You know you’ve reached the next level when you’re sitting back pondering which types of private jets you could take on your next trip. Most dream of having this problem, but kudos to you — you’ve earned it.
Not all private jets are made the same. There are many different private jet models to choose from with varying sizes, capabilities, and amenities. You’ll need to decide what you need from your jet so you can determine which is the right fit for you.
We’ll go through all of the different categories of private jets so you can figure out which one you’d like to charter or purchase. We’ll also give you some examples of specific jet models you can look into when planning your next trip.
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Main Differentiators of Private Jets
So what sets one private jet apart from another? It comes down to a few different factors like the size of the jet, how far you can fly, and which amenities you prefer.
Here’s what you should consider when choosing which charter jet you’d like to book or which private aircraft you’d like to add to your fleet.
Size
The size of your jet will determine how many people you can bring, how much space you’ll have, and to what extent you can customize your jet. Would you like to stand up and walk around your jet or are you fine with staying in your seat for the duration of your flight? These are questions you need to ask yourself.
Capacity
The capacity of your jet dictates how many people you can bring and how much luggage you can fit. Some people fly solo for business while others need more space to fly comfortably with larger groups.
Range
A small jet will do just fine if you only plan on flying a few hours. But what if you want to cross the ocean for a European vacation? Larger jets can take you longer distances, but not without the added cost of a more expensive jet and more fuel consumption.
Amenities
It wouldn’t be a private jet experience without added amenities to top off your trip. Private jets can be customized to your tastes. You can decide on everything from state-of-the-art electronics to personalized layouts. You can design your jet for anything you desire. Add bedrooms, spa-like bathrooms, cocktail bars, or lounge areas — the choice is yours.
7 Types of Private Jets
Private jets are grouped into seven different categories based on the factors mentioned above — size, capacity, range, and amenities. Let’s get into the different types of private jets, starting with the smallest: compact light jets.
1. Compact Light Jets
Compact light jets — also known as very light jets — are the smallest private jets you’ll come across. Don’t let the small size fool you. These jets pack a punch and open doors to all types of short-distance adventures.
The compact size of these jets allows you to access over 5,000 small airports around the United States. Unlike larger jets, very light jets need less take-off space, enabling you to use airports with short runways.
These jets are the way to go if you only ever travel solo or with a handful of passengers. They’re perfect for quick day trips across the state, long weekend getaways, or last-minute business meetings a few hours away.
However, you should consider the limited amenities that compact light jets provide. You won’t have the luxury of an in-flight crew and not all jets include a lavatory. While you have the advantage of accessing airstrips that commercial flights don’t offer, you won’t be able to travel far.
Passenger capacity: 4-7 passengers
Range: 1-3 hours
Models:
- Embraer Phenom 100
- Eclipse 500
- Cessna Citation Mustang
2. Small Cabin Light Jets
The small cabin light jet category provides more space and range than compact light jets. You’ll be able to travel further and bring more passengers without having to compromise on comfort. Most small cabin light jets will have a lavatory which isn’t the norm for all compact jets.
Small cabin light jets still have their limitations. Like compact jets, you won’t be able to have flight attendants serving you beverages and meals.
This is the ideal option if you want to travel slightly further in your jet than short trips to neighboring cities.
Passenger capacity: Up to 8 passengers
Range: 2-3 hours
Models:
- Bombardier Learjet 35
- Cessna Citation II
- Hawker Beechcraft Premier 1A
- Cessna Citation CJ4
- Dassault Falcon 10
3. Super Light Jets
Super light jets are nearly the same type of jet as small cabin light jets, but with increased range, larger size, and added comfort. You’ll still be able to access all the same small airports as light jets, but you’ll be able to travel longer distances and ride in comfort.
You’ll receive added amenities like air conditioning, reclining seats, and electronics, which most small cabin light jets are lacking. If you want a compact jet with the flexibility of going further distances, then super light jets will be right up your alley.
Passenger capacity: Up to 8 passengers
Range: 3-4 hours
Models:
- Embraer Phenom 300
- Gulfstream G100
- Citation Excel
- Citation XLS
- Gulfstream G100
- Learjet 45XR
- Hawker Beechcraft 750
- Citation XLS
4. Midsize Cabin Jets
Midsize cabin jets give you the best of both worlds. You can do a long-haul trip while still having the option to land at smaller airports with shorter runways. These models feature cabins big enough to stand in and give you more space for your guests and luggage.
Midsize cabin jets have the ability to do transcontinental flights. Pressurized cabins make high-altitude flights not only possible but more enjoyable and comfortable.
They also provide a comfortable ride for a long flight but aren’t too expensive to use for short-distance flights. Overall, they’re a good investment since they’re flexible for different types of travel. That must be why they’re a crowd favorite among business executives.
Passenger capacity: Up to 8 passengers
Range: 7 hours
Models:
- Cessna Citation Excel
- Hawker Beechcraft 900XP
- Learjet 60xr
- Gulfstream G150
5. Super Midsize Cabin Jets
Super midsize cabin jets are an upgraded midsize jet with more perks and added comforts. These versatile jets are also a favorite of business executives who want to be productive in the air while flying in style.
So what do you get with a super-midsize cabin jet? You’ll have a wider body, which gives you a bigger cabin than their smaller counterparts. The larger body makes for a smoother and more quiet ride — perfect for long-distance flights.
Super midsize cabins give you top-notch amenities and luxury but at a bargain price. You’ll have everything the smaller jets offer — like air conditioning, reclining seats, and electronics — but with additional features like in-flight WiFi so you can still work while you’re on the go.
Passenger capacity: Up to 12 passengers
Range: 7 hours
Models:
- Cessna Citation Sovereign
- Citation X
- Bombardier Challenger 300
6. Large Cabin Heavy Jets
Large cabin heavy jets are the jets that come to mind when you think of private air travel. Welcome to the lifestyles of the rich and the famous.
Large jets have a few different categories that can blend together — large-cabin jets, heavy jets, and ultra-long-range heavy jets. Think of the commercial jets you’ve flown in and then imagine customizing them to your every need.
These jets provide the amenities dreams are made of. Private sleeping areas, spacious walk-in showers, and ample space for lounging around in the air are common perks for this category of jets. They also provide ample workspace for businesses interested in flying their executives across the country.
Passenger capacity: Up to 16 passengers
Range: 9-13 hours
Models:
- Bombardier Global 6000
- Embraer Legacy 500
- Gulfstream G450
- Gulfstream G550
- Dassault Falcon 7x
- Gulfstream GIV
7. Bizliners
Bizliners — also known as executive liners — are the cream of the crop when it comes to the types of private jets. They are the largest and most expensive jets that money can buy.
Bizliners are like your second home in the sky. They offer the same range and speed as large cabin heavy jets but with luxurious customization, personalized interiors, and custom amenities.
You can customize your jet for your exact needs. You can create conference style seating for your executives if you plan on primarily using your jet for business purposes.
You can up the lounging space and entertainment electronics if you plan on keeping your jet for personal use for you, your family, and your friends. You could have a cocktail bar for guests to grab a drink and a large lounge area for everyone to enjoy in the air. There’s nothing off-limits when it comes to choosing the layout and amenities you add to your jet.
You also have plenty of space to accommodate a large flight crew to serve you and your guests. Eight-hour flights would seem like a short jaunt with the luxury you’ll have.
Passenger capacity: Capacity varies greatly. Generally, 18 passengers or more.
Range: 13 hours
Models:
- Airbus A318
- Boeing BBJ
- Embraer Lineage 1000
Finding the Right Jet For You
With all this in mind, which jet do you think is the best fit for you? Are you looking for something agile and compact that can get you to neighboring cities in a hurry? Or would you prefer something more spacious and luxurious that you can use to entertain large groups of family, friends, or business associates?
Whichever types of private jets you like best, there are several private aviation options you can look into. Companies like Jet Linx and NetJets offer different private jet charter and private jet ownership models. These two companies are a great start to finding your next private jet, especially if you’re new to the game.
