Chartering a private jet is a lot like renting a car. You can start with the basic economy class and work your way up to the fully-loaded luxury model. It depends on what your needs are, what your budget is, and what you plan to do while aboard the chartered jet. The number of people traveling will also play a factor. Similar to a car, there are many options to choose from when you charter a private jet. How do you decide what to choose? What are the most popular private jets?
If you are new to the world of private jet charters, then you may be confused when trying to choose the best charter jet for you. Attempting to book a charter when you are clueless may seem like a daunting task, as well. So, we have decided to help you out. We have put together a list of the most popular private jets to charter, as well as a little bit of detail – the good, bad, and ugly of each.
The 6 Most Popular Private Jets on the Market
Before we go into detail about each jet, and why they have become so popular, here is an overview of the 6 most popular private jets to charter right now. Each charter jet has its own set of benefits, and with the help of this guide, you can choose your next charter jet based on your needs!
The 6 most popular private jets right now include:
- The Cessna Citation X
- The Cessna Citation Mustang
- Embraer Phenom 100
- The Bombardier Learjet 35
- Bombardier Challenger 850
- The Gulfstream 100
The Cessna Citation X
If you need to get somewhere fast, the Cessna Citation X is probably your best chance of doing so. In fact, it is listed as one of the fastest business jet in the world, making it one of the most popular private jets to charter. Top speeds of approximately 700 mph can explain why. You can thank its Rolls Royce engine, of course.
The Cessna Citation X is an 8-seater jet that comes equipped with incredibly comfortable leather seating. But, in case you want to avoid jet-lag or you have spent too much time traveling and want to get some shut-eye, these seats recline into beds.
Each Cessna Citation X is pre-wired for Wi-Fi so that you can keep the business going while in the air or relax with some in-flight entertainment.
The Cessna Citation Mustang
Just as the Ford Mustang is not your ideal family automobile, the size of the Cessna Citation Mustang is not either. This is a 4-seater business jet – in addition to two seats for the crew. While it may seem a bit small – at 10ft in length for cabin space – this jet is actually a decent size. The comfortable leather seating and the included restroom make it the perfect getaway jet for charters.
With cruising speeds nearly half that of the Cessna Citation X, the Mustang is quite a bit slower and may not be very suitable (or, at least as efficient) for long-distance travel.
Many of the Citation Mustangs have been sold since they first entered the market in 2005 – and are widely used for charters today. Unfortunately, Cessna ceased production of this model in 2017.
Embraer Phenom 100
The Embraer Phenom 100 is a super-light aircraft that is fairly new to the business jet world. Used all over the world, these jets are technically designed for four passengers and two crew members. However, there is an optional side seat in the cabin and a seatbelt on the toilet which can allow for additional passengers if needed.
The cabin space in this private jet is about 11.5 feet in length and is roomy enough for the small number of passengers. The seats are small, and they have move-able armrests. Each seat also has an available pullout tray table.
While the Embraer Phenom 100 doesn’t come automatically equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities, it is an added option. If you are seeking a charter for business travel and are in need of in-flight connectivity, you may way to discuss this first.
The Bombardier Learjet 35
This business jet, the Learjet 35, is one of the most popular private jets available, and is widely used in the charter industry. It has the capacity to hold seven passengers and two crew members. It also has a belted toilet, if needed. The downfall, however, has to be cabin size of this jet. At just under 13ft in length, it creates cramped quarters if filled to capacity. In addition, the height of the cabin is less than 5-feet.
Its average cruise speed is a healthy 529mph. This makes it much faster than many other light charter jets in the industry. That is likely why it had a production span that lasted from 1973 until 1994. And, they are still extremely popular today.
Bombardier Challenger 850
Due to its extravagance, the Challenger is one of the most popular private jets available today. For the executive that is looking for a more luxurious and larger chartered business jet, look no further than the Bombardier Challenger 850. Created in 2006, this jet comes in different interior designs – so the passenger seating can vary from 15 passengers to a whopping 50 passengers. Obviously, the fewer passengers, the more comfortable the design. For example, many have room for a lounge or entertainment area, restrooms in the front and rear of the jet, and spacious seating (forward and sidewall facing) throughout the remainder.
The biggest downfall of this private jet is that its size does keep it from accessing certain private or executive airports. That means passengers may be required to access the jet at a larger, commercial airport and have to wait to arrive and depart based on commercial aircraft traffic.
If you are looking to impress business colleagues or a new client, the Challenger 850 may be a great choice.
The Gulfstream 100
Last, but not least, is the Gulfstream 100. Although no longer in production, this is a great business jet that can travel long distances at great speeds. It is reliable and sturdy, holding between six to nine passengers, and making the list of most popular private jets to charter.
The seating in the cabin is more comfortable than many other business jets. It also comes standard with an enclosed restroom. The cabin length is approximately 17 feet and the height is 5 ft 7 inches. This can make this space seem less restrictive.
The design of the Gulfstream 100 was primarily focused on speed rather than comfort. However, when compared with other aircraft in its class, it has them beat in both areas.
Choosing your perfect business jet for your next chartered trip doesn’t have to be confusing. Get to know the aircrafts available – and learn the pros and cons of each. If you know what you are looking for and what ranks highest on your priority list – comfort, speed, luxury, amenities – then your next charter should be a breeze.