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If you or your company are in the market for a new aircraft, you’ll want to consider the light jet class. Previously, we’ve discussed the benefits of piston airplanes and turboprops, but light jets are growing in popularity and have become one of the most popular styles of aircraft for business use, with roughly one-third of privately owned aircraft classified as light jets.
Light jets and their slightly smaller cousins, very light jets (VLJs), excel in cost-effectiveness and operational flexibility for business travel and personal use. The market for light jets is projected to continue growing significantly in the coming years.
What Is a Light Jet?
Light jets—sometimes called simply “private jets” or “small cabin jets”—are versatile aircraft, capable of flying higher and faster than turboprops. Specifications and capabilities vary depending on the model model, but light jets are typically made for no more than eight passengers, have a range of 1,200 to 2,500 miles, and have cruising speeds of 400-plus knots.
Benefits of Owning a Light Jet
For both business and personal use, light jets boast incredible utility. High speeds, high altitude capability, relatively low operating costs, and short-field takeoff and landing performance mean that they can do just about anything a business owner or team of executives might need on a regular basis.
Access to small airports, continent-spanning range, and the ability to fly higher than many weather patterns mean that there are few situations where a light jet can’t transport a small team or family to and from any destination.
Not to mention, light jets tend to be a significantly smaller investment than larger classes of aircraft, with prices ranging from roughly $2 million to $10 million—well within the budget for many businesses to finance if travel is a regular expense.
A light jet is likely the solution for you if you regularly make short to medium-range trips, travel with small groups (and don’t transport much luggage or equipment), and need to reach smaller airports to get close to your usual destinations.
Recommended Models
The Embraer Phenom 100 is considered a VLJ, with a normal capacity of just four passengers (although it can be configured to seat six but not in ideal arrangements). Designed for missions up to 1,200 miles, the aircraft is well regarded as an excellent balance of comfort and efficiency for a small team.
Despite its size, this jet has best-in-class baggage space, which means it’s one of the best options for an individual or family to take on world tours.
The Citation M2 is ideal for medium-range missions of 1,200 to 1,500 miles. With space for up to eight passengers, the aircraft can handle slightly larger groups with greater flexibility for range and speed.
Cessna is an iconic, trusted manufacturer of aircraft with a dedicated community of owners and technicians.
The HondaJet Elite II is a cutting-edge model and a new favorite for short flights. This light jet accommodates five passengers and is well renowned for its comfort, fuel efficiency, and speed, with a cruising speed of 422 knots and a range of 1,547 miles.
Likewise, the over-wing engine means the aircraft has exceptional aerodynamics and a cabin environment.
If you’re looking to finance a light jet or any other aircraft, FLYING Finance can help you lock in a fixed-rate loan now while rates are low. Our team provides flexible financing options tailored for aviation, and we can help walk you through every step of the process.
Reach out today, so you don’t miss out on the best rates.
