March Madness, the NCAA's premier basketball tournament, is not just a sports event; it's a cultural phenomenon that grips the USA every spring.
As fans from across the country scramble to follow their teams through the rounds, the logistics of getting from one game to another can become a challenge. This is where the game-changer comes into play: private jet charter. The benefits of flying private for March Madness are as varied as the teams that participate, offering a blend of convenience, luxury, and efficiency unmatched by commercial travel.
Key 2024 dates
- Selection Sunday (March 17) This is when the NCAA selection committee announces all-tournament teams and their seedings.
- First Four (March 19-20): The tournament kicks off with the First Four, where eight of the lowest-seeded teams compete for a spot in the 64-team bracket.
- First & Second Rounds (March 21-22): The field narrows from 64 to 32, then 16 teams.
- Sweet 16 & Elite Eight (March 28 – 31): The regional semifinals and finals determine which teams advance to the Final Four.
- Final Four (April 6): The last teams standing compete in the national semifinals, with the winners moving on to the National Championship game.
- National Championship (April 8): The culmination of the tournament where the final two teams battle for the title. Monday, April 8 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Unmatched Convenience & Timesaving
Private jet charter stands out for its unparalleled convenience. Forget about the hassles of crowded airports, long security lines, and the rigidity of commercial flight schedules. Chartering a private jet means you set the schedule, flying directly to your destination without layovers or unnecessary delays. This is particularly beneficial during March Madness, where games are spread across the country and time is of the essence. Fans can attend a game in one city and fly out immediately after to catch the next game in another, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of the action.
Flexibility Like Never Before
The flexibility offered by private jet charter is unmatched. Not only can fans decide their departure times, but they can also adjust their plans on the fly. If a game runs into overtime or they decide to stay for post-game celebrations, the jet waits on their schedule. This level of flexibility ensures that fans can fully immerse themselves in the March Madness experience without worrying about getting to the airport.
The Height of Comfort & Privacy
Flying private means enjoying the ultimate in comfort and privacy. Spacious cabins, luxurious seating, and a range of personalized amenities make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Fans can discuss game strategies or celebrate victories in the privacy of their cabin, turning travel time into an integral part of the March Madness experience.
Efficiency for Business & Pleasure
For business professionals who are also sports enthusiasts, private jet travel during March Madness is a win-win. It’s possible to conduct meetings or work in a fully equipped, quiet cabin, turning travel time into productive time. This efficiency ensures that the excitement of March Madness doesn’t come at the expense of business obligations.
Health & Safety on Your Terms
In the post-pandemic world, health and safety have taken on new importance. Private jet charter addresses these concerns head-on, offering a controlled environment with minimized exposure to crowds. Customized catering and stringent cleaning protocols further ensure that health and safety are paramount, allowing fans to focus on the games with peace of mind.
Accessibility & Cost-Effectiveness
While perceived as the domain of the ultra-wealthy, private jet charter has become increasingly accessible. With options like jet cards, fractional ownership, and on-demand charter, fans can find cost-effective solutions that fit their needs. Group charters are particularly popular during March Madness, allowing fans to share the cost through group charter while enjoying the benefits of private travel.
The Overall Experience: Elevating March Madness
The essence of chartering a private jet for March Madness lies in the overall experience. It’s not just about watching the games; it’s about creating an unforgettable journey from start to finish. From the moment fans step onto their private jet until they return home, they’re treated to a level of service and luxury that elevates the entire tournament experience.
Customized Tournament Packages
Charter brokers can organize personalized fan packages that combine travel, accommodation, and game tickets for a seamless experience.
- Flight Arrangements: This is the core of the package, covering private jet charter flights to and from the tournament locations. Brokers can arrange flights that fit the client’s schedule, allowing them to attend multiple games or fly in and out on the same day.
- Ground Transportation: To ensure smooth transitions from air to ground, all-inclusive packages often include ground transportation. This can range from limousine services to and from the airport to rental cars waiting at the destination.
- Accommodation: Depending on the package, accommodation at luxury hotels can be arranged for the duration of the stay. Brokers typically have partnerships with premium hotels to provide their clients with comfortable and convenient lodging options.
- Event Tickets: Some brokers go a step further by securing tickets to the games themselves. Given the popularity of March Madness, having guaranteed tickets can be a significant advantage.
- Concierge Services: To enhance the experience, concierge services can be included to handle restaurant reservations, arrange for private tours, or secure access to exclusive events happening in conjunction with the tournament.
- Customized Catering: Onboard catering is tailored to the preferences of the client, ensuring a personalized and luxurious dining experience during flights.
Ready to go?
March Madness is a thrilling time for college basketball fans, offering a blend of high stakes, dramatic finishes, and the joy of competition. The tournament is more than a series of basketball games; it’s an annual ritual that brings fans together in celebration of excellence, determination, and the spirit of competition.
Chartering a private jet for the tournament not only adds a layer of luxury and convenience to the experience but also transforms the journey into an integral part of the event. Whether it’s the time saved, the flexibility offered, the unparalleled comfort, or the sheer joy of flying private, the benefits are clear. As we embrace the madness this March, private jet charter emerges as the ultimate way to elevate the experience, proving that sometimes, the journey is just as thrilling as the destination.
Next steps
If you’re thinking of a private jet charter for any stage of the tournament, get in touch with our expert team who can walk and talk you through every step of the process from determining group size, the right aircraft selection, and booking lead times. We can even create a package that encompasses, transfers, in-flight entertainment, and any special requests you may have. Our 50 years of heritage in the sector means we have all the necessary experience to provide you with the very best selection of options. You can reach our specialist team on [email protected]
Full Tournament Schedule & Venues
Selection Sunday: March 17
First Four: March 19-20
UD Arena, Dayton
First round (round of 64): March 21
Spectrum Center, Charlotte
CHI Health Center, Omaha
PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh
Vivint Smart Home Arena, Salt Lake City
First round (round of 64): March 22
Barclays Center, Brooklyn
Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
FedExForum, Memphis
Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena, Spokane
Second round (round of 32): March 23
Spectrum Center, Charlotte
CHI Health Center, Omaha
PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh
Vivint Smart Home Arena, Salt Lake City
Second round (round of 32): March 24
Barclays Center, Brooklyn
Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indianapolis
FedExForum, Memphis
Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena, Spokane
Sweet 16 (regional semifinals): March 28
TD Garden, Boston
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
Sweet 16 (regional semifinals): March 29
American Airlines Center, Dallas
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Elite Eight (regional finals): March 30
TD Garden, Boston
Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
Elite Eight (regional finals): March 31
American Airlines Center, Dallas
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit
Final Four (national semifinals & national championship): April 6, 8
State Farm Stadium, Glendale