INSIGHT
How TMCs cater to VIP business travel
There’s more to executive and VIP travel services than merely booking the upfront seat on a flight and arranging a private airport pick-up. Today’s VIP travellers are increasingly time conscious. They value comfort, and expect bespoke service, from a well-versed expert team, in the air and on the ground.
Companies managing the needs of this elite group require an in-depth understanding of premium travel service and logistics, to help maximise traveller productivity, and minimise wasted time. A premium travel experience starts with a travel management company (TMC) that is dedicated to delivering first-class service, no matter where their client is heading.
Tailoring every journey
Precision travel management is crucial for business VIPs and C-suite executive management, who are focused on squeezing the most out of every minute of their working day. It requires an optimised travel itinerary from a one-on-one dedicated travel manager, who can prioritise their clients often tightly packed journey and cater to every detail.
- Maximise airline rewards with loyalty program management and booking inclusions.
- Book the best seats in premium cabins for fast exits and prioritise aircrafts with reliable inflight Wi-Fi.
- Cater to personal preferences—seating, in-flight meals and amenities to room types.
- Organise private transfers, nanny services, private chefs, interpreters, and bookings at exclusive restaurants.
- Ask the tough questions—room upgrades, private concierge service, lounge access, extra amenities, and early check-in/late check-out.
- Harness the power of tech, for personalised communication, synced up schedules, flight tracking, and travel program solutions on the go.
"VIP business travel is not just about getting people from A to B. It’s about building connections through every step of the journey. We try hard to understand our VIP client's world and anticipate their needs, and that’s where our service truly shines. Providing seamless, bespoke business travel that feels effortless for the traveller, no matter how complex it truly is."
– Jo Cuthbertson, FCM VIP Travel Concierge Team Manager
Keeping it secure and discreet
VIP business travellers are often keen to keep their movements under wraps to avoid media scrutiny, guard their privacy, and maintain personal security. This is where a professional TMC can help.
- Arrange airport meet & greet services, fast track immigration, private transfers, and even charter flights or helicopters.
- Book secure, private luxury accommodation—tucked away from the spotlight.
- Act as a confidential go-between, protecting the privacy and identity of VIP guests.
- Triple-check suppliers with thorough partner vetting for personal safety and data security.
- Prioritise data protection with advanced cybersecurity that prevents personal and financial breaches.
- Have a dedicated data protection team and smart tech systems that stay ahead of data regulations.
Smart tech and 24/7 support by your side
From a global IT disruption to a severe weather event, travel can be at the mercy of an array of unpredictable forces. With a dedicated TMC, elite traveller protection includes monitoring global events that could disrupt travel plans.
- 24/7 support, real-time updates, and consistent monitoring of every trip.
- Handle last-minute cancellations, delays, or security issues with quick, agile solutions.
- Leverage strong supplier relationships and in-house after-hours help to manage last-minute changes and keep VIPs moving.
Global industries need a global solution
Offering a global service when it comes to VIP service might seem like a given, however not all TMCs are the same. Some simply tap into a network of global partners, while others such as FCM have more than 500 offices, spanning 95 countries throughout Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Americas.
To deliver superior high-touch VIP corporate travel, a genuine global presence can offer the reassurance of on the ground local support. With this type of worldwide coverage at their fingertips, a TMC can deliver a consistent service no matter where busy executives are headed.