A husband-and-wife team is launching a new private aircraft experience from Manchester Airport that will fly passengers on whirlwind luxury one-day trips. The business, named The SIX, will allow travellers to book seats on a private plane rather than charter an entire aircraft, with transfers, flights and dining all included.
First Trip to Champagne in 2027
The first trip, departing in 2027, will head to the Champagne region in France. It will include a visit to a Champagne house, a guided tour and cellar tastings, along with lunch, before returning to Manchester the same evening. Guests can book in twos, fours or sixes, with the option for all six seats to be taken by a private group.
The venture is the brainchild of Duncan Falconer, whose career spans hospitality and aviation. He started at The Chester Grosvenor Hotel at age 14, later ran his own gastro pub business in Cheshire, and then became a commercial airline pilot. His wife Millie, who previously worked for the Flight Centre, will handle the day-to-day running of The SIX, while Duncan focuses on strategy, development and aviation.
Making Private Jet Travel Accessible
Duncan said the idea came from speaking to someone shocked by the cost of private jet travel. "Private jets are really only accessible to the uber-wealthy and if you're in that league then it really doesn't matter where you're based as you can fly from anywhere," he explained. "But our target market is different, we want to appeal to aspirational travellers, those who may be looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Yes it's not cheap, yet it will be within reach."
Tickets for the Champagne experience cost £3,495 per person. Duncan said the trip is about offering an experience: "We're going to offer them an experience first and foremost and it's going to be something they will talk about for years to come."
Why Manchester Airport Was Chosen
Manchester Airport was selected because, as the largest airport in the North, it does not offer similar aviation products. "Compared to the South there's really limited options when it comes to luxury travel," Duncan said, noting that London has options like British Airways business class to Europe, while the North is dominated by low-cost airlines.
The SIX is backed by investor Jason Blight, whom Duncan met while both worked at The Chester Grosvenor Hotel. The business is currently gauging interest in its first trip, with future plans including a second trip to the Isle of Islay featuring golf and whisky, and a potential Valentine's trip to Paris.
What Guests Can Expect
Some trips will use a PC12 aircraft carrying six passengers, while others may use larger jets with up to eight guests. Flights will operate from Signature, the airport's private aircraft terminal. Duncan said the experience begins before boarding, with parking close to the departures lounge and no traditional airport stress. "Guests will be amazed at how quickly they will be somewhere," he said.
Future passengers can register interest via the brand's website, joining a waiting list for priority access to the first 2027 departures ahead of general release.
