TAKEOFF TO THE PLAYOFF: A PRIVATE JET-FRIENDLY COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON FINALE
October 31, 2024
As autumn drapes its golden hues across the landscape, college football Saturdays become spectacles that awaken a symphony of excitement and nostalgia. The crunch of freshly fallen leaves, the smell of the crisp autumn air, beers and bratwurst perfectly mingle with the distant echo of cheering crowds.
In essence, traveling to college football stadiums transcends the game itself. It is about the journey, the shared moments and memories created with friends, fellow alumni or fans.
Although college football itself represents a storied tradition within the United States, it is slated to take on a much different championship format this year – one that makes private jet travel the clear-cut way to catch every game. Discover how Flexjet hosted a mid-season celebration of all things college football and stands ready to get you from takeoff to touchdown no matter where the season takes your team.
UNDERSTANDING THE NEW-LOOK COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYOFF
The new college football playoff format represents a significant evolution in the landscape of postseason competition, transitioning from a four-team arrangement to a more inclusive 12-team playoff system. This expanded format aims to enhance the overall fairness and excitement of the tournament, allowing for a broader representation of collegiate programs.
Under this structure, the 12 qualifying teams consist of the six highest-ranked conference champions, ensuring teams from various conferences can be acknowledged for their achievements. Additionally, the six at-large bids are awarded to the highest-ranked teams that do not automatically qualify, allowing for the inclusion of formidable programs regardless of conference affiliation.
Aside from the various college campuses still to be determined, there are some common destinations for major bowl games that will host the tournament’s most pivotal games. For those planning on attending any of these games, Flexjet has also recommended the airports that offer a logistically simple fly-in scenario for private jets.
The first round of the playoffs is scheduled to take place on campus sites, thereby enriching the fan experience and intensifying the atmosphere, as home-field advantage can play a significant role in these critical matchups.
Subsequent rounds, including the quarterfinals, semifinals and championship game, will be hosted at neutral sites, ensuring a grand stage for the final confrontations.
• Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl – Atlanta, GA (DeKalb Peachtree Airport, PDK)
• Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic – Arlington, TX (Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, DFW)
• Capital One Orange Bowl – Miami Gardens, FL (Opa Locka Airport, OPK)
• Fiesta Bowl – Glendale, CA (Scottsdale Airport, SCF)
• Rose Bowl – Pasadena, CA (Van Nuys Airport, VNY)
• Allstate Sugar Bowl – New Orleans, LA (New Orleans Lakefront Airport, NEW)
Private jet travel will offer several advantages for fans of the upcoming 2024 college football playoff, enhancing their overall experience and increasing how many games they can attend. Here are some benefits:
THE FLEXJET PRIVATE JET ADVANTAGE
1. Convenience and Flexibility: Fans can choose their departure times and locations, avoiding the long lines and strict schedules of commercial flights. This means they can arrive just in time for games and leave immediately after, maximizing their experience.
2. Direct Access to Game Locations: Private jets can land at smaller airports closer to the event venues, reducing travel time and making it easier to reach the stadiums, especially in cities where traffic can be an issue. There are generally more fly-in options to avoid congested airports in larger cities where the big-name bowl games traditionally occur.
3. Comfort and Amenities: Traveling on a private jet offers a more comfortable experience, with spacious seating, personalized service and the ability to bring more luggage, including tailgating gear or team memorabilia.
4. Efficient Travel for Multiple Games: For fans looking to attend multiple playoff games, private jet travel allows them to easily hop from one location to another, enjoying more events without the hassle of commercial connections or a crowded charter market.
5. Minimal Stress: With fewer hassles and a streamlined travel process, fans can focus on the excitement of the games rather than the logistics of getting there. The playoff picture will continue to evolve weekly, not allowing much planning time. With generous call-out times and the ability to fly directly from your preferred origin, Flexjet simplifies an otherwise hectic tournament.
NO TIMEOUTS FROM TRADITION
Recently, Flexjet hosted an exclusive gameday experience for private jet aircraft Owners at the renowned annual rivalry between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and Navy Midshipmen. In its 97th season, this storied rivalry unfolded on a beautiful fall day at MetLife Stadium – less than five miles from Flexjet’s busiest FBO – Teterboro Airport (TEB). Friends, fans and alumni alike were treated to a VIP tailgate experience just steps from the stadium itself.
The 2024 installment of this game had some notable hype surrounding its rarity – it marked the first time since 1926 both Notre Dame and Navy Midshipmen came into this game as nationally ranked opponents. Navy stacked up as significant opposition to the Fighting Irish, sporting an impressive 6-0 record thus far. The excitement was palpable as fans gathered for the VIP tailgate experience and one of the oldest rivalries renewed just outside the stadium. Under a festive tent adorned in green, navy and gold, supporters eagerly mingled, sharing stories and reveling in the community buzz that college football begets.
Gourmet food stations offered a delicious array of options, from chili to juicy grilled sliders and even nachos, there were plenty of pregame favorites to be had. From the light bites to the beer, inspired cocktails, tailgate games and even a DJ, the comradery that recognized both schools’ vaunted tastes and traditions stood out.
After the pregame parking lot festivities, attendees were led on a short walk into the stadium and awaiting premium club suites led by two authentic South Bend Irish bagpipers. Just before kickoff, guests witnessed a dramatic fly-over from five F-18 Super Hornets that only stoked this historically anticipated showdown.
If you are ready to explore the best service and sophistication private travel offers – regardless of where your team takes you, Flexjet’s private aviation experts can provide you with everything you need to make a truly informed decision. To discover more about our exclusive private terminals, fractional jet ownership and VIP event offerings, visit Flexjet.com.
CLOSE
