March 6, 2025

A Comprehensive Guide to Charter Aircraft: Types, Ranges, and Costs

Chartering an aircraft provides flexibility, convenience, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for business executives, celebrities, and luxury travelers. However, with a vast array of charter aircraft available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this guide, we explore the various types of charter aircraft, their categories, flight ranges, cabin space, passenger capacities, and estimated costs.

Categories of Charter Aircraft

Charter aircrafts are typically categorized into the following groups:

  1. Turboprops
  2. Very Light Jets (VLJs)
  3. Light Jets
  4. Super Light Jets
  5. Midsize Jets
  6. Super Midsize Jets
  7. Heavy Jets
  8. Ultra-Long-Range Jets
  9. Executive Airliners

Each category serves different travel needs based on range, passenger capacity, and budget.

1. Turboprops

Turboprops are propeller-driven aircraft powered by turbine engines. They are ideal for short regional flights and can land on shorter runways, making them perfect for remote locations.

  • Popular Models: Beechcraft King Air 350, Pilatus PC-12, Cessna Caravan
  • Range: 800–1,800 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 5–9 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Compact, with basic amenities
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $1,200 — $2,500

2. Very Light Jets (VLJs)

VLJs are small, efficient jets that offer the speed of a jet with lower operating costs. They are best suited for short-haul trips.

  • Popular Models: Cessna Citation Mustang, Embraer Phenom 100, HondaJet
  • Range: 1,200–1,500 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 4–6 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Small, but comfortable for short trips
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $2,000 — $3,500

3. Light Jets

Light jets provide more space and comfort than VLJs, making them a great choice for business travelers.

  • Popular Models: Learjet 45, Cessna Citation CJ3, Embraer Phenom 300
  • Range: 1,500–2,200 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 6–8 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Comfortable with small lavatory
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $6,000–$6,500

4. Super Light Jets

Super light jets bridge the gap between light jets and midsize jets, offering enhanced performance and comfort.

  • Popular Models: Embraer Phenom 300E, Cessna Citation XLS, Learjet 75
  • Range: 1,800–2,500 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 7–9 passengers
  • Cabin Space: More spacious than light jets, often with a full lavatory
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $6,500 — $7,000

5. Midsize Jets

Midsize jets offer a balance of range, speed, and cabin comfort, making them suitable for cross-country flights.

  • Popular Models: Hawker 800XP, Cessna Citation XLS, Learjet 60
  • Range: 2,000–3,000 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 7–9 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Spacious with stand-up room and enclosed lavatory
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $7,000 — $8,000

6. Super Midsize Jets

Super midsize jets provide more range and luxury features, such as better cabin pressurization and high-speed internet.

  • Popular Models: Challenger 350, Gulfstream G280, Citation Sovereign
  • Range: 3,200–3,800 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 8–12 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Spacious with luxury seating
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $8,900 — $9,200

7. Heavy Jets

Heavy jets are designed for long-haul travel with luxurious amenities, including full galleys and private sleeping areas.

  • Popular Models: Gulfstream G450, Bombardier Challenger 650, Dassault Falcon 2000
  • Range: 4,000–6,500 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 10–16 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Large cabins with reclining seats, entertainment systems, and full lavatories
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $11,000— $12,000

8. Ultra-Long-Range Jets

Ultra-long-range jets provide intercontinental travel with the highest levels of luxury and performance.

  • Popular Models: Gulfstream G650ER, Bombardier Global 7500, Dassault Falcon 8X
  • Range: 6,500–7,500 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 12–19 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Ultra-luxurious with fully reclining beds, private suites, and conference areas
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $10,000 — $18,000

9. Executive Airliners

Executive airliners, also known as VIP airliners, are converted commercial jets offering the pinnacle of luxury travel.

  • Popular Models: Boeing Business Jet (BBJ), Airbus ACJ320, Embraer Lineage 1000
  • Range: 6,000–8,000 miles
  • Passenger Capacity: 20–50 passengers
  • Cabin Space: Multiple rooms, including bedrooms, conference rooms, and full kitchens
  • Typical Cost Per Hour: $15,000 — $25,000

Choosing the Right Charter Aircraft

When selecting an aircraft for charter, consider:

  • Flight Distance: Shorter flights may be cost-effective with turboprops, while longer flights require midsize or heavy jets.
  • Passenger Count: Ensure the aircraft can accommodate your group comfortably.
  • Amenities: Some aircraft offer Wi-Fi, beds, and private suites.
  • Budget: Costs vary significantly based on aircraft type and route.

Chartering an aircraft ensures a tailored flying experience, whether for business or luxury travel. At VOMOS, we work with you to understand your needs, ensuring you have the perfect aircraft that best matches your requirements. With incomparable customer service and competitive pricing, we make private aviation seamless and enjoyable.

Scroll to Top