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Today's Hitchhikers Fly by Cushy Private Jet

High society fliers take rides with friendly billionaires

By Erin Mendell,  Newser User

Posted Jul 12, 2008 3:03 PM CDT
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(Newser) – Today’s brand of hitchhiker isn't on a street corner thumbing rides, but at airports that serve cushy private planes, the New York Times reports. Seeking the prestige and elation of flying in a $40 million jet, these riders reserve seats with friendly billionaires. “There are a lot of people in the social world who don’t have the equipment to fly privately on their own,” says one New York high society author.

But don’t call these riders mooches: It's just that “you’re going somewhere and someone happens to have a plane," one socialite says. The free flight does with rules, a designer notes: Be on time, ask the crew where to sit, and stay in the back. And the best thank-you gift is decent in-flight food. One flier brought "100 buffalo wings," he said. "They appreciate things like that.”

Aboard his private jet, Lou Pearlman chats with Ben Bledsoe.
Aboard his private jet, Lou Pearlman chats with Ben Bledsoe.   (KRT Photos)
Dallas Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones has artwork featuring the history of the team, such as this painting of Michael Irvin, on his private jet. He is shown in February 2005 in Dallas, Texas.
Dallas Cowboys' owner Jerry Jones has artwork featuring the history of the team, such as this painting of Michael Irvin, on his private jet. He is shown in February 2005 in Dallas, Texas.   (KRT Photos)
Two passengers at work on a private jet.
Two passengers at work on a private jet.   (Shutterstock)
A private jet heads for blue skies.
A private jet heads for blue skies.   (Shutterstock)
The lucky ones board a private plane for their next trip.
The lucky ones board a private plane for their next trip.   (Shutterstock)
A corporate jet flies at twilight.
A corporate jet flies at twilight.   (Shutterstock)
The fancy interior of a private jet.
The fancy interior of a private jet.   (Flickr)
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New York Society
New York Social Diary

We pay high price for private planes of the rich
Hartford Courant (Conn.)

 
money • travel trends • luxury travel • airplane • private jet

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