Private aviation is a special service area in which anyone can rent a private aircraft or helicopter to organize a flight on an individual route. Using your own air transport or renting an aircraft for an individual flight is not only about prestige and status. In our time, when activity, efficiency, and dynamism are integral components of success, it is also convenient, comfortable, and time-saving.
There are wide varieties of aircraft – from representatives of ultralight aviation to business class liners and super heavy aircraft. However, given the large number of private jet types available, choosing the right one can initially seem daunting.
What Are the Different Categories of Private Jets?
Determining which private jet is suitable for your needs, has all the features you need, and is within your budget is essential. Different aircraft work best in different scenarios. Some private aircraft have showers. Others have cabins. Some, in very rare cases, do not have a toilet.
Everyone wants to rent a private aircraft that best suits their current needs. You can completely trust the airline consultants, but it is better to understand the types of private jets yourself. Here is everything you need to know about each type of private jet, especially if you plan to buy a private jet. From small single-motor injectors to large ones that can almost break the sound barrier, here is a detailed guide.
1. Very Light Jets
Vessels belonging to very light jets are a relatively new direction of private aviation, offered as an alternative to turboprop and piston aircraft. This is convenient for short (within 5 hours) budget flights.
Such private aircraft have a short runway and are inexpensive to operate. They are used for personal purposes and as air taxis for flights from one point to another. The high-class cabin of this type of private aircraft can accommodate 4-6 passengers. Everything you need for a business trip or a short weekend getaway with light luggage is on board.
A very light jet is a great way to start your personal jet journey. These private aircraft are comfortable and very safe. These private jets are ideal for clients who travel in small groups, travel short distances, strive to keep costs to a minimum, and travel to and from smaller airports.
Typical representatives of very light jets:
- the Embraer Phenom 100
- Raytheon Hawker 400 XP
- Cessna Citation Mustang
Photo credit: monarchairgroup.com
2. Light Jets
Super light jets are relatively new to the private aviation world. They are often known for providing many cost advantages that light aircraft bring while providing slightly more performance and comfort in the private jet charter market.
Super light jets have more cabin and luggage space than light jets and smaller aircraft variants, such as very light aircraft and turboprops. In addition, they can fly up to 4 hours without stopping to refuel, making them a favorite charter flight.
Chartering a super light jet, you can go on vacation with the whole family or take a small delegation to the meeting, as the private aircraft can accommodate up to 9 passengers. Despite the fact that movement inside the cabin is limited, many private jet models are equipped with a bathroom and tables.
The most popular super light jets include:
- Gulfstream G100
- Embraer Phenom 300
- the Cessna Citation XLS
Photo credit: cessna.txtav.com
3. Midsize Jets
If a light aircraft doesn’t get you far enough or isn’t big enough to accommodate you and all your friends or business associates, or if you’re just looking for a more luxurious yet all-around combination of comfort and value, then you may need to charter a midsize aircraft.
These aircraft are a profitable alternative to more expensive heavy-duty ships to maintain. Aircraft of the midsize jets category can accommodate up to 7-8 passengers, and the cabin allows for movement without restrictions. The main difference is a roomy interior, which is convenient to move around, the presence of a well-equipped bathroom, and a spacious luggage compartment.
Depending on the model of the midsize jet, the average travel time varies from 4 to 5 hours. The maximum range of flights reaches 2-3 thousand miles.
The best midsize jets are:
- Gulfstream G150
- Cessna Citation Latitude
- Cessna Citation Sovereign+
- the Learjet 60
- Embraer Praetor 500
Photo credit: monarchairgroup.com
4. Super Midsize Jets
Super midsize jets share many features with larger heavy jets. They boast superior range, size, and some extra features over most standard mid-sized aircraft but are about as economical. Aircraft of this category are designed for flights lasting about 7 hours. Aircraft in this category are usually chosen by our customers when they need to transport up to 11 passengers over long distances.
Private jets in this category can be classified as one of the most convenient options for a number of reasons, including speed, range, cabin spaciousness, and supreme comfort. Features included as a step up from the standard midsize jet include onboard Wi-Fi, a more spacious cabin, and improved avionics for a quieter and more comfortable flight overall.
The cabins of super midsize jets are ideal for passengers who value luxury on board, such as a spacious cabin equipped with fully reclining seats or the best in-flight communication systems, but without the additional costs associated with renting an aircraft of a higher category. This one of luxury jets is designed for groups of 9-12 passengers and provides them with many amenities for an individual flight, including a full kitchen.
Most popular super midsize jets:
- Gulfstream G200
- Cessna Citation Sovereign
- the Bombardier Challenger 350
Photo credit: monarchairgroup.com
5. Heavy Jets
Heavy jets are the largest of the business jet class and allow passengers the ultimate luxury and comfort. Vessels with a capacity of up to 18 passengers and capable of flying for more than 6 hours, these private aircraft are a convenient option for transcontinental flights. Most of these private jets can fly at a maximum altitude of 45,000 to 47,000 feet without problems.
These private aircraft are often used for private flights. The main advantages are a luxurious, spacious interior, a gorgeous luggage compartment, and comfort. The comfort of your stay is provided by soft armchairs, sofas, lounge areas, recreation areas with sleeping places, a bar compartment, electrical equipment, and a full bathroom. In addition, aircraft have high ceilings, which allow you to move freely around the cabin, and are also equipped with a fully insulated bathroom.
The crew includes a flight attendant to assist passengers and fulfill their wishes during the flight. Moreover, the cruising speed of this private aircraft is much higher than that of compact and light jets, which makes it possible to overcome transcontinental distances.
Most famous examples of heavy jets:
- Gulfstream G350
- Bombardier Challenger 605
- Dassault Falcon 900
Photo credit: dassaultfalcon.com
6. Ultra-Long Range Heavy Jets
Ultra-long range heavy jets are the most popular aircraft in the business aviation market. They can accommodate 14-19 passengers and fly non-stop for up to 8-9 hours. The category of ultra-long-haul aircraft includes aircraft capable of flying from 8,500 km to 12,900 km without stopping to refuel.
These aircraft are equipped with versatile cabins with separate compartments for work, dining, or lounging, as well as first-class amenities. In such aircraft, you can not only stand to your full height but also lie down – thanks to the presence of full-fledged sleeping places. Furthermore, these private jets are preferred by the top management of large companies and representatives of show business.
The most common ultra-long range jets:
- Bombardier Global 5000
- Global Express
- Global XRS
- Global 6000
- Global 7500
- Dassault Falcon 7X, 8X
- Gulfstream GV, G500, G550 G650
Photo credit: gulfstream.com
7. Executive Airlines
A business liner can be called an elite aircraft. These jet rentals are chosen by senior management, businessmen, and movie and show business stars. The liner operates on long intercontinental routes and makes numerous flights between cities within one day, helping to maintain a tight schedule. Almost all executive jets are designed for transcontinental flights.
The presence of meeting rooms allows you to solve current business issues and hold seminars, meetings, and business meetings directly during the flight. The kitchen with the latest equipment ensures the fulfillment of any culinary wishes of passengers. In addition, you can relax and rejuvenate in separate bedrooms and recreation areas. Thanks to its roomy size, it is great for holding parties in the air. All this creates conditions for the complete privacy of passengers, which is necessary both for relaxation and for work.
The most popular and well-known executive airliners:
- Boeing Business Jet BBJ
- Airbus Corporate Jet ACJ
- Airbus ACJ380
- Airbus ACJ319
- Boeing B747-8
Photo credit: monarchairgroup.com
Which Private Jet is Right for You?
Each person has their own reasons for deciding to charter a private jet. For some, comfort is the main criterion, while others prefer the practicality provided by a private flight.
Because of the difference in priorities, some private jets are preferred to meet specific needs. In addition to the wishes of customers, it is necessary to take into account the nuances of departure and landing airports, travel distance, as well as the number of suitcases transported – all these will play a key role when choosing a private jet.
Therefore, the following questions will help you when deciding which private jet to choose for your trip:
How many passengers will be on board?
The number of passengers is one of the essential keys when choosing a private jet. For example, very light jets are suitable for clients who travel in small groups. Midsize aircraft usually carry 9 to 12 passengers. A large group can choose a heavy jet to travel.
What is the travel distance?
As far as private jet range is concerned, a difference of several thousand kilometers often plays a decisive role. Therefore, you should choose based on the remoteness of the destination. Very light jets and turboprops are ideal for short trips. In comparison, heavy jets are suitable for long-haul flights.
Is there luggage, and if so, how bulky is it?
For business trips, a large luggage compartment is usually not required, but if you are flying on vacation with your family, you need to fit everything you need. Therefore, the dimensions of the items are also important.
Are there any preferences for liners?
Private jet models also differ in the set of equipment and equipment that they managed to place on them. For example, customers can choose very light and light jets if they need all the minimal amenities of a private jet in a small package. However, clients who want the most luxurious experience should choose midsize, super midsize, heavy jets, and executive airlines. The comfort of staying in private jets of this type is provided by soft armchairs, sofas, lounge areas, recreation areas with sleeping places, a bar compartment, electrical equipment, and a full bathroom.
The private aviation industry has been gaining momentum in recent years. Many people charter or purchase private jets thanks to their privacy, time savings, and increased comfort compared to traditional commercial flights. Each of the jets on the market has its advantages and disadvantages, so you can choose a private jet that is best adapted to your needs.
