Swine Flu Suspected Behind Rise in Private Jet Rental

One of the world’s leading private jet operators, International Air Charter, based in the United Arab Emirates, is reporting a 50% increase in demand over Ramadan for flights in Saudi Arabia. A statement from International Air Charter explained the surge in demand was due to "clients recogniz[ing] the strategic benefits of charter jet services, particularly in terms of convenience and time saving." But with ever more frequent media reports of swine flu (N1H1 virus) related deaths, are clients choosing private jets over commercial flights for financial or health reasons? The Umrah is the part of the annual Hajj pilgrimage performed during Ramadan. While the main Hajj is not until later this year many prefer to perform the trip during Ramadan. So far four Saudi Nationals have died of swine flu and reports of people who have been diagnosed with the virus when returning home after a visit to Saudi are increasing.
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