As one of the leading providers of global sports charters for the last 20 years, Smart’s charter team arranges a substantial amount of complex flights for teams, fan groups and VIPs to leading sporting fixtures around the world. With unrivalled industry partnerships placing the world’s private jet fleet at our disposal, we are also the sport industry’s preferred private jet charter specialists, frequently flying sport stars and enthusiasts in smaller aircraft, offering a more bespoke, exclusive experience.
Golf trips are always our top private jet sports charter during the summer months, with Scotland consistently being the most popular choice for our clients. Each year, we are involved in some of the world’s most iconic golfing tournaments, and we’re excited for The 153rd Open which will be played at Royal Portrush Golf Club from Sunday 13th to Sunday 20th July 2025. A record-breaking 278,000 fans are expected to attend, the second largest in the event’s history, and it will be the largest ever sporting event held in Northern Ireland.
Smart has already secured a number of private jet bookings to fly VIP clients to The Open and our expert team is ready to assist with all aircraft charter enquiries.
The City of Derry Airport is the closest to Portrush, 27 miles away. From here, visitors can take a short 15-minute scheduled helicopter charter to the official landing site at Portrush. Alternatively, Smart can arrange a VIP transfer from City of Derry Airport to Portrush via luxury vehicle.
Belfast International Airport is another option, 46 miles away, and Belfast City Airport is 62 miles away. Dublin Airport is the furthest away, some 158 miles, for those who fancy a longer drive through the stunning Irish and Northern Irish countryside. All of these airports welcome charter flights and we have a number of options already on hold for our clients still firming up their travel plans.
“This tournament is going to be huge – the second largest number of attendees in the history of The Open, topped only by the 290,000 fans that flocked to St Andrew’s in 2022. We are already seeing a lot of interest in private jet charters to The Open, as guests have now secured their tickets or invitations to corporate events. We have a number of private jet bookings confirmed and also some larger incentive charters. We’re really excited for the competition this year and know Royal Portrush Golf Club will be a spectacular host”.
James Gregory, Head of VIP Charter at Smart Aviation
For private jet charter enquiries for The Open in 2025, please call +441293 551244 or email sales@smart-aviation.co.uk
About Smart:
Smart Aviation was founded in 2005 by Managing Director Mark Hawkins, an established sports charter specialist with over 30 years’ experience in senior operational roles within the travel and aviation industry. Over the last 19 years, Smart Aviation has arranged successful charters for leading sport fixtures, transported thousands of passengers on their annual pilgrimages to Lourdes, and flown VIPS on exclusive private jet charters on a weekly basis around the world.
