A new private aviation program aimed at Florida-based businesses is launching as companies continue to look for faster, more predictable ways to move executives and teams across the state.

Fort Lauderdale-based Makers Air, formerly known as Watermakers Air, launched Ascend for Business on Feb. 1. The corporate-first, contract-based private aviation program is designed for companies that travel frequently within the Sunshine State and is positioned as an alternative to commercial flights and ad-hoc charter travel for recurring business trips.

The company said the program is structured around predictable schedules and time savings for executives and teams traveling for leadership meetings, site visits and client engagements. 

“Regional business travel should be an asset, not a liability,” said Jessica Cohen, the organization’s chief financial officer. “Ascend for Business gives companies a disciplined way to invest in time and productivity.”

She added that the program is intended to reduce hours often lost to driving, TSA screening and commercial flight schedules by offering more predictable, point-to-point travel for frequent intrastate business trips.

Originally founded in 1981 by businessman Joe Hocher before it rebranded in 2018, Makers Air has primarily arranged charter flights to destinations such as the Bahamas and operates out of several Florida airports, including Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. The company partners with fixed-base operators at these fields to provide handling services for private and charter clients.

In addition to flight services, Ascend for Business coordinates ground transportation in advance, including car service and valet options designed to reduce delays at both ends of a trip, according to the company.

The launch comes as business travel continues to rebound globally post-pandemic. Grand View Research estimates the global business travel market was valued at $1.37 trillion in 2023 and projects it will reach $2.75 trillion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 9.1% from 2024 to 2030. 

“The revival of business travel carries substantial economic implications, impacting industries like hospitality, transportation, and events,” the San Francisco-based market research firm said. “The uptick in travel leads to greater demand for hotels, airlines, and venues, thereby stimulating economic growth within these sectors.”