Travel start-up Surf Air built its reputation among frequent flyers by offering unlimited flights to members — a model often compared to “Netflix for air travel.” This October the company will extend its services to Europe, initially serving routes to London, Zurich, Geneva, Paris, Cannes, Dublin and Ibiza, with additional destinations planned for the future.
Based in California, Surf Air currently operates 90 daily flights to 12 destinations within the state, including Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Francisco and Napa. The service is membership-based: passengers must join to book flights. Membership fares include checked baggage and most associated fees, and flights depart from private terminals, allowing members to arrive roughly 15 minutes before departure. Surf Air says this setup saves members at least two hours compared with traditional commercial travel, a benefit that appeals to time-conscious travelers.
Although likened to Netflix, Surf Air’s monthly membership is considerably more expensive than a streaming subscription. Individual plans start at $1,950 per month. The company operates a distinctive fleet of twin-engine executive aircraft finished with custom interiors and leather seating, providing a private, comfortable experience aimed at business travelers and frequent flyers. Surf Air has been in operation since 2011 and positions itself as an alternative for those prioritizing convenience, flexibility and time savings over the lower fares and longer waits of conventional airlines.