What do you know about Flying Private and the Derby? No, we’re not talking about Flying Private, the horse that finished 19th in the 2009 derby—we’re talking about the biggest horse racing event of the year, and there’s no better way to arrive than by private jet. However, flying into the region can be difficult due to increased traffic around the event known as “the most exciting two minutes in sports.” Here’s what you need to know if you’re flying private to the 2023 Kentucky Derby.
DERBY 2023 PRIVATE JET TRAVEL: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW
WHEN IS THE 2023 KENTUCKY DERBY?
This year’s Derby will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at the famed Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky, but the week before the main race is also packed with events, beginning with Opening Night at Churchill Downs on the evening of Saturday, April 29. Champions Day will be held Wednesday, May 3, and “Thurby,” a “showcase of all things Kentucky” with bourbon, bluegrass, and horse racing, on Thursday, May 4. The Kentucky Oaks, America’s premier race for fillies (female horses) is held on Friday, May 5. Gates open at 9 a.m. on Derby Day.
Tickets, premium seating & concierge information, and more are available on kentuckyderby.com. For more information about visiting Churchill Downs, including what to wear, ticketing info, parking, track access, and more, visit the Kentucky Derby’s Visitor Information page.
WHAT ARE THE BEST AIRPORTS FOR FLYING PRIVATE TO THE DERBY?
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (KSDF) in Louisville, KY
FBO: Atlantic Aviation
Driving distance from Churchill Downs: 10 minutes
Due to the increase in air traffic volume around the Kentucky Derby, Atlantic Aviation says reservations are strongly encouraged for any flights between May 5-8. Guests should know that increased traffic as well as airport construction have resulted in limited parking at the FBO.
Bowman Field Airport (KLOU) in Louisville, KY
FBO: Louisville Executive Aviation
Driving distance from Churchill Downs: 22 minutes
Louisville Executive Aviation says guests can expect short taxi times, an all-day cookout on Oaks and Derby Day, and a complimentary shuttle to and from Churchill Downs.
Clark Regional Airport (KJVY) in Sellersburg, IN
FBO: Honaker Aviation, ASI Aviation
Driving distance from Churchill Downs: 23 minutes
Clark Regional Airport is located just seven miles north of Louisville, across the Ohio River in Indiana.
READY TO BOOK YOUR PRIVATE JET FLIGHT TO THE DERBY?
Magellan’s private aviation professionals will make your trip to the oldest continuously running sporting event in the United States a safe, seamless, and enjoyable one. Use the tool below to get an instant private charter quote to the Kentucky Derby, explore our Private Jet Membership or Jet Card Ownership options, or call 877-550-5387 to speak with a private aviation consultant about arranging your Derby flight!
