Every private jet offers a luxurious experience, especially compared to commercial flights. But the actual amenities available can vary drastically, depending on the size of the aircraft.
Choosing the right jet for your next trip means more than counting seats and ensuring all passengers can sit down. Smart travelers also understand the experience the jet can offer, and they ensure their aircraft can meet their expectations.
What Private Jets Can Offer: Common Amenities & Features
Private jets are increasingly popular in the United States, and comfort is a major factor for those who choose this mode of travel.
Amenities that most can offer include the following:
- Comfortable, adjustable seats
- Entertainment systems
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- USB outlets
- Adjustable cabin temperatures
- Configurable cabins (including conference rooms or lounge setups)
Flying on a private jet is very different from flying commercial. Your aircraft may have high-end finishes, custom lighting, leather interiors, and bespoke design. You may also have lower-altitude pressurization options for a more comfortable trip. Private jets are also quiet, so your flight will be easier on your ears.
What’s considered “standard” in a jet can vary from company to company, of course. But most offer an experience that’s miles away from what you’ll encounter on a commercial flight.
Common Interior Features by Jet Size
Larger jets have more room, and they’re more likely to include amenities that lead to a comfortable trip over long distances. Smaller jets may not have the same suite of options.
This table can help you understand what each size classification typically provides passengers:
| jet class | passengers | cabin height | lavatory | galley | flight attendant |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Very Light | 4-5 | ~4.5 ft (Seated only) | Emergency (Curtain) | Basic (Snacks/Drinks) | No |
| Light | 6-8 | ~4.8 ft (Crouch) | Enclosed (Small) | Mini (Cold storage) | No |
| Midsize | 7-9 | ~5.8 ft (Stand-up*) | Fully Enclosed | Partial (Warming oven) | No (Usually) |
| Super Midsize | 8-10 | ~6.0 ft (Stand-up) | Spacious Enclosed | Full (Hot meals) | Occasionally |
| Heavy/Long Range | 10-16 | ~6.2+ ft (Full Stand) | Large (Diff. Zones) | Full Kitchen | Yes (Standard) |
| Ultra Long Range | 14-16 | ~6.5 ft (Spacious) | Multiple + Shower | Full Kitchen | Yes (Standard) |
Very Light Jets (VLJs)
A very light jet (VLJ) is considered an entry-level category in private aviation. It offers a small cabin, minimal amenities, and seating for up to six people (depending on the layout). A typical aircraft in this class is the Cirrus Vision Jet (SF50).
Typical amenities in VLJs include the following:
- Basic seating
- Limited baggage space
- Minimal or basic lavatory
These jets are designed for quick hops, so they often don’t offer catering. You may be expected to stay in your seat during the flight instead of walking around a large cabin. You also can’t bring a lot of luggage with you.
Light Jets
A light jet is a step up from a VLJ. This kind of aircraft offers more cabin space, and it’s capable of flying over longer distances. Up to seven passengers can fit in this aircraft (depending on the layout). A typical aircraft in this class is the Embraer Phenom 300E.
Typical amenities in light jets include the following:
- Reclining seats
- Modest refreshment centers
- Limited baggage space
- Enclosed lavatory
This type of aircraft has a compact interior, but it offers more baggage space and interior luxury than VLJs. It’s an ideal choice for short-to-medium flights where speed is a priority rather than optimal comfort. Flyers shouldn’t expect a big cabin or high-end luxury features.
Light jets are a great choice for people taking a flight that lasts a few hours. For example, if you’re heading to the Bahamas for a weekend getaway, a light jet can get you there in style and comfort, and you won’t pay for amenities you can’t take advantage of during such a short trip.
Midsize Jets
A midsize jet offers more cabin space and range compared to the other jets we’ve discussed. This type of aircraft seats up to nine passengers (depending on the layout), and the larger cabin size means better seating and increased comfort during the trip. A typical aircraft in this class is the Cessna Citation Latitude.
Typical amenities in midsize jets include the following:
- Comfortable, spacious seating
- Enclosed lavatory
- Functional galley or refreshment center
- Increased baggage space
- Internet connectivity
Midsize jets are often considered a balanced choice for the standard traveler. They’re capable of longer trips (including some transcontinental flights), and their additional headroom and legroom mean a comfortable experience for passengers. They’re less expensive than larger aircraft while providing a luxurious experience.
Super-Midsize Jets
Super-midsize jets bridge the gap between midsize jets and large-cabin jets, offering significantly more cabin space, range, and amenities than their smaller counterparts, with more flexibility than the larger versions. A typical aircraft in this class is the Bombardier Challenger 3500.
Typical amenities in super-midsize jets include the following:
- Large cabins you can walk through
- Large baggage/storage capacity
- Comfortable seating arrangements
- Enclosed, upscale lavatory
Aircraft in this class can bring a more luxurious feeling to your trip, although they don’t provide all of the perks and benefits of a heavy jet.
They’re ideal for people who want an extended range without committing to the size or complexity of a heavy jet. In return for a lower cost, you’ll have less space and potentially fewer baggage options than a heavy cabin might provide.
Heavy/Long-Range Jets
A heavy/long-range jet is designed for extended use on lengthy trips, providing the maximum comfort and space for up to 16 passengers (depending on the configuration). A typical aircraft in this class is the Gulfstream G550.
Typical amenities in heavy/long-range jets include the following:
- Stand-up cabins with generous space
- Multiple zones (such as lounge spaces, dining areas, and meeting rooms)
- Full-service galley or kitchen
- Enclosed, spacious lavatory
- Ample storage and baggage capacity
- Premium interior finishes
- Flight attendant service
These jets are ideal for intercontinental or long-distance flights for a large group. Clients who value privacy, comfort, and service also enjoy these jets. They are more expensive, and they can come with runway limitations, but these tradeoffs can be acceptable for the discerning traveler.
Ultra-Long-Range Jets
Ultra-long-range jets are top-tier options that provide the maximum range. They’re capable of global, intercontinental, or transoceanic travel for up to 19 passengers.
Often, they’re highly customizable and come with VIP interiors to suit high-end family or corporate travel needs. An example of a jet in this class is the Bombardier Global 8000.
Typical amenities of ultra-long-range jets include the following:
- Multiple cabin zones (such as sleeping areas, meeting rooms, and workstations)
- Fully functional galley or kitchen
- Luxurious and spacious lavatories
- Extensive baggage and storage capacity
- Top-end finishes and interiors
These jets offer a mobile private residence with all the amenities you might expect from a hotel or apartment.
They’re capable of traveling long distances, but their size can mean more complex logistics and planning requirements when compared to smaller jets. They can also be more expensive.
When clients step onto a jet in this class for the first time, they’re always impressed by the space. These are really large jets that look a lot like apartments inside. Some people don’t want to get off the aircraft when the flight is over because the experience is just so comfortable.
How to Choose the Right Jet Features
Every jet is different, and it’s smart to think about amenities while planning your trip.
These are good factors to consider:
- Length of the flight
- Number of passengers
- Amount of cargo space you’ll need
- Budget for the flight
- Airport or runway limitations
For example, if you’re planning a short, regional flight for two, a very light or light jet could be just right. If your plans change and you suddenly need to travel internationally and bring several business partners along, a heavy jet might be better.
Element Aviation Matches the Jet to the Mission
Luxury in private aviation is relative. What’s luxurious on a very light jet may be basic on a heavy jet. The best jet for your trip is one that aligns with your needs and priorities.
Book a consultation with a broker/charter specialist who can match your trip profile with the appropriate aircraft.
Join Element’s Elite Access Membership program and save on your next flight. Reach out to us today with any questions.
Fact Checked & Reviewed By:
Chris Blanchard has spent more than two decades in the private aviation industry. He began his career with an on-demand charter operator and played a critical role in transforming a small operation into one of the largest and most successful in the country. His experience and commitment to excellence make him a trusted innovator in the field of private aviation.
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Last modified 14 Jan 2026