Nowadays, flying private is becoming more accessible and affordable. Call it a bizjet or a private jet, it remains to be a fruitful investment, with more people taking advantage of its numerous benefits. However, selecting which private jet to buy will require you to do in-depth industry research. “To make things simpler, you must first analyze the top 7 most popular types of private jets, says Ashish Bhandari from Dubai”. 

1. Very Light Jets (VLJ)- This classification was first initiated in 2006, costing between $1 to 2.50 million, much cheaper than the current existing jets & considered as entry level jets. They are the smallest kind in the market and their most notable feature is that they are compatible with shorter runways, allowing you to explore more destinations. They are cheaper to run / maintain & have a seating capacity of 4 to 5 passengers (plus crew) and a range between 700 – 1,200 nautical miles. Examples are Phenom 100, Cirrus Vision Jet, Honda Jet & Eclipse 550. They offer an alternative to piston and turbo prop aircraft. These jets are very popular amongst owner pilots. They can reach cruise speeds of up to 410 mph.     

2. Light Jets – Making it more ideal for business travelers, these have a better capacity for 6 to 8 passengers and offer better legroom along with a nominal lavatory area. Small light jets are ideal for a two to three-hour journey with an average speed of 450 to 500 miles per hour. The cabins don’t offer that great headroom; however, they provide a rear section for luggage. The range varies from 1,100 to 2,000 nautical miles. Examples are Learjet 40 XR & Hawker Premier 1A.  

3. Super Light Jets – Super Light Jets are longer than Very Light and Small Light Jets, ranging up to 2,500 nautical miles. They are a step up in terms of range, size & comfort. Despite being spacious and large, these jets can land in less crowded airports. Power outlets and refreshment centers are often spotted in Super Light Jets and they offer a fully enclosed lavatory. They can reach cruise speeds of up to 510 mph. Examples are Embraer Phenom 300 & Gulfstream G100.

4. Midsize Cabin Jets – Running at a range of 3,000 nautical miles and above, they are ideal for transcontinental trips and can accommodate 8 to 10 passengers. The mid-size class of aircraft offers more comfort and amenities than light and even super-light jets, such as ample luggage compartments, fold out divans, an on-board lavatory, and most have stand-up cabins. Midsize cabin jets should be the ideal choice for fulfilling the basic requirements considering all parameters. Examples are Hawker 850 XP / 900 XP, Cessna Citation Excel & Bombardier Challenger 350. They can reach cruise speeds in excess of 530 mph

5. Super-Midsize Cabin Jets – They share a lot of traits with the large Heavy Jets. With a spectacular range of 3,000 – 4,000 nautical miles, super midsize cabin jets have that amazing balance between the comfort and efficiency of the jet. Features include on-board Wi-Fi, a roomier cabin, and improved avionics for a quieter and more comfortable flight overall. Examples include Cessna Citation X & Bombardier Challenger 605. Some of these can reach cruising speed just short of the sound barrier at Mach 0.92

6. Heavy Jets / Ultra Long Range Heavy Jets – With luxurious seating capabilities, heavy jets make long flights much more comfortable. These jets are furnished with a full-sized galley that provides a standard for refreshments. They have an average range above 5,000 nautical miles and some jets can accommodate up to 20 passengers. Ultra-Long-Range Heavy Jets are considered to be the ultimate class symbol, providing generous cabin space with different areas dedicated to entertainment facilities, enclosed bathrooms, sleeping areas, and relaxation. Ultra-long-range heavy jets are the optimum choice for long-haul travelers, with a seating capacity of 14-17 passengers. Examples include Bombardier Global 5000. They cruise at speeds in excess of 530 mph.

7. Executive Liners – Often referred to as bizliners, executive airliners are usually commercial airline aircraft that have been converted into luxury apartments. Executive amenities like dining areas, conference rooms, overhead storage compartments, walk-in cupboards, and full-service galleys manned by flight attendants, make them the most expensive private jets in the market. The hourly cost to rent these can be in excess of USD 60,000 per hour. They can seat anywhere from 20 to 50 passengers. Examples include Airbus A319. Their range is above 6000 miles & they cruise typically at 500-560 miles an hour.

Ashish Bhandari (Dubai) says, “Selecting a Private jet before buying becomes way easier once you select the type of jet according to your needs and requirements. Capacity is the most important factor before choosing a private jet and it’s basic to determining the number of passengers traveling. Apart from this, other aspects such as features, amenities, the economy of travel, the range of your jet, etc. are relevant”.

Private jets are all about choice, we hope this blog helps you make the right one. 

By

Ashish Bhandari,

Dubai

About the Author

Ashish Bhandari is a passionate Aviator & an Ex- Banker based in Dubai. He currently serves as an Advisor to Aviator EMF and has advised on various strategic investments in India and beyond. He is also a Shareholder at EZ Capital Group.