Have you ever considered, even for one second, what it would be like to fly in a private jet? To skip past those folks waiting to pass through security for the “privilege” of boarding a commercial jet and heading off to their first of two lengthy layovers? Well, let me be the first to tell you that the first time you hire a private jet, your world completely changes. What was once black and white is now filled with colour. The luxury is real. The perks are amazing. The speed. The control. The amazing amount of space. The delicious meals. Get the picture? Good!
Now that you’re onboard (pun intended), let’s check out some of the options that are currently available on the private jet charter market…
Very Light Jets (VLJs)
Let’s start our tour of the different types of private jets with the very light jets group. These small, power-packed aircraft are designed to be piloted by one certified pilot, while as many as six passengers can be seated comfortably in the cabin (although honestly, four is optimal if you want plenty of elbow room). One thing you will notice about very light jets is that while they are the smallest in size, they are also the most affordable.
Very light jets are perfect for business trips or day trips to Paris, romantic weekends, or holiday escapes to any of the amazing European cities that these aircraft can reach. And talk about fun! The modern VLJ is built to impress, coming equipped with a refreshment centre and plenty of high-tech gadgets that allow for work or play.
Light Jets (LJs)
Next up on our tour of aircraft within the private sector, we have light private jets. Similar to its little brother, the VLJ, these are an affordable option for any number of potential locales. We see the maximum travel range essentially doubled with this group. We also see faster cruising speeds. Who doesn’t love the idea of zipping through the air at 460 knots on their very own private jet? Sure, let’s exclude those who suffer from aviophobia, bless their poor hearts. Pro tip: therapy can help!
In the LPJ, we see the seating space expanded to as many as ten passenger seats. That said, six tends to be the optimal number for plenty of personal space. One benefit that must be mentioned, and also applies to VLJs, is the fact that their smaller size opens up a world of opportunities when it comes to smaller airfields. Larger jets can only look down and wave at these, while smaller jets can land safely and allow passengers to enjoy faster connections.
Midsize Jets (MSJs)
Our next group of power-packed aircraft is the mid-size jet. Ah, yes, medium-sized. For those times when the VLJ and LPJ just won’t suffice, but the super-larger monster-sized jets are just too much to handle. The term “sweet spot” just may have been coined to describe MSJs. Okay, kidding, but just maybe? Alright, alright. Moving on…
Have you noticed a pattern yet? Excellent! You’ve guessed correctly. Mid-size jets are larger and faster and can fly further on a single tank of fuel than the previous two. Some models are capable of transporting as many as twelve adults. These aircraft have more than enough headroom for the tall people in your travel party, while also providing plenty of luggage space for those who like to take the entire house with them when travelling (you know who you are). Add to these perks the fact that mid-size jets are yet another affordable option, and what we have is a jet that can wear many different coats.
Super Midsize Jets (SMJs)
The growth pattern continues with super midsize jets. These are the big brother (or sister) to the MSJ. With the power to fly for as many as seven nonstop hours, this option will transport you to virtually any airport in Europe and even beyond. The cabin size makes quite the jump with this one. So much so that for the average-sized adult, there will be more than enough standing room. The super midsize also comes with a larger galley and a full restroom that is ideal for, well, you know, restroom-type stuff.
One benefit that we have yet to mention is noise. This is the first jet in the list that should be mentioned for its ability to limit cabin noise. This may or may not be important, depending on whether you are flying for business or leisure, but regardless, it should be mentioned. The SMJ also comes with all of the bells and whistles. Next-generation entertainment systems, loaded with the tech goodies that we all know and love. In many ways, this is the perfect aircraft for a wide range of travel needs.
Heavy Jets (HJs)
Now we are going to talk about the heavyweight categories, which include heavy jets. The seating with these can vary greatly, ranging from nine to nineteen. This depends solely on the model and the specific layout. Don’t let this discourage you, as your chosen private jet broker will ensure that you are paired up with the perfect model to suit your needs. These jets are often chartered for business purposes but can also be excellent options for all forms of small- to mid-size group travel. A large galley, lavatory, first-class-style seats, and even beds make an appearance in a heavy jet. Oh, and let’s not forget the expanded travel range, up to 6,400 kilometres nonstop. Are you impressed yet? I clearly remember being impressed when I first boarded a heavy jet!
Ultra-Long-Range Heavy Jets & VIP Airliners
Let’s have a moment of silence for these, the true bosses of the private jet industry, the ultra-long-range heavy jets (try to say that three times quickly in a row). With these jets, we’re talking red carpet treatment. We’re taking flight attendants, gourmet meals complete with champagne, and multiple cabin spaces (think bedrooms, meeting spaces, and even dining rooms). The ULRHJ is also the boss of the skies thanks to its ability to cover massive distances with no stops along the way. We’re talking London to Los Angeles. Should you be unable to envision one of the behemoths, do a quick photo search. Prepare to be impressed because they truly are that amazing.
Final Words: Making the Best Possible Selection
So, where does all of this information leave us? Well, you are now equipped with a full breakdown (minus helicopters) of what your private jet charter options are. Should you have any questions at all, reach out to a reliable charter service. These companies do a great job of matching each traveller and each excursion to the perfect aircraft. Often, they can offer additional services, such as luxury ground transport and catered meals. Champagne, anyone? Simply ask and it shall be yours.
There’s no valid reason as to why flying cannot be fun. Private travel strips away all of the things that we do not like about commercial travel and replaces them with luxury experiences fit for a king or queen. In wrapping this up, a warning must be issued. Once you charter your very first private jet, you’ll never again want to revert to commercial air travel. That’s perfectly fine, though. Life is too short not to experience the finest that it has to offer!
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