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In a bold leap for the private aviation industry, Flexjet Inc. has secured a landmark $800 million equity investment from a heavyweight consortium led by L Catterton, the world’s largest consumer-focused private equity firm. Described as the largest equity infusion in the history of private aviation, the deal positions Flexjet to elevate its already bespoke flying experience to stratospheric new heights.

Joining L Catterton in the powerhouse investment group are affiliates of KSL Capital Partners and the J. Safra Group, according to a statement released Monday. Jones Day served as lead legal counsel for Flexjet in the high-profile transaction.

From Terminal to Tailwind: Crafting a Luxurious Journey

Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci highlighted the transformative potential of the partnership:

“L Catterton provides the perfect opportunity for collaborating in areas such as consumer insights, brand strategies, retail expansion, and luxury product delivery.”

Flexjet is reshaping its luxury travel ecosystem with bespoke flight experiences, including larger jets, global routes, and access through private terminals. The vision extends far beyond the cockpit—it’s about exclusivity from start to finish, with curated access to destinations, luxury products, and members-only events.

Building the World’s Most Exclusive Sky Club

The Cleveland-based company is not just growing in airspace—it’s expanding on the ground too. It currently boasts 11 private terminals, either operational or under construction. A marquee terminal in London Farnborough is slated to open in early 2026, serving as a European gateway for high-net-worth flyers.

The company also touts private aviation’s largest in-house maintenance network and its Cabin Attendant Academy, ensuring service excellence remains as polished as the jets themselves.

Investment to Fuel Long-Term Vision—But Control Stays Grounded

This historic investment doesn’t mean a changing of the guard. Flexjet’s existing shareholders will retain control, underscoring the investment’s strategic nature rather than a takeover.

The funding is expected to amplify Flexjet’s mission to revolutionize private jet travel, forging a "unique and differentiated" partnership between company leadership and the investor consortium.

An All-Star Lineup of Advisors

L Catterton was advised by Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP, led by corporate partner Phillip Sanders. Supporting him were corporate partners Steven Shoemate and Quinton Farrar, financing partner Madalyn Miller, and tax partner James Jennings.

Details regarding the legal teams for Flexjet and other consortium members were not immediately disclosed.