Private jet flights increasing at Palma. | M. Joy

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The number of private jets and air taxis using Palma airport is higher than ever. Between January and June, there was a 15% increase in flights and a 21% rise in passenger numbers. In June alone, flights were up by over 17% and passengers by almost 27%. The growth is partly being attributed to demand for luxury residential tourism from the UK, France, Germany and Switzerland. The two service operators, Gestair and Mallorcair, are pointing to more growth this month and in August and September.

In addition to residential tourism, the increased number of private jets and air taxis is boosting occupancy levels in five-star hotels and is proving beneficial to companies offering hire cars with chauffeurs and to Mallorca's leading restaurants, including those in the Michelin Guide.

The airports authority Aena points to a particular growth trend for air taxis, a mode of travel favoured by senior management at leading companies because of its flexibility and efficiency. Over the past three years, demand for air taxis has resulted in a significant increase in the number of flights.

The demand is both domestic and foreign. Over weekends in June, there were more than 200 private jet and air taxi flights per day.