Types of private jet and their amenities

Very Light Jets

VLJs are relatively new to private aviation and simply offer an alternative to piston and turboprop aircraft for ultra-short-haul journeys on a budget. Cheaper to run than their standard private jet counterparts and able to use shorter runways, they’re popular with both personal use as well as use as a point-to-point air taxi. Some in this category will have a lavatory whereas some will not; they also do not have a flight attendant on board. Examples of this aircraft are the Cessna Citation Mustang, the Embraer Phenom 100 and the Eclipse 500.

Light Jets

Light jets are probably one of the most common types of jet chartered for business. Most executive travel fits within a 2-3 hour radius making light jet charters the most cost efficient and comfortable short-haul solution. Most will carry up to eight passengers and with a range of hold-size options, they are more cost effective than their larger counterparts but still have good range. Most come with an on board lavatory but there is the odd one without; they also don’t have a flight attendant. Some of the most popular models for business travellers are the Dassault Falcon 10, Cessna Citation CJ4 and Hawker Beechcraft Premier 1A.

Mid-Sized Jets

There is a lot of choice when it comes to mid-size jets, with different combinations of range, speed and comfort allowing them to be viable for both short-haul and long-haul flights. A more efficient alternative to the larger heavy jets, their lower operating costs along with ample luggage compartments, fold out divans and enclosed bathrooms make them a popular choice. Most also offer full stand-up cabins and some such as the Embraer Legacy 500 and Hawker Beechcraft 800XP have a flight attendant on board. There are also some super-mid-size jets available, which are aimed at those looking for something a little bigger and capable of flying further than their standard mid-size counterparts. Our favourites include the Bombardier Learjet 35, the Cessna Citation Sovereign and the Bombardier Learjet 60XR.

Heavy Jets

Heavy jets come in two categories; the first is your standard heavy jet able to fly further than their lighter counterparts. The second are the ultra-long range heavy jets which offer the utmost in luxury, without heading into executive airliner territory. Heavy jets are luxurious with stand-up cabins, plenty of passenger and baggage capacity as well as lie-flat beds, enclosed bathrooms and a flight attendant to take care of your every whim. The Bombardier Challenger 604, Embraer Legacy 650 and the Gulfstream GIV are all heavy jets, whilst the Bombardier Global 6000, Gulfstream G550 and Dassault Falcon 7X are ultra-long range.