Comparing the Top Private Jets by Category 

Every year, more people purchase private jets. The trend isn’t expected to reverse any time soon. 

The statistics tell the story. In 2020, the business jet market was worth more than $24 billion. By 2028, experts believe the market will be worth $37 billion

Types of Private Jets 

There are nearly 15,000 private jets in the United States and many more across the globe. As a shopper, you’re not required to look at each one. Instead, you can drill down to a category that meets your needs.

This chart can help you see how jet categories differ at a glance. Keep reading to learn even more about each one.

jet category	passenger capacity	range (Miles)	Speed (mph)	typical price range
Very Light Jets (VLJs)	2-4	~1,200 to 1,500 miles	~355-425 mph	$2 to $5M
Light Jets	5-8	~1,800–2,200 miles	~460–515 mph	$5 to $11M
Midsize Jets	6-9	~2,300–3,200 miles	~495–540 mph	$9 to $18M
Super Midsize Jets	8-12	~3,500–4,200 miles	~530–610 mph	$16 to $30M
Heavy Jets	10-16	~5,000–6,500 miles	~555–585 mph	~555–585 mph
Ultra-Long-Range & Business Jets	12-20+	~6,500–8,500+ miles	~575–645 mph	$50M to $100M+

Very Light Jets 

A very light jet (VLJ) is ideal for short trips with few passengers. They can take off from short runways, so they can move between unconventional airports with ease. 

These jets are designed for short hops, so they don’t have many amenities. For example, you won’t find big kitchens and large dining spaces. However, the seats are more comfortable than those found in a commercial plane. 

While you can bring luggage on a very light jet, space is limited. That means bulky things like golf clubs or child strollers can’t come on the flight. 

Here’s what you need to know about this jet classification:

• Distance: About 1,200 to 1,500 miles (1,930 to 2,410 km) 
• Capacity: 2 to 4 passengers 
• Cost: $2 to $5 million 
• Comfort: Compact and efficient for short trips; limited baggage space and amenities. Best for 2 to 3 passengers.
• Most popular models: Cirrus Vision Jet SF50, Eclipse 550, HondaJet Elite II

Light Jets 

Light jets are ideal for small teams that need to go moderate distances per trip. Jets like this allow for collaboration and connectivity during the flight, so everyone can keep working. 

Families appreciate light jets too. Their moderate size means the whole family (including pets) can come on board and share the experience. 

Light jets offer more space than those in the VLJ category, and they often provide refreshment centers and a small onboard bathroom. 

Here’s what you need to know about this jet classification:

• Distance: About 1,800 to 2,200 miles (2,900 to 3,540 km)
• Capacity: 5 to 8 passengers 
• Cost: $5 to $11 million 
• Comfort: More cabin room, small lavatory, and limited refreshment centers. Comfortable for regional travel.
• Most popular models: Embraer Phenom 300E, Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2, HondaJet 2600

Midsize Jets 

People who need more space than light jets and VLJs can provide will appreciate midsize versions. These jets can seat up to 9 passengers, and with plenty of space for luggage, there’s no reason to leave bulky items (like golf clubs) behind. 

Midsize jets can travel up to 1,000 miles farther than their smaller counterparts. During the flight, passengers can stand up and walk around due to the extra headspace. They also have more space inside the onboard bathrooms. 

Jets in this classification are a top choice for those who combine business and leisure into one trip. You could schedule a flight for a corporate meeting, for example, and bring the family and all of your luggage for a few days of rest. 

Here’s what you need to know about this jet classification:

• Distance: About 2,300 to 3,200 miles (3,700 to 5,150 km)
• Capacity: 6 to 9 passengers
• Cost: $9 to $18 million 
• Comfort: Stand-up cabins, enclosed lavatories, better baggage capacity. Great for mid-range flights.
• Most popular models: Cessna Citation Latitude, Embraer Praetor 500, Gulfstream G150

Super Midsize Jets 

Super midsize jets can travel almost twice as far as VLJs, making them an exceptional choice for people who need to tackle coast-to-coast or even intercontinental flights. Their extensive range and speed make booking these trips a snap. 

While onboard, up to 12 people can travel in exceptional comfort. These jets have very large cabins that allow for stand-up travel. They also have full kitchens, so guests can have complete meals in addition to standard snacks. 

Since jets in this class are so large, they’re often staffed with flight attendants. Guests can also bring a large amount of luggage onboard, and pets are usually welcome. 

Here’s what you need to know about this jet classification:

• Distance: About 3,500 to 4,200 miles (5,630 to 6,760 km) 
• Capacity: 8 to 12
• Cost: $16 to $30 million 
• Comfort: Spacious cabins with full stand-up room, full galleys, and better soundproofing. Ideal for cross-country trips.
• Most popular models: Gulfstream G280, Bombardier Challenger 3500, Cessna Citation Longitude

Heavy Jets 

Jets in this category are quite large, making them ideal for groups of up to 16 passengers. Their large size allows each person to bring plenty of luggage on the trip. People who buy these jets may use them for corporate getaways or large family gatherings. 

While heavy jets are slower than the other types we’ve mentioned previously, they can also stay in the air for longer periods. With a range of up to 6,500 miles, they’re capable of tackling intercontinental trips with ease. 

While onboard, passengers can access gourmet meals prepared in a large galley, relax on comfortable seats, and clean up in full-sized bathrooms. Some heavy jets even offer sleeping areas for overnight trips. 

Here’s what you need to know about this jet classification:

• Distance: About 5,000 to 6,500 miles (8,050 to 10,460 km)
• Capacity: 10 to 16 passengers 
• Cost: $25 to $65 million 
• Comfort: High ceilings, private lavatory, divans, full galleys. Luxury feel, suited for transoceanic travel.
• Most popular models: Gulfstream G600, Dassault Falcon 8X, Bombardier Challenger 650

Ultra-Long-Range Jets 

People who need to fly more than 8,500 miles before refueling should choose ultra-long-range jets. Aircraft in this group can handle very long flights, and since they’re faster than heavy jets, you’ll get to your destination in no time. 

These jets can take up to 20 passengers, but a smaller load can mean a more luxurious trip. Jets often come with private suites for resting and relaxing. Bathrooms are equipped with showers and plenty of space for cleanups. And the big kitchens mean full meals are always an option. 

For many people, a jet in this classification becomes a home-away-from-home during a long flight. Robust connectivity and exceptional soundproofing mean holding meetings is easy, and when it’s time for sleep, a full bedroom awaits. 

Here’s what you need to know about this jet classification:

• Distance: About 6,500 to 8,500+ miles (10,460 to 13,680+ km)
• Capacity: 12 to more than 20 passengers 
• Cost: $50 to $100 million or more 
• Comfort: Ultimate comfort with private suites, showers, large galleys, and full connectivity. True intercontinental travel.
• Most popular models: Gulfstream G700, Bombardier Global 7500, Dassault Falcon 10X

Looking to Purchase or Lease a Private Jet?

Skip the hassles of commercial travel and step into a world of luxury with a private jet.

At Element Aviation, we’re revolutionizing jet travel for people just like you. We can help you lease a jet for your exclusive use, or we can help you buy the aircraft of your dreams.