Why ride a supercar when you could fly a luxurious helicopter?

Wondering what it’s like to fly in style? Imagine a helicopter that takes off from Opa-Locka executive airport in Miami for a luxurious trip across the Everglades. It’s a Sikorsky S-76 with beluga leather seats and this chopper soars 2,000 feet above Florida's tropical wetlands with the same grace as its inspiration, the limited-production Bentley Bacalar.

We’re talking about Flexjet, a Cleveland-based private jet company, enhancing its aviation experience by combining its long-range G650 with the six-seater helicopter for convenient last-mile trips between remote terminals and city centers.

Did you know that the Bacalar Project, consisting of Flexjet's S-76 helicopter and unique Bentley-inspired Gulfstream G650 jet, draws inspiration from the super luxurious Bentley Bacalar convertible car? This was made by the revitalized Mulliner coach-builder. So, the Sikorsky helicopter, part of Flexjet's new helicopter division, will visit seasonal bases in the Northeast and Florida to ensure smooth travel on challenging routes, such as the 30-minute journey from Miami to Naples for lunch.

Flexjet CEO Michael Silvestro states that Bentley shares the brand’s philosophy, with a great focus on details. What’s more, Red Label ensures a consistent experience with the dedicated crew for each jet, along with exclusive interiors. But this helicopter is even more exclusive, as only one jet receives the Bentley treatment. The aircraft, with satin bronze fixtures, copper-plated logos, and unique veneer mimicking the 5,000-year-old river-wood trim of the car, provide the closest experience to flying in a Bentley. The Sikorsky and Gulfstream feature a silver-green chameleon finish, instead of Flexjet's red-and-gold scheme, to honor the Julep color of Ricci's custom-made Bacalar.

Ricci collaborated with Mulliner's design team to create an exceptional onboard experience that sets this jet apart in a crowded market. And that’s not all. Because the brand hired the chef from Villa d'Este to offer a customized food and beverage service on board. So, that’s another way Flexjet caters to its wealthiest clients with personalized attention.

Not excited about the luxury jet? Soon, you’ll be able to fly in an airship. Airships, symbols of visionary innovation like Leonardo da Vinci and Jules Verne, are undergoing a revival. Though they can't match jets for long-distance travel, airships have low operating costs, minimal infrastructure needs, and lower carbon emissions, making them ideal for regional travel.

Governments and environmental groups are increasingly seeking to limit commercial air travel, making airships a smart investment for Spanish carrier Air Nostrum, which recently ordered 10 Airlander airships.

The Airlander 10, set to be commercially certified and flown in 2026, can hold around 130 passengers and cruise at speeds of 50 to 70 knots, powered by helium for buoyancy and four kerosene engines for propulsion. It will burn 90% less fuel than comparable aircraft, and also cater to luxury travelers with a few suites and the ability to stay aloft for five days.

Moreover, OceanSky Cruises, a Swedish company, is partnering with experiential travel and yachting firm Pelorus for a 36-hour North Pole trip. Passengers will travel from Svalbard, Norway to the North Pole in exclusive cabins, complete with haute cuisine and scenic views through glass flooring and windows. The journey will cost around $200,000, similar to the premium pricing of early space flights on Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin. The company believes airship travel will command a premium before becoming more accessible, as the high-end leads the way.