What Is It Like to Fly “Semi-Private” Aero from Los Angeles to Aspen?

Aero brings a fresh take to air travel by merging the exclusivity of private aviation with the accessibility and cost efficiency of first-class commercial fares. This Californian carrier redefines luxury with its “semi-private jet service,” offering travelers private terminal access, flexible arrival times, and a high-end, tailored experience.

From booking through Aero’s user-friendly website to enjoying dedicated lounges and a 24/7 concierge service, every detail is meticulously designed to ensure an effortless journey that blends private travel perks with commercial convenience.

Photo: Courtesy of Aero

My journey from Van Nuys to Aspen exemplified Aero’s seamless service. The experience kicked off immediately after booking when a concierge reached out to discuss my food and drink preferences and recommended arriving at the private terminal just 20 minutes before departure.

Opting for an earlier arrival, I was welcomed into a sophisticated lounge with complimentary parking, plush seating, and a luxurious spread of pastries, yogurt, juices, wines, and Veuve Clicquot Champagne—all at 8 a.m.

Photo: Courtesy of Matteo Legnani

Espresso lovers were treated to a top-tier coffee machine, perfect for crafting their favorite beverages.

Boarding

Fifteen minutes before departure, a well-dressed Aero host, clad in a stylish black suit, announced it was time to board. She escorted passengers to one of Aero’s sleek Embraer ERJ-135 aircraft, parked just steps away from the lounge.

Photo: Courtesy of Aero / Philip Cheung

The captain and first officer greeted us warmly beside the plane, and two cabin attendants guided us to our seats.

Aero’s 1-1 cabin configuration ensures that every passenger has both window views and aisle access.

Photo: Courtesy of Aero

Inside, the cabin exudes sophistication, featuring hand-stitched Italian leather seats, dynamic mood lighting, suede walls, a flat floor, and the notable absence of overhead bins—creating an airy, spacious feel.

The Seat

Aero’s custom-designed seats are a highlight. Crafted from hand-stitched Italian leather, each 20-inch-wide seat reclines up to 145 degrees and offers 43 inches of legroom between rows—comparable to premium long-haul business class.

Photo: Courtesy of Matteo Legnani

While there is no built-in entertainment system, Aero more than makes up for it with blazing-fast Wi-Fi powered by Starlink. It was the most reliable in-flight internet I’ve encountered, allowing me to browse demanding websites like Flightradar24 and even enjoy a seamless video call with my wife back in Milan—6,000 miles away.

The Flight

Once comfortably seated, the captain informed us of our expected two-hour flight time. Takeoff was smooth, heading south before a graceful left bank toward the Rocky Mountains.

Photo: Courtesy of Aero

En route, we were treated to breathtaking views of the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas, and Canyonlands National Park. Our descent into Aspen was stunning and challenging, navigating the peaks surrounding Pitkin County Airport, perched nearly 8,000 feet above sea level.

On clear days, the approach offers incredible views, though shifting winds and low visibility often make it a tricky landing spot, especially during winter.

Photo: Courtesy of Matteo Legnani

Aero partners with LA’s famed Erewhon grocer and café to craft its onboard menu, divided into three offerings: ‘Daybreak,’ ‘Afternoon,’ and ‘All Day.’

As it was mid-morning, I chose the ‘Daybreak’ option—an avocado tartine served in an attractive Erewhon-branded box, accompanied by fresh berries and a slice of banana bread.

Photo: Courtesy of Matteo Legnani

Before serving, the cabin attendant distributed hot towels and set my dining table with a crisp white linen cloth. The meal arrived with sparkling cutlery and another flute of champagne.

The tartine was delightfully fresh, the banana bread moist and flavorful. Afterward, I was presented with a basket of assorted snacks, a thoughtful touch.

Verdict

Aero offers a unique blend of exclusivity reminiscent of private jet travel, combined with the premium amenities of business and first-class cabins on major airlines.

Photo: Courtesy of Aero

It’s a compelling choice for business travelers and those looking to begin a holiday or weekend getaway in style and comfort. Aero redefines luxury travel with a seamless, sophisticated experience that is truly one of a kind.