As the Burning Man festival kicks off, affluent attendees have been spotted arriving at the Black Rock Desert in private and chartered planes. The festival, known for its transient community, has set up a temporary airport to accommodate these high-flying guests, despite a decline in ticket sales and weather concerns from last year’s flooding.
Key Takeaways
- Burning Man festival sees affluent attendees arriving in private jets.
- A temporary airport in Black Rock City handles around 500 takeoffs and landings daily.
- The festival maintains a no-trace policy, dismantling all structures post-event.
- Professional air traffic controllers are hired to ensure safety.
- Scenic flights are offered for free to participants as part of the festival’s barter economy.
Arrival in Style
Despite a reported decline in anticipated guests, hundreds of private and chartered planes have descended on the Nevada desert for the annual counterculture event. The temporary airport, named 88NV, is a crucial part of the festival’s infrastructure, handling around 500 takeoffs and landings daily. This makeshift airport is meticulously maintained, with the airfield being rolled and watered every night to ensure safety and reduce dust.
Professional Oversight
While volunteers play a significant role in the festival’s operations, the Burning Man Project has hired a team of five professional air traffic controllers to manage the bustling airspace. These controllers come with impressive credentials, including experience at events like AirVenture Oshkosh. The spokesperson for the Burning Man Project emphasized that these professionals are among the best in the world.
Scenic Flights and Barter Economy
In addition to routine landings and takeoffs, the Burning Man airport offers scenic flights for free to participants. This is in line with the festival’s barter-based economy, where goods and services are exchanged without money. The airport, like the rest of Black Rock City, is dismantled after the event, leaving no trace of its existence.
Cost of Convenience
For those who prefer not to charter their own flights, Burner Express Air offers flights from major cities to Black Rock City. However, these flights come at a premium. A one-way ticket from Reno costs $776.31, while a round-trip ticket goes for $1,500. Charter plane companies are quoting $10,000 to $20,000 for 15-seat planes from Reno to Black Rock City.
Conclusion
Despite its ephemeral nature, the Burning Man festival continues to attract affluent attendees who arrive in style. The temporary airport in Black Rock City is a testament to the festival’s ability to create a fully functional, albeit temporary, community in the middle of the desert. With professional oversight and a commitment to leaving no trace, Burning Man remains a unique and captivating event.