Types of Private Jets - Which Business Jets Are the Best?

Here’s everything you need to know about each type of private jet.

Here’s everything you need to know about each type of private jet. From small single-engine planes to large jets that can almost break the sound barrier – here’s a detailed guide.

Private jets are popular due to their privacy, time-saving benefits, and increased level of comfort compared to traditional commercial flights. However, with a wide variety of private jet types available, making the right choice can initially seem like a daunting task.

Some jets have showers. Others feature cabins. In some rare cases, there may be no restroom at all.

Therefore, it’s essential to determine which private jet suits your needs, has all the necessary features, and fits your budget. Different aircraft will perform better in different scenarios. Additionally, having a basic understanding of aircraft types will significantly simplify the booking process.

Type of Private Jet – Very Light Jets (VLJ)

As the name suggests, Very Light Jets are the smallest type of jets on the market. VLJs are economical in operation, rental, and maintenance.

Very Light Jets typically have a range of just over 1,000 nautical miles (1,150 miles / 1,850 km). As a result, these jets are ideal for flights lasting up to 3 hours. The onboard passenger capacity is comfortably suited for four passengers.

However, all VLJs (indeed, all private jets) have a much higher stated passenger capacity than what is realistically feasible. For example, the HondaJet officially accommodates up to six passengers. Four will sit in club seats in the main cabin, one on a side seat, and another in the cockpit.

Nevertheless, no respectable charter operator will allow passengers in the cockpit. Charter operators will insist on having two pilots for safety reasons.

This leads to another feature of VLJs – they are certified for single-pilot operation. While this won't matter if you are renting a VLJ, it will be significant if you intend to own or lease one. Thus, you will have the option to hire just one pilot or fly the aircraft yourself.

Moreover, VLJs are significantly more economical than larger jets. The average fuel consumption for a VLJ is about 100 gallons per hour (GPH).

Background of VLJs

VLJs are a relatively new phenomenon in the world of private aviation. The first true VLJ was the Eclipse. Deliveries of the Eclipse 500 began in 2006 and quickly gained popularity. However, due to financial difficulties, production ceased in 2008.

Following the rapid success of the Eclipse 500, Cessna launched the Cessna Citation Mustang. Like the Eclipse 500, the Mustang instantly became popular. It is well-suited for transporting up to 4 passengers on short flights across North America and Europe.

The smallest VLJ, and therefore the smallest jet on the market, is the Cirrus Vision Jet, which features just one jet engine. Nevertheless, this doesn’t prevent it from achieving impressive numbers. The Vision Jet can fly at a speed of 311 knots and can cover a maximum distance of 1,275 nautical miles without refueling.

It’s important to note that both the Eclipse 500 and Cirrus Vision Jet do not have onboard restrooms.

VLJ Interiors

A typical VLJ configuration consists of four seats arranged in a club configuration. A club configuration means the seats face each other. VLJs usually have foldable tables between the seats.

VLJs typically feature a restroom at the rear of the aircraft, with exceptions being the Eclipse 500 and Cirrus Vision Jet.

VLJs have the loudest cabin among all private jets. This is due to the engines being located very close to the cabin. However, a notable exception is the HondaJet, which has engines mounted above the wings. One modern VLJ cabin can be controlled via a phone. Thus, features like cabin sound, lighting, and temperature can be adjusted using an app on your phone.

VLJs typically include storage compartments for refreshments. This provides space for drinks and snacks. Note that the functionality of these storage compartments is not on par with the kitchens found on larger jets. So, don’t expect gourmet meals onboard.

The maximum cabin altitude is typically around 8,000 feet. This is the same cabin altitude as in airliners. The advantage of a lower cabin altitude is that it is more comfortable, as there is more oxygen in the air. Additionally, jet lag will be less severe if you fly at a lower cabin altitude. However, VLJs cannot cover distances that result in significant time zone changes.

Who Are VLJs For?

VLJs are excellent aircraft. They are fast, agile, and economical. They provide all the amenities of a private jet in a compact package. VLJs are a great way to begin your journey into the world of private aviation. The aircraft are comfortable and very safe.

VLJs are ideally suited for the following clients:

• Clients traveling in small groups.
• Short-distance trips.
• Those looking to minimize costs.
• Traveling to and from small airports.

 

Type of Private Jet – Light Jets

Light jets offer greater passenger capacity compared to VLJs. This makes light jets more popular among business travelers.

Light jets can also fly further than VLJs, with an average range of 2,000 nautical miles (2,301 miles / 3,704 km). Light jets usually cruise at speeds of 450–460 knots.

These factors make the aircraft ideal for longer routes than VLJs. Additionally, the aircraft is perfect if you are flying a short distance but need to take a few extra passengers or luggage with you.

This type of private jet can access small airports and runways, just like VLJs. The primary advantage is that you can land closer to your final destination. This way, you reduce the overall travel time.

Moreover, smaller airports will be less congested than larger ones. As a result, less time is spent in airports. All of this contributes to the main benefit of flying on a private jet – time savings.

On this type of private jet, you will find a restroom and a galley.

The typical stated passenger capacity for light jets is from 9 to 10 passengers. However, as is often the case with passenger capacity, you are unlikely to fill all seats. A more realistic capacity is 6 passengers.

Additionally, like VLJs, most light jets are approved for single-pilot operation. So if you purchase a light jet, you can hire just one pilot or fly it yourself.

The most common type of light jet you will encounter is the Embraer Phenom 300/300E. The Brazilian manufacturer has kept the Phenom 300 as one of the most efficient and comfortable light jets on the market.

Other popular light jets include the Cessna Citation CJ3+ and Bombardier Learjet 75 Liberty. However, unfortunately, Bombardier will cease production of Learjet models by the end of 2021.

The Nextant 400XTi deserves mention among light jets due to its exceptional fuel efficiency. The Nextant 400XTi is a refurbished Hawker 400/400A aircraft. However, the scope of the refurbishment is so extensive that technically the 400XTi is considered a new aircraft. The 400XTi is a unique jet with a completely flat floor for maximum comfort.

Interiors

The interior of a light jet is very similar to that of a VLJ, albeit with a couple of additional seats. Seats are usually arranged in a club configuration, with a couple more at the back of the aircraft.

Passengers will be pleased to know that there is a restroom in the tail section of the light jet.

Additionally, this type of private jet often has a small kitchen, typically located at the front of the aircraft.

Foldable tables make it easier to work during the flight. Furthermore, the tables provide enough space for basic meals.

This type of private jet also features increased baggage capacity compared to smaller VLJ counterparts, and the aircraft will be quieter inside.

The cabin altitude usually remains the same as that of VLJs, reaching a maximum of 8,000 feet. However, a notable exception is the Embraer Phenom 300E, which has a maximum cabin altitude of just 6,600 feet.

While light jets may not have as many features compared to VLJs, the main reason some passengers prefer them is the increased space. Although it may not be critical, the slightly larger cabin makes movement easier and provides some privacy.

Who Are Light Jets For?

Light jets are ideal for private aviation clients who need more space than VLJs offer, whether it be for people or items. Additionally, light jets provide greater range and comfort compared to VLJs.

Thus, light jets are perfectly suited for the following clients:

• Clients flying further than VLJs allow.
• Flying with up to 6 passengers.
• Clients needing increased comfort compared to VLJs.

 

Type of Private Jet – Medium Jets

Medium (often referred to as midsize) jets are the optimal choice among aircraft.

These jets can easily fly both short and long distances. They can effortlessly cross continents and oceans.

Medium jets typically accommodate between 9 to 12 passengers. However, unlike VLJs and light jets, these passenger figures are more realistic. Additionally, since medium jets usually require two pilots, the passenger data does not include one person sitting upfront. An exception to this rule is the Pilatus PC-24.

Sometimes you may come across an aircraft referred to as a “midsize jet.” These planes occupy an intermediate position between medium and large jets. However, this distinction is not accounted for here, as the main difference lies in increased range and passenger capacity.

Midsize jets have an average range of 3,000 nautical miles (3,450 miles / 5,555 km) and can fly at speeds of about 460 knots.

The aircraft is larger and more comfortable than VLJs and light jets. The larger cabin is perfect for passengers who require increased overhead space and additional luggage room.

Moreover, with a larger cabin comes more seating capacity. Thus, medium jets are ideal when you need to transport a few more passengers.

Typical medium jets you are likely to encounter include the Cessna Citation Latitude, Cessna Citation Sovereign+, and Embraer Praetor 500.

One particularly notable aircraft in the medium jet category is the Pilatus PC-24. The only SVJ has been dubbed the “super versatile jet.” The PC-24 is a jet that provides ample comfort, impressive performance on short fields, and can land on unpaved runways.

The PC-24 is one of the toughest business jets in the world, with fantastic “off-road” landing capabilities. Additionally, the PC-24 is certified for single-pilot operation and is popular in the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Australia.

Interiors

Inside medium jets, things become genuinely interesting. This is due to the increased range. The significant increase in range has led to the need for greater comfort in medium-sized jets.

Therefore, medium jets tend to be more spacious – in most cases with a completely flat floor. Most medium jets have significantly larger seats and more legroom than light jets.

Additionally, due to their transatlantic range, most medium jets can convert some seats and sofas into fully flat beds.

The galleys are much better equipped on medium jets, enhancing dining capabilities. Furthermore, the aircraft is large enough to consider hiring a flight attendant for the journey.

This type of private jet also has a quieter cabin than smaller aircraft. Moreover, the maximum cabin altitude of these jets is much lower than that of VLJs or light jets.

For medium jets, the maximum cabin altitude can reach 5,800 feet when flying at 45,000 feet.

Who Are Medium Jets For?

Medium jets are ideal if you want to cross continents or oceans. Additionally, medium jets are perfect for clients who need to transport extra passengers over shorter distances.

Medium jets are ideally suited for the following clients:

• Clients looking to fly across oceans, such as from New York to London.
• Flying with a large group over a short distance.
• Clients needing a luxurious yet affordable travel experience.

 

Type of Private Jet – Large Jets

Large jets represent the pinnacle of business aviation. This is where all the latest technologies and developments begin. These are jets that specialize in long-distance travel.

This type of private jet can feature showers, dedicated crew rest areas, two restrooms, and separate sleeping quarters.

Aircraft in this category are produced by some of the most renowned manufacturers in the industry, such as Gulfstream, Bombardier, and Dassault.

These jets are the fastest, highest-flying, and most luxurious.

There is a wide variety within the large jet category. Sometimes you will see a subcategory for ultra-long-range jets.

Range for large jets can vary from just over 3,000 nautical miles (3,452 miles / 5,555 km) to more than 7,500 nautical miles (8,630 miles / 13,890 km).

Large jets typically cruise at a speed of 470–480 knots. However, the top-range jets can easily fly at speeds exceeding 500 knots. This places them just below the speed of sound.

Large jets come in various sizes, starting with the smallest, such as the Gulfstream 280 and Bombardier Challenger 350. These jets are sometimes classified as super-midsize jets.

Other smaller models include the Dassault Falcon 2000S and 2000LXS, as well as the Embraer Praetor 600. All of these jets have solid figures, able to fly at approximately 460 knots with a maximum range of about 4,000 nautical miles.

These jets range in price from $20 million to $30 million. Most can comfortably fly at maximum altitudes between 45,000 and 47,000 feet.

However, in the large jet category, there are several heavy jets, such as the Bombardier Global 7500, Gulfstream G700, and Dassault Falcon 8X.

The Global 7500 and G700 can comfortably fly at speeds of 516 knots (0.9 Mach). The maximum range of the Global 7500 is 7,700 nautical miles. This distance means it can fly nonstop from London to Australia (under suitable conditions). The cabin of the G700 is spacious enough to accommodate up to five distinct living areas.

Interiors

The interior of large jets is simply incredible. Spacious cabins make movement easier. Many large jets can accommodate up to 19 passengers. A jet like the Gulfstream G650 can carry 19 seated passengers and 10 in a sleeping configuration.

There are crew rest areas and two restrooms on the largest aircraft. Additionally, there are shower facilities onboard. Jets like the Dassault Falcon 8X feature a shower in the rear.

The cabin noise level is extremely low: some Gulfstream jets have a cabin noise level of just 47 decibels.

The cabin altitude is also extremely low. The industry-leading Gulfstream jets have a maximum cabin altitude of just 4,100 feet at a cruising altitude of 51,000 feet. This ensures that time zone changes upon arrival will be minimal.

The cabins can, of course, be controlled via phone. Large windows in all cabins fill the space with natural light. The Dassault Falcon 6X even has a skylight, the first of its kind installed in a production business jet.

A full-service kitchen ensures that you can enjoy gourmet meals during the flight. Wi-Fi is often available onboard. Powerful Wi-Fi guarantees that you can participate in video conferences and stream movies.

Aircraft like the Bombardier 7500 are equipped with circadian lighting systems to further reduce jet lag. This, combined with a private cabin in the back of the aircraft, helps to minimize time zone changes even more.

Therefore, in the private cabins of some large jets, there are full-sized beds for the perfect night's sleep.

Who Are Large Jets For?

Large jets are ideal for long-haul flights. If you need to get quickly and comfortably to the other side of the world, these are the aircraft for the job. They are fast, efficient, and luxurious.

Large jets are perfectly suited for the following clients:

• Flying between continents and crossing oceans.
• Clients who want the most luxurious experience.
• Aircraft that can fly faster, higher, and farther than any others.

 

Type of Private Jet – Turboprop Aircraft

Next on the list of private jet types are turboprop aircraft. Although turboprop planes are not equipped with jet engines, meaning they are not considered "private jets," they are impressive aircraft nonetheless.

Clients and passengers often overlook turboprop aircraft due to their engines.

Turboprop aircraft are no less safe than jets. That is to say, they are very safe, even single-engine planes.

A turboprop aircraft typically has a range of around 1,800 nautical miles (2,071 miles / 3,333 km). This places them on par with VLJs.

Types of Turboprop Aircraft

The most common type of turboprop aircraft is the King Air series. The King Air family is the oldest civilian family of twin turboprop aircraft.

King Air planes are produced by Beechcraft. Beechcraft is owned by Textron Aviation, the same company that owns Cessna. The latest King Air models to be developed and released to market are the King Air 360 and King Air 260.

These are two luxurious turboprop aircraft with long ranges and comfortable interiors.

On the other end of the turboprop spectrum is the Pilatus PC-24. Produced by the same company that made the PC-24, the toughest business jet.

The latest version, the PC-12 NGX, has a range of 1,803 nautical miles, can carry up to 10 passengers, and reach speeds of up to 290 knots. An additional advantage for owners is that it has the lowest wear among all aircraft in its class.

Interiors

The interior of most turboprop aircraft is comfortable. While they may not have the low cabin altitude of many jets, they usually have more space.

The PC-12 NGX, for example, features a completely flat floor.

In terms of interior layout, it is very similar to the light jet range of aircraft. Seats are arranged in a club configuration with a couple at the back.

Most often, there is also a restroom onboard.

However, the reason passengers sometimes avoid turboprop engines is due to perceived noise. While turboprop engines may be a few decibels louder than jets, they are serious contenders.

In aircraft like the PC-12 NGX, the engine is located at the front. Thus, the noise is directed towards the front of the cabin, unlike jet engines, which are located at the rear of the aircraft.

Who Are Turboprop Aircraft For?

A turboprop aircraft is ideal for clients who need the range of a VLJ but the interior space of a light jet.

Turboprop engines are perfectly suited for the following clients:

• Those flying short distances.
• Clients needing low operating costs.
• Passengers requiring interior space with excellent performance on short flights.