Charter Jet Types Explained

Are you the one curious about luxurious air travel? Then, renting a private aircraft is an exceptional opportunity. The inconveniences of flying on a commercial airline are eliminated with private jet charters. Basically, flying private jet provides a customized experience that is tailored to your unique requirements.

No#1 Light Jets

At the more compact end of the private jet spectrum are light jets, known for short- to medium-range travel. They typically seat 6-8 passengers, offering nimble and efficient transportation. Light jets prioritize speed and convenience, ideal for quick business trips. Despite their smaller size, they provide luxurious amenities for passengers.

Some of the most popular light jet models include the Cessna Citation CJ3+, Embraer Phenom 300, and Bombardier Learjet 75. These jets offer a balance of performance, comfort, and efficiency. Further, they also make them a common choice for quick business trips, and personal travel within a region.

Features of light jets:

• Range goes around 1,500 – 2,000 nautical miles
• Cruise Speed is about 400 – 500 mph
• Cabin Size: Relatively compact, with limited space for luggage
• Takeoff: Able to access smaller regional airports

Point to Note

The compact size and shorter range of light jets translate to lower operating costs compared to larger private jet classes. This makes them a more budget-friendly option for individuals, small groups, or businesses looking to maximize efficiency for shorter trips.

However, the tradeoff is reduced cabin space and amenities compared to midsize or large cabin jets. In general, light aircraft offer fewer facilities and less space for passengers to walk about freely. Additionally, their range is somewhat reduced, necessitating more frequent stops for recharging on longer trips.

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No#2 Midsize Jets

These aircraft typically seat 7-9 passengers and are well-suited for longer regional trips or short transcontinental flights.

The Gulfstream G280, Dassault Falcon 2000, and Bombardier Challenger 350 are popular versions of midsize jet aircraft. The cabin of a midsize jet is more roomy and luxurious than that of a small jet. What exactly do you think in terms of amenities? They come up with extensive baggage capacity, full-size restrooms, and stand-up headroom. 

Key characteristics:

• Total Capacity: 7-9 seats
• The range is expected from 2,500 to 3,500 nautical miles
• Speed of cruise: 450 – 550 mph
• Cabin Size: Larger than light jets, with more room to move around

Midsize jets also offer more flexibility in terms of airport access. Their improved takeoff and landing performance allows them to utilize a broader network of regional and secondary airports. 

No#3 Super-Midsize Jets

The super-midsize jet class is in the ideal gap between midsize and large cabin aircraft for individuals looking for even greater passenger rooms. These aircraft can carry up to ten people and can travel across continents on prolonged journeys.

Notable features are:

• Seat capacity ranges from eight to ten
• 3,500–4,500 nautical miles is the range.
• 500–600 mph is the cruise speed.
• Performance: Capable of reaching a large number of airports 

Super-midsize jets offer a more luxurious and well-appointed cabin experience compared to their midsize counterparts. Amenities often include fully enclosed lavatories, built-in entertainment systems, and even sleeping accommodations for longer flights.

The extended range of super-midsize jets also allows for seamless transcontinental travel, with the ability to fly nonstop between major U.S. cities or even cross the Atlantic Ocean. 

No#4 Large Cabin Jets

These imposing jets offer the ultimate in space, luxury, and long-range capabilities, catering to the most discerning travelers.

Moreover, large cabin models include the Gulfstream G650ER, Bombardier Global 7500, and Dassault Falcon 8X. 

Important features of large cabin aircraft involve:

• Seat Capacity: 10–16 passengers
• 5,000–8,000 nautical miles is the range.
• 500–600 mph is the cruise speed.
• Launch Performance: Able to reach the majority of airports globally

Large cabin jets are the most expensive private jet category to charter. Its hourly rates can easily exceed $10,000 or more. Heads of state, Fortune 500 executives, and other ultra-high-net-worth individuals and organizations use them.

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No#5 Turboprops

While not technically a private jet, turboprop aircraft deserve a mention as they offer a compelling alternative for certain private aviation needs. Turboprop engines power aircraft with propellers instead of pure jet engines, offering a balance of speed, range, and operating efficiency. Popular turboprop models include the Pilatus PC-12, Beechcraft King Air 350, and Daher TBM 940. 

What makes turboprops best:

• Seat capacity: six to nine
• 1,000–2,000 nautical miles is the range.
• Speed at Cruise: 250–350 mph
• Large and pleasant for a turboprop cabin
• Launch and Landing Performance: Outstanding, with the ability to use short runways 

Turboprops offer several advantages over light jets in certain use cases. They generally have lower operating costs, can access a wider range of airports, and are often more fuel-efficient for shorter, regional hops. 

Specialty and Customized Jets

In addition to the primary private jet categories outlined above, the private aviation market also offers a range of more specialized or customized aircraft options.

These can include:

• VIP Airliners: Commercial aircraft that have been converted and have larger, luxurious cabins, such as the Airbus ACJ319 or Boeing 737.
• Jets having modular cabins that may be set up to carry both passengers and cargo are known as convertible or combi jets.
• Specialized mission jets are aircraft designed to do certain tasks, such as aerial photography, air ambulance services, or medevac.
• Tailored Interiors: Exclusive aircraft including unique interior decor, furniture, and amusement units.

Specialty aircraft are designed to meet specific needs or preferences of the operator that regular private jet configurations might not be able to. They cater to the most discriminating customers with an even greater degree of customization and bespoke service.

Note:

They are typically reserved for high-profile individuals, government officials, or organizations with very specific private aviation needs.

Choosing the Right Private Jet for Your Needs

Key factors to consider when choosing a private jet include:

• Trip Duration and Range Requirements
• Number of Passengers and Amount of Luggage
• Budget and Operating Cost Preferences
• Desired Cabin Size, Amenities, and Comfort Level
• Airport Accessibility and Performance Needs

Conclusion

If you’re looking to take your travel to new heights, consider exploring the world of private aviation. At LIVT, our unique regional flight model exemplifies our commitment to providing cost-effective, high-quality private aviation solutions just for you!