Selecting the Perfect Private Jet for Your Travel Needs

When it comes to private jet travel, selecting the proper aircraft to charter is far from “one size fits all.” Private jet cabin classes typically fall into five main categories: Light, Midsize, Super Midsize, Large-Cabin, and Ultra-Long-Range. Let’s explore the ins and outs of each type of cabin class and their advantages in the below private jet booking guide. 

Flying on a private charter affords travelers increased flexibility and convenience when compared with commercial flying, but the amount of choices can be overwhelming. When booking, key factors to consider are the number of people in your party and the distance to your destination. Each of these is essential to knowing what type of business jet works for you. 

There are five main cabin classes: light, midsize, super midsize, large cabin, and ultra-long range. Each is designed to fit specific travel requirements. 

Light private jets are the typical “executive jet,” offering a cost-effective solution for those who prioritize speed and flexibility. They are the best private jet for short flights, designed for business travelers who need to do regular city-to-city hops like New York to D.C. or Boston to Atlanta. Light jets have a range of about 700 – 2,000 miles and can seat up to seven passengers. The Citation Ultra, part of the Vista Members’ fleet, is outfitted with all-leather seats, so private travelers can relax in maximum comfort. 

Midsize business jets are designed for up to eight private flyers to travel in comfort. They have a top speed of approximately 575 mph and a range of about 1,786 – 2,600 miles. One of the most prominent private jets in this category is the Cessna Citation XL, which can fly in and out of many smaller airports while offering plenty of room for as many as 7 passengers. 

This is a very popular class of private jet, ideal for intermediate to large groups of passengers. They are designed to fly between routes in the 3,500 – 4,000-mile range, making them ideal for trips like Boston to LA or Seattle to Tampa. Super Midsize jets can accommodate up to nine passengers. Notable aircraft in this category include the Cessna Citation X and the Bombardier Challenger 350, which provides private flyers with access to more airports than any other private aircraft in its cabin class. 

Large-cabin jets are designed for flyers that tend to fly with many passengers, comfortably seating up to 14 people. If you wish to fly internationally or coast-to-coast nonstop, this is the business aircraft for you to book. Large-cabin aircraft can achieve speeds of nearly 650mph, and have more than a 5,000-mile range, with the ability to fly non-stop from New York to Paris or Los Angeles to Moscow. The most popular private aircraft in this category is the Gulfstream GIV-SP, ideal for maximum comfort and speed. Its sophisticated interior layout is perfect for both business trips and private jet vacations. Another standout in the large-cabin category is the Bombardier Global 5000, featuring a three-zone cabin and the capability to fly up to 11 hours non-stop.  

The best private aircraft for non-stop intercontinental flights, ultra-long-range private jets feature flexible cabin configurations with separate sections for conducting business, dining, entertainment, and in some cases, sleeping. Up to 14 passengers can enjoy the spacious aircraft in this cabin class.  

Notable private jets in this segment include the Bombardier Global 6000 and Bombardier Global 7500, the largest and longest-range business jet. Featuring four separate living sections, the Global 7500 can travel for up to 17 hours without stopping, providing more efficient travel between high-demand routes including the US West Coast to Asia, and New York to Tokyo, the Caribbean, Rio, or Dubai. 

It is important for private flyers to understand the differences between these categories when booking a private getaway, as well as have access to different cabin classes in case their needs change. Companies like XO are fantastic options that suit diverse private travel needs. 

Part of Vista, the world’s leading global business aviation company, covering 96% of the world, XO offers access to one of the most extensive fleets in the industry from light jets to ultra-long-range aircraft, including the unrivaled Vista Members’ fleet. 

XO can always provide the perfect plane for your chosen destination. Aviation experts and client services teams can be reached around the clock in all time zones to guide your choices and individually tailor each flight experience.