Before you select an aircraft for your next trip, it’s important to understand the differences between the various private jet categories. In particular, important details like where you’re traveling to and how many passengers are flying with you should be factored in by your private travel provider to determine which aircraft is the right fit for your mission. Use this guide to learn about the different categories and how they can impact your travel experience.
Private Jet Aircraft Categories: Understanding The Differences
HEAVY
Ideal for business travel and intercontinental flights, heavy jets provide the ultimate in comfort and luxury. Aircraft like the Gulfstream 450 and Falcon 2000 have long-range capabilities and offer large cabin space configured to keep businesses productive and help guests relax. Overall, the high performance and capabilities of heavy jets make them the perfect choice for lengthy trips.
Flight Time Range: Depending on the number of passengers onboard, a heavy jet can fly approximately 4.6-8.6 hours before needing a fuel stop.
Passenger Seating: Heavy jets can typically accommodate 4-12 passengers.
Aircraft Examples: Gulfstream 450/550, Gulfstream IV, Falcon 2000
SUPER MID
Built for speed and power, super mid jets are the optimal choice for flying across the continent in comfort. Aircraft like the Challenger 300 and Citation X feature not only wide, roomy cabins and luggage space, but also a level of fuel efficiency unmatched by other private jet categories. If you’re considering traveling coast to coast with a larger group, a super mid may be your best option.
Flight Time Range: Depending on the number of passengers onboard, a super mid jet can fly approximately 4.7-6 hours before needing a fuel stop.
Passenger Seating: Super mid jets can typically accommodate 4-8 passengers.
Aircraft Examples: Challenger 300/350, Citation X, Gulfstream G200/280
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MID
Although mid jets aren’t the fastest or most powerful of the private jet categories, they are ideal for certain missions. Aircraft like the Hawker 800XP and Citation XL offer less cabin space than super mid jets, as they were created to serve smaller groups traveling shorter distances. Consider booking a mid-sized option for relatively quick trips like West Palm Beach to Nantucket.
Flight Time Range: Depending on the number of passengers onboard, a mid jet can fly approximately 3.8-4.3 hours before needing a fuel stop.
Passenger Seating: Mid jets can typically accommodate 2-7 passengers.
Aircraft Examples: Hawker 800XP, Citation XL/XLS
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LIGHT
Small but fast, light jets are the perfect aircraft for business executives and guests on the go. Featuring smaller cabins and shorter range capabilities, aircraft like the Hawker 400XP and Phenom 300 were built to serve quick hop missions, like New York to Washington D.C. Consider a light jet option for small groups on city-to-city trips.
Flight Time Range: Depending on the number of passengers onboard, a light jet can fly approximately 2.3-3.4 hours before needing a fuel stop.
Passenger Seating: Light jets can typically accommodate 2-6 passengers.
Aircraft Examples: Hawker 400XP, Phenom 300
