Exploring the 8 Most Popular Charter Jets
There are many different options to choose from when you charter a private jet, from those with the basics to fully loaded aircraft with more seating capacity and a broad range of amenities. At ELEVATE, we’ll always present you with different options to choose from.
Which private jet you choose depends on your budget, the number of people traveling with you, the distance to your destination, and even whether you want to relax or be productive while in the air.
It can be confusing, especially if you’re making the switch from first-class with the airlines to a private charter for the first time. Exploring these eight popular charter jets will give you an overview and help you decide which aircraft meets all your needs.
Bombardier Challenger 300/350
There are hundreds of the Bombardier Challenger 300/350 aircraft in service, and it’s no mystery as to why. This super-midsize jet is extremely comfortable and agile. It can fly up to 3,200 nautical miles (nm) non-stop, making it the perfect jet for a business with bi-coastal offices. Top companies around the world consistently choose the Challenger 300 series as their business aircraft. The cabin has exceptional craftsmanship; its leather ergonomic seating, fold-out tables, and large windows ensure that you travel comfortably.
Need to get work done? The Bombardier Challenger 300 series delivers an environment ideal for productivity, with Wi-Fi and a quiet cabin.
Cessna Citation X
If you need to get somewhere quickly, consider booking a flight on a Cessna Citation X. It has a maximum cruising speed of 700mph and holds up to 8 passengers. The cabin provides leather seating that reclines, so you can sleep while flying or use that time to get work done with the stowaway tables.
Either way, the Citation X will get you to your destination fast, even from the East to West Coast, thanks to its ability to fly 3,400 nm non-stop. Its speed allows it to shave as much as an hour off the typical coast-to-coast flight.
Pilatus PC-24
Are you flying to a secluded area? Booking the Pilatus PC-24 might be a good option thanks to its ability to land and take off on shorter and even unimproved runways. This light jet can access runways that larger aircraft can’t.
But its smaller stature doesn’t mean it can’t deliver. It has a seating capacity of up to 8 passengers and can accommodate larger cargo, too. A rear cargo area can handle a standard pallet of oversized items and luggage. It has a non-stop flying capability of 2,000 nm.
Gulfstream G650ER
If you need to fly internationally without refueling, check out the Gulfstream G650ER. This ultra-long-haul jet, owned by many celebrities, can travel up to 7,500 nm. Four separate living areas in the cabin each have their own climate control with room for a galley and crew rest area as well. Each plush seat has an oversized oval window, giving you an eye on the world, with seating for up to 18 people depending on the aircraft.
You’ll fly redeyes in comfort thanks to 6 available spacious flat beds. The Gulfstream G650ER has a maximum speed of Mach .09, holding a record for the farthest, fastest flight.
Embraer Phenom 300
The Embraer Phenom 300 is a super- light jet with the ability to seat up to 8 passengers comfortably. Despite its classification as a light jet, the cabin is roomier than most in its class, with ergonomic seating and pull-out tables to work or dine. The Phenom can fly almost 2,000 nm non-stop, and thanks to its smaller size, it can reach exclusive destinations. This is one of the most popular “light jets” flying today.
Bombardier Learjet 45
The Learjet family, one of the oldest names in private aircraft, will take you back to the days of Sinatra, and there are still hundreds of aircraft, albeit newer and stretched models such as the Lear 45, in use throughout the world. Few light jets can seat 8 people comfortably in a two double-club seating configuration like the Lear 45. It might not have the overall spaciousness of larger private jets, but it still offers the amenities and comforts alongside its nostalgia. The Learjet 45 “XR” (short for extended range) flies up to 1,700 nm non-stop.
Bombardier Challenger 604/605/850
If you need to travel with a large group in style, the Bombardier Challenger 604/605 and 850 jets are among the large cabin leaders. The 850’s cabin permits the greatest flexibility. You can charter the Challenger 604/605 for up to 12 people or the Challenger 850 for 15 or more. While its competitor, the Gulfstream IV series, has a longer cabin that can accommodate separate seating areas, the Challenger’s is wider.
Embraer Praetor 600
The Embraer Praetor 600 offers impressive performance overall, with the capability to fly 3,900 nm non-stop and reach a top speed of 625 mph. The cabin of this super mid-size jet ranges from eight club seats to 10. If you need to conduct business while onboard, the Praetor 600 typically comes with Wi-Fi capability and stowable workstations.
Booking your first charter
After exploring some of the most popular charter aircraft, you might be ready to say goodbye to long lines at the airport and book your first charter flight. Here’s a step-by-step guide to skipping the airport terminal chaos and flying privately. and if you have questions about how it all works, we’ve written this helpful guide.
Request a private air charter Quote
We’ll help you find an aircraft that suits your needs. It’s helpful to have your travel dates, number of passengers, and the locations you’re traveling to and from when you’re booking. And if your travel dates are flexible, we can usually save you some money too. Use the link below to begin!
About how we Quote
We always offer competitive pricing. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Shorter trips to popular destinations are typically more inexpensive. If you’re flying to remote locations in exclusive areas, the quote could be higher.
The distance you travel, coupled with the size of the aircraft, helps to determine the charter price. If you don’t mind a smaller aircraft, a long-distance flight that involves a fuel stop may be more cost-effective than flying on a larger aircraft. Also keep in mind that newer planes will cost more to charter by the hour, than older ones.
If your preferred jet needs to relocate from its home base to your local airport, positioning costs may come into play. We’ll generally look for aircraft that are conveniently located to keep the price low.
Consider sharing the price of the charter with friends to keep the trip more cost-effective.
Booking
After we send you our quote, you’ll have the opportunity to browse the available aircraft that are most suitable for your travel needs.
Private Jet Reservations
Using this guide to the most popular charter jets can help you decide which aircraft is best for your next trip. Book private jet reservations with ELEVATE and explore our blogs to learn more about popular charter jet destinations, aircraft, and timely information to help you plan your next trip!
