How Fast Do Private Jets Fly?

Have you ever wondered how fast private jets fly? There is no denying that chartering a jet will get you to your destination much faster than a commercial airliner. But why? Is it because the jet is more capable? Or is it because the private jet charter process is more efficient?

Let’s take a look at all the variables that impact the speed of a private jet — and find out just how fast private jets fly. 

How Fast Do Private Jets Fly? 

Just like motor vehicles, private jets fly at different speeds. How fast your private jet will fly will depend on the size and type of the jet. For instance, smaller private jets may only see speeds less than 350 mph. 

The average cruising speed of a private jet is about 600 miles per hour, often with a top speed of about 700 mph. And, if you want to talk about a really fast jet, check out the Cessna Citation X+ — it is known to be the fastest private jet available with a top speed of 717 mph. 

Private Jets vs. Commercial Airliners: Which One Is Faster? 

Believe it or not, most private jets are faster than commercial airliners. After all, many commercial jets, such as the commonly used Boeing 747, have a cruising speed of about 500 mph, with most traveling between 460 to 575 mph. 

There are a couple of different reasons this happens. 

Private jets are smaller and lighter — especially when compared to your commercial airliner. They are made of lighter materials and have fewer passengers. This allows it to be more efficient in the air. 

Private jets travel at higher altitudes, resulting in less resistance. Due to their weight and size, these smaller jets can make it higher in the sky where the air is thinner and faster cruising speeds are possible. Commercial jets, unfortunately, cannot reach the same elevation.

Save Time on a Private Jet

Without even considering the speed, you can feel confident that you will save time on a private jet. That reason has to do with all the perks that come with private travel. For instance, you won’t have a layover or connecting flight to catch when you book a private charter. On a commercial flight, depending on the predetermined flight plans, these stops could add hours to your trip.

A few other ways you save time on a private jet include: 

• No need to arrive hours ahead of the flight — simply show up about 15 to 20 minutes before it’s scheduled to leave.
• Not having to spend time waiting in lines to check in or to get through security checkpoints. 
• Having more options for airports at your destination, getting you closer and avoiding heavy traffic of major airports. 

Chartering a private jet is the fastest and most convenient option for air travel. 

Types of Private Jets

Many different types of private jets range in size and ability. Some are meant to carry a large number of passengers or travel long distances whereas others only have room for a few and don’t have quite the range. 

A few popular types of jets include: 

• Very light jets
• Light jets
• Turboprops
• Midsize jets
• Super–mid jets
• Heavy jets
• Jumbo jets

It is always a good idea to take a look at the options available before you book your flight so that you can make the most of your getaway. 

The Right Jet For Your Needs

If you take a look at a reputable company’s charter fleet, you will quickly notice that there are many different private jets to choose from, varying in both size and power. While they all have their luxurious amenities, choosing the right one that checks off all the boxes can enhance your trip. 

So, what is the right jet for your needs? Working with a charter team and discussing who you are traveling with and where you are traveling to can assist them in helping you choose your destination. 

Group Travel 

Traveling as a group means needing to have a jet capable of holding a large number of passengers. Below are a couple of heavy jet and jumbo jet options and the number of passengers they hold.

• Challenger 601 – 10 passengers
• Global Express – 14 passengers
• Gulfstream G-IV – 13 passengers 
• Airbus A320 – 60 passengers
• Boeing Business Jet – 20 passengers
• Boeing 737 – 60 passengers

Each of these jets is capable of traveling great distances and has comfortable seating, entertainment systems, lavatories, galleys, and so forth. Everything you need will be available to you. 

Short Distance

When you need a small jet for a short flight, where do you turn? These jets may be the best go-to option. 

• Eclipse 500 – 4 passengers and a range of 1,295 nautical miles
• Hawker 400XP – 8 passengers and a range of 1,500 nautical miles
• King Air 350 – 10 passengers and a range of 2,031 nautical miles

Long Distance 

To travel across the country and outside of the country, you are going to need a private jet with range. Try these: 

• Citation X – 8 passengers and a range of 3,050 nautical miles
• Challenger 300 – 9 passengers and a range of 3,500 nautical miles
• Falcon 900 – 13 passengers and a range of 4,000 nautical miles

Traveling With The Early Air Way

Getting where you need to go via air travel is so easy when you have the charter fleet from The Early Air Way. Jets of all sizes and all speeds, taking you right around the corner or across the globe. Not sure which one is right for you? Contact our knowledgeable charter team. 

As you solidify your travel plans, book your private jet charter with The Early Air Way. It is the best way to find out just how fast private jets fly. 

Contact The Early Air Way today! And don’t forget to explore our jet hedging program and empty leg specials!