxury in a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and hyperconnected?

For me, modern luxury is about control over your time—being able to decide how you spend it, where and with whom. In a world where everything is always on, the ability to disconnect, move efficiently, and stay focused is what matters most.

We don’t just save our clients’ time—we give them the conditions to use it well. That could mean turning a transatlantic flight into productive work time or creating the space to rest before a critical meeting. It’s about making every minute count.

7. VistaJet clients are some of the most discerning travelers in the world. What does it take to consistently exceed their expectations?

It starts with understanding that clients don’t want surprises—they want precision. Many fly multiple times a week. So for us, exceeding expectations means removing friction, being consistent, and anticipating their needs before they ask.

Every touchpoint—from how the aircraft is configured to how a request is handled—has to reflect a clear standard. That’s why we’ve standardized the fleet, invested in training, and built a service culture around consistency. At this level, luxury isn’t about opulence. It’s about getting it exactly right, every time.

8. You’ve partnered with global events like Art Basel and the Formula 1 circuit. How do cultural experiences and art influence your personal and professional world?

Our clients are passionate people. They’re deeply involved in culture, art, sport—and they expect the brands they engage with to understand that world. We’ve partnered with events like Art Basel and Formula 1 because these are the environments our Members value and participate in.

On a personal level, motorsport has played a significant role in my life. It demands discipline, total focus, and the ability to make clear, high-impact decisions under pressure. That level of mental clarity is essential when you’re leading a global business. Racing teaches you to eliminate distraction, stay sharp, and execute with precision. It’s the same mindset I bring to running Vista.

9. As an entrepreneur and investor, what’s one philosophy or principle you’ve held onto since the beginning of your career?

Only build something you would use yourself. I founded VistaJet because there was no consistent, global subscription model at the time.

I believe that being deeply involved in what you create, staying customer-obsessed, and never compromising on the core vision are essential. When you build for yourself, you stay close to the product, close to the customer, and focused on long-term value, not short-term gains.

10. Looking ahead, what’s next for VistaJet—and for you personally—as you continue shaping the future of global private travel?

The future for VistaJet is about continuing to push boundaries and making the world smaller through a smarter, more transparent model for private aviation. Our goal is to lead, not just in global reach, but in innovation and service. 

This means forging new partnerships with like-minded brands, developing smarter digital platforms, and delivering deeper personalization. We’ll continue to strengthen our presence in the U.S., a key market, while expanding regionally across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Connecting our Members quickly and reliably, wherever they need to be.

For me personally, I will continue bringing an entrepreneurial mindset and empowering our team to reshape global business aviation, making it more accessible and defining its future in the years ahead.