Surf’s up?
The Sheet received a tip this week that California-based, members-only airline Surf Air is looking at Mammoth Lakes as one of several potential destinations as it expands its flight offerings.
According to the LA Times, Surf Air has grown to 1,400 members since its first flight two years ago, with a member waiting list that now numbers 600.
Initially, Surf Air targeted businesspeople traveling between Southern California and Silicon Valley, but according to the company’s website, intends to expand to Santa Rosa, Monterey, Sacramento, and Palm Springs by October of this year. Surf Air will offer up to 90 daily flights by the end of 2015.
Unlimited flights start at $1,750 per month with a $1,000 initiation fee. Members can book flights using their smartphones, arrive 15 minutes before departure, and enjoy “well-appointed, private air terminals with complimentary parking and free Wi-Fi,” according to the Surf Air website.
The website also states that the company is “Now accepting membership applications for Santa Ana, San Diego, San Jose, San Luis Obispo, Mammoth Lakes, and Bakersfield. Apply now to guarantee membership priority at the best available rate.”
The website adds that Surf Air may expand to additional regions including Texas, Florida, and the Northeast.
However, when contacted by The Sheet, Surf Air declined to comment on whether flights would be coming to Mammoth Lakes—or Bishop.
“Surf Air continues to explore a wide array of potential markets to add to its services in California,” said Surf Air CEO Jeff Potter. “As a potential market, Mammoth includes many of the service and demographic factors we seek, but it’s too early to commit to service commencement at this time. We look forward to ongoing discussions with many potential markets that we believe can add to the enhanced value proposition for prospective members as well as our loyal existing members.”
Surf Air, which according to Forbes had revenue of $8.9 million as of January 2015, was 27 out of 100 on Forbes’ list of “America’s Most Promising Companies” of 2015.
According to the LA Times, about a third of Surf Air passengers work in the tech sector, while “others include lawyers, consultants, real estate agents, sales and advertising reps, entertainment types and retirees … The average customer is 44 and has an annual income of $411,000. About half own at least two homes.”
