Macau’s concessionaires have resumed the use of private jets for small groups of premium international customers, according to a report by Chinese-language Macau newspaper Macao Daily.
The media outlet this week quoted local airline companies who stated that since February a number of concessionaires have been bringing foreign tourists to Macau via private jets, with one charter flight carrying about a dozen passengers.
The resumption of such flights comes after Macau dropped most border restrictions from 8 January 2023, sparking an influx of visitor arrivals in the weeks and months since. The collapse of Macau’s junket industry has also seen operators turn their focus towards the Direct VIP and premium mass segments.
In December, the Macau government confirmed a new administrative regulation that sets out the rules for a potential reduction in the tax rate charged on gross gaming revenues (GGR) generated by foreign players.
However, the tax break only applies to GGR generated within designated foreigner-only gaming zones to be established within individual properties.
According to comments made to Macao Daily by TAG Aviation Asia (Macau) Ltd, “The structure of Macau’s gaming industry is different after the epidemic, and concessionaires are more proactive in expanding their customer base.
“In February, a number of concessionaires took foreign tourists to Macau via private jets, with more than 10 people on one flight. Some concessionaires also took the initiative to inquire about chartered flight services and are expected to finalize flight details in April.”
The article also mentions the recovery of private jet travel, mentioning that business jet volumes may be restored this year to 50% or more of the full year 2019 level.
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