With thousands of private aircraft options out there, why settle for the first one you find? When your journey is long-haul, arriving refreshed is everything. This is where heavy jets excel, offering unparalleled space and amenities. But not all are created equal. We'll explore the most popular private planes in this premier category. Knowing the key differences helps you select the best aircraft for heavy jet charter, ensuring your time in the air is as productive and comfortable as your time on the ground.
Let’s examine the most popular 2021 private jets...
Why More Travelers Are Choosing Private Jets
The landscape of air travel is changing. For many, the convenience and predictability that once defined flying have been replaced by a new reality of long lines, unexpected delays, and the persistent worry of lost luggage. As commercial airports contend with workforce shortages and packed terminals, a growing number of travelers are looking for a better way to get from point A to point B. This shift isn't just about luxury; it's about reclaiming control over your time and travel experience. Flying private offers a solution that sidesteps the common frustrations of commercial travel, turning the journey itself into a seamless and productive part of your trip.
Choosing to fly private means you operate on your schedule, not an airline's. It means arriving at a private terminal just minutes before takeoff and having the aircraft and its crew dedicated entirely to your trip. This level of personalization and efficiency is why more business leaders and discerning vacationers are making private aviation their preferred mode of transport. It transforms travel from a necessary hassle into a comfortable and efficient experience, allowing you to arrive at your destination refreshed and ready, whether it's for a critical business meeting or the start of a well-deserved holiday.
The Appeal of Bypassing Commercial Airports
The single greatest advantage of private aviation is the ability to completely bypass the chaos of commercial airport terminals. Imagine a travel day without the two-hour-early arrival mandate, winding security lines, or crowded gates. When you fly private, you use separate, dedicated facilities known as Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs). Here, the check-in process is discreet and takes only a few minutes. You can often drive directly onto the tarmac, where your aircraft awaits. This streamlined process eliminates the primary stress points of modern travel, giving you back hours of your valuable time and ensuring your journey begins and ends with ease and privacy.
How to Access Private Flights
Unlike commercial airlines with fixed schedules, private aviation is built around your specific needs. When you book a private charter, you are essentially renting the entire aircraft and its professional crew for your itinerary. This gives you complete control over your departure times, choice of airports, and onboard experience. There are several popular ways to arrange private flights, each offering a different level of flexibility and commitment. Understanding these options is the first step in finding the perfect solution for your travel patterns, whether you fly a few times a year or a few times a month.
On-Demand Charter
On-demand charter is the most flexible and straightforward way to fly private. You simply book a specific aircraft for a specific trip, with no long-term commitment or upfront investment. This is ideal for those who need to arrange travel for a unique occasion, a family vacation, or an important business trip. With access to a vast network of aircraft, you can often schedule a flight in just a few hours. This model provides the freedom to choose the perfect jet for each mission, whether you need a small, efficient plane for a regional meeting or a larger cabin for an international flight.
Empty-Leg Flights
For travelers with flexible schedules, empty-leg flights present an incredible opportunity. An empty leg is created when a private jet is booked for a one-way trip and needs to return to its home base or fly to its next pickup location without passengers. To avoid flying the plane empty, these flights are offered at a significant discount. While they require some flexibility, as you are booking a pre-determined route, empty legs can make the private jet experience much more accessible. They are a fantastic way to enjoy all the benefits of private travel at a fraction of the typical cost.
Memberships and Jet Cards
For frequent flyers, jet cards and membership programs offer a more structured approach to private aviation. These programs typically involve purchasing a block of flight hours on a specific aircraft category or paying an annual membership fee. In return, members receive benefits like guaranteed aircraft availability, fixed hourly rates, and streamlined booking. While Hangar 7 Aviation focuses on providing exceptional on-demand charter and aircraft management services, understanding the jet card model is helpful for evaluating all your options in the private aviation market. These programs are best suited for those who fly regularly and value predictable pricing and access.
Understanding the Charter Market
The private jet charter market is more accessible than ever before. Thanks to a variety of access models, from on-demand charters to cost-effective empty legs, the efficiency and comfort of private travel are within reach for a broader audience. Businesses are recognizing it as a powerful tool for productivity, allowing teams to visit multiple cities in a single day without the drain of commercial travel. Likewise, families and groups are finding it a surprisingly practical way to travel for special occasions, maximizing their time together in a private and comfortable setting. The market is no longer defined by just one type of traveler; it's a dynamic space for anyone who values their time.
A Guide to Private Jet Classes
When you decide to fly private, one of the first questions you'll encounter is, "What kind of aircraft do you need?" The term "private jet" covers a wide range of aircraft, each designed for a different purpose. They are generally categorized into classes based on size, range, speed, and cabin amenities. Understanding these classes—from light jets perfect for short hops to heavy jets capable of crossing oceans—is key to selecting the right plane for your trip. The choice will depend on how many people are traveling, how far you're going, and what level of comfort you desire. A quick look at a diverse aircraft fleet can give you a great sense of the available options.
Choosing the right jet class ensures your flight is both efficient and enjoyable. A light jet might be the perfect, cost-effective solution for a quick business trip from Miami to Atlanta, while a large group traveling from New York to London would require a heavy jet with intercontinental range and a spacious cabin. Your charter provider can guide you through this selection process, matching your specific itinerary and preferences to the ideal aircraft. This tailored approach guarantees that you aren't paying for more plane than you need, while still enjoying all the amenities and performance required for a perfect flight.
Comparing Light, Midsize, and Heavy Jets
Heavy jets represent the pinnacle of private aviation, offering the ultimate in space, luxury, and performance. These large private planes are designed for long-haul travel, with the ability to fly nonstop for distances ranging from 5,500 to over 8,000 miles. This makes them ideal for transoceanic and intercontinental flights. Inside, you’ll find expansive, multi-zone cabins that can be configured with staterooms, full galleys, and entertainment areas, comfortably accommodating larger groups. In contrast, light and midsize jets are built for regional travel, offering a balance of efficiency and comfort for shorter trips with fewer passengers, making them a popular choice for domestic business and leisure travel.
The Top Turboprop Charter Planes
- PILATUS PC-12/45: The PC-12/45 from Pilatus has proven its popularity as the most flown single-engine turboprop in consecutive years. In 2019, this light passenger plane made 244,217 flights, and kept up an impressive performance during the economic disruption of 2020 with another 209,107 flights. Private charter travelers heavily prefer this high-performing and reliable turboprop for cost-efficient, fast, and comfortable short-to-mid-range travel. However, it’s also incredibly versatile, being utilized for everything from air ambulances to executive transport for up to 8 passengers.
Most Popular Light Jets for Charter
- PHENOM 300 JET: In 2020, the Phenom 300 from Embraer continued its utter dominance among the world’s most popular private jets with nearly 100,000 flights, pacing the rest of the light jet class—just as it had the previous year. In fact, the Phenom 300 has been the most popular light jet in the industry ever since it first took to the skies in 2012. The spacious 17-foot cabin feels larger than a light jet, but it still manages to burn 19% less fuel. Anyone flying charter will enjoy the fastest and longest range among single-pilot business jets in its class.
- CESSNA CITATION CJ3: The Phenom 300 may have more flights, but the Citation CJ3 always had the vote of legendary designer (and former Cessna CEO) Russ Meyer Jr. He always considered CJ3, which was the third iteration of the CJ design, to be his favorite Citation jet. Cessna has called the CJ3 the “largest, fastest, and most advanced aircraft of its kind,” and with its comfortable stretched cabin, powerful engines, incredible fuel efficiency, and fantastic safety record, we’re inclined to agree. It remains incredibly popular with 44,932 flights in the past year, and is still manufactured by Cessna in its CJ3+ variant. Celebrities, athletes, golfers, and NASCAR driver Kevin Harwick are all big fans of this sleek and cost-efficient jet.
Why Choose a Midsize Charter Jet?
- CHALLENGER 300: The widely preferred Challenger 300 series (including the Challenger 350) enjoyed 67,393 flights in 2020, putting it at the front of the pack among midsized and super-midsized private jets. The Challenger 300 is synonymous with cabin space, combining the large-cabin comfort of a heavy jet with the efficient performance of a mid-sized option. If you’re flying charter and looking for a mid-tier option, you’ll love the 20% additional range, 39% additional cabin space, and improved access to short runway airports of the Challenger 300, when compared to any other private charter aircraft in its class.
- DASSAULT FALCON 2000: The versatile Falcon 2000 is the ideal midsize private jet for business trips and small group travel. Even among more recent entries into the category, this classic stands out with legendary reliability and impressively balanced features that propelled it to 15,649 flights in 2020. A strong figure for the pricier midsize category, in which the average hourly rental rate of the Falcon 2000 (just under $5,000) is beyond impressive and sits in the same price range as much smaller jets. More than 550 Falcon 2000 series aircraft remain in service even today, a testament to the longevity and popularity of this exceptionally comfortable and fuel-efficient jet.
Best Aircraft for Heavy Jet Charter
- GULFSTREAM G550: Gulfstream boasts not only the most used large private jet in 2020, but also the top super-long-range private jet in the Gulfstream G550 (according to data recently released by Argus TRAQPak). This aircraft bumped Bombardier for the top spot among large jets, as business and leisure travelers made an impressive 32,246 flights on the G550 in the atypical year that was 2020 (as well as 49,534 back in 2019). The large, versatile cabin space offers both forward and aft layouts that will suit any need—business lounge, hotel room, tour bus, or office in the clouds.
- BOMBARDIER CHALLENGER 604: Bombardier held the record for the most popular private jets within the heavy jet class back in 2019, with 80,313 flights across the models in the Challenger 600 series. While Gulfstream surpassed them over the past year, the 604 is still enormously popular—and for good reason. Variations of this classic model are still heavily deployed for military, business, and private travel around the globe. Among the first business jets to feature a supercritical wing, the Challenger 604 remains one of the best-selling charter aircraft in its class on account of its outstanding track record of reliability, stellar safety record, and a price point that rivals midsize jets. Whether you’re hopping coasts or traveling to an international destination, the Challenger 604 jet can get you to your destination quickly—and in quiet comfort.
What Makes a Jet "Heavy"?
When you hear the term "heavy jet," it refers to a specific class of large private aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of over 60,000 pounds. But what does that really mean for your travel experience? It means more of everything you want in a private flight: more space, more luxury, and significantly more range. These jets are designed for non-stop, long-haul journeys, easily connecting continents without a fuel stop. Inside, you’ll find expansive cabins that can be configured with multiple living areas, full-service galleys, and even private sleeping quarters. This combination of performance and comfort makes them the top choice for international business travel and luxurious personal getaways. You can explore a variety of aircraft in our fleet to see how different models deliver this premium experience.
The Ultra-Long-Range Category
Within the heavy jet class, you'll find the ultra-long-range category—the marathon runners of private aviation. These aircraft are engineered specifically to fly farther than any other business jet, making destinations like New York to Dubai or Los Angeles to Sydney possible in a single, seamless flight. This capability is a game-changer for executives and travelers who need to maximize their time and arrive refreshed and ready for business or leisure. The design of these jets prioritizes not just distance but also passenger comfort over extended flight times, offering quiet cabins and advanced technology to ensure a smooth and restful journey. For anyone planning intercontinental travel, an ultra-long-range jet is the ultimate tool for efficient and comfortable private charter.
Top-Tier Heavy Jet Models
While the heavy jet category is filled with impressive aircraft, a few models consistently stand out as leaders in performance, luxury, and innovation. These are the jets that set the industry standard, combining cutting-edge technology with unparalleled cabin comfort. They are favored by discerning travelers worldwide for their reliability and ability to deliver an exceptional flight experience on any mission, from a cross-country meeting to a multi-leg international tour. Getting to know these top-tier models gives you a better sense of the incredible capabilities available in the private aviation market. Let's look at a few of the aircraft that define the pinnacle of the heavy jet class and are frequently requested for private travel.
Bombardier Global 7500
The Bombardier Global 7500 is often hailed as the pinnacle of private aviation, and for good reason. It boasts the longest range in the industry, capable of flying up to 8,700 nautical miles non-stop. This incredible performance is matched by a cabin experience that is second to none. The Global 7500 is unique for its four distinct living spaces, which can include a full-size bed in a master suite and even an optional stand-up shower. It’s essentially a luxury apartment in the sky, designed for those who refuse to compromise on comfort or capability during long-haul flights. Its thoughtful design and record-breaking range make it a true industry leader.
Gulfstream G650ER
A direct competitor to the Global 7500, the Gulfstream G650ER is another icon of the ultra-long-range category. With a range of 7,500 nautical miles, it connects distant city pairs with ease. The G650ER is famous for its exceptionally spacious and customizable cabin, which can be tailored to an owner’s exact specifications. It also features Gulfstream's signature panoramic oval windows, which flood the cabin with natural light and provide stunning views from 51,000 feet. Renowned for its speed and performance, the G650ER remains one of the most sought-after jets for both business and leisure travelers who demand the best in global air travel.
Dassault Falcon 8X
The Dassault Falcon 8X brings a unique feature to the table: a three-engine design. This configuration provides exceptional performance, particularly for operations at high-altitude airports or on shorter runways, giving it an edge in accessibility. With a range of over 6,450 nautical miles, the Falcon 8X is perfect for long-haul trips and offers one of the largest and quietest cabins in its class. Its versatility and efficiency, combined with the peace of mind that comes with a third engine, make it a popular choice for travelers who need to reach a wide variety of destinations without sacrificing comfort or performance.
Exploring Jumbo Jet Charters
For the ultimate group travel experience, jumbo jet charters offer a level of space and luxury that is simply unmatched. These are commercial-sized aircraft, like a Boeing 747 or an Airbus A380, converted into private flying palaces. Designed to transport large groups—such as corporate teams, sports franchises, or extended families—in absolute comfort, these jets can be configured with boardrooms, private suites, dining areas, and lounges. Flying on a jumbo jet is a truly unique experience, transforming air travel into a memorable event in itself. If you need to move a large number of people for a special occasion or corporate retreat, a jumbo jet charter provides a seamless and impressive solution.
The Cost of Chartering and Owning a Heavy Jet
Understanding the financial commitment involved with heavy jets is a key part of the decision-making process. Whether you choose to charter on-demand or pursue full ownership, these premier aircraft represent a significant investment in your travel efficiency and lifestyle. The costs can be broken down into two main paths: the flexible, per-hour rates of chartering, and the comprehensive costs associated with purchasing and maintaining your own aircraft. Each path offers distinct advantages, and the right choice depends entirely on your travel frequency, budget, and long-term goals. Exploring these options can help you find the most effective way to access this class of aircraft, whether through on-demand flights or full aircraft ownership.
Hourly Charter Rates
Chartering a heavy jet is an excellent way to access its benefits without the long-term commitment of ownership. It provides the flexibility to choose the perfect aircraft for each specific trip. Hourly rates for heavy jets typically range from $8,500 to $16,000, depending on the specific model, age of the aircraft, and flight itinerary. This cost covers the aircraft, crew, and standard operational fees. For travelers who fly frequently but not enough to justify a purchase, chartering is a practical and efficient solution. It’s also worth looking into empty leg flights, which can sometimes offer these incredible jets at a reduced rate for one-way trips.
Purchase and Ownership Costs
For those who fly extensively, purchasing a heavy jet can be a sound investment. The upfront cost for a new heavy jet typically falls between $27 million and $50 million, while ultra-long-range models can range from $63 million to over $80 million. Beyond the purchase price, ownership includes ongoing operational costs such as maintenance, crew salaries, insurance, and hangar space. These complexities are why many owners partner with a professional firm. An aircraft management service handles all the logistical and regulatory details, ensuring your asset is maintained to the highest safety standards and operates efficiently, allowing you to simply enjoy your investment.
A Focus on Safety: Technology and Track Records
Beyond performance and popularity, the most critical factor in any flight is safety. In private aviation, safety isn't just a feature; it's the foundation of the entire experience. Modern private jets are marvels of engineering, equipped with advanced technology and built to meet incredibly strict standards. However, the aircraft itself is only one part of the equation. Choosing a safe private jet is essential, but it's equally important to select a reliable company to fly with. A trustworthy operator will have an unwavering commitment to safety, employ experienced pilots, and maintain their aircraft with meticulous care. This dual focus—on both the machine and the people who manage it—is what creates a truly secure travel environment.
When you fly with a top-tier provider, you can be confident that every detail has been scrutinized. This includes comprehensive pre-flight checks, continuous crew training, and adherence to the highest industry safety protocols. For example, at Hangar 7, our commitment to safety is backed by decades of experience and membership in prestigious aviation organizations that set the bar for operational excellence. We believe that peace of mind is the ultimate luxury, which is why we offer complete transparency into our maintenance and safety procedures. This ensures that when you step aboard, your only focus is on the journey ahead.
Advancements in Aviation Safety
The world of aviation is constantly evolving, with safety at the forefront of every innovation. Today’s aircraft are safer than ever, thanks to decades of research, development, and technological breakthroughs. Modern jets feature redundant systems, meaning there are backups for nearly every critical function, from navigation to flight controls. Advanced weather radar allows pilots to detect and avoid turbulence, while sophisticated communication systems keep the aircraft connected with ground control at all times. These advancements work together to create a multi-layered safety net that protects passengers and crew throughout every phase of flight.
Modern Cockpit Technology
Step into the cockpit of a modern private jet, and you'll find a suite of technology designed to give pilots unparalleled situational awareness. Glass cockpits have replaced traditional analog dials with large, clear digital displays that consolidate flight information, making it easier for pilots to monitor the aircraft's performance. Many jets are also equipped with Enhanced Vision Systems (EVS), which use infrared cameras to see through darkness, fog, and other low-visibility conditions. This technology provides a clear view of the runway and surrounding terrain, significantly improving safety during takeoff and landing.
Aircraft with Exceptional Safety Records
While the industry as a whole is incredibly safe, certain aircraft have earned a reputation for outstanding reliability. The Bombardier Challenger 604, for instance, is a favorite in the charter market not just for its comfort but also for its stellar safety record and dependability. This track record is a testament to its robust design and engineering. When you explore our fleet, you'll find a curated selection of aircraft known for their safety and performance. We choose our jets based on their proven history, ensuring you fly on an aircraft that meets the highest standards of airworthiness.
How to Select the Right Aircraft for Your Trip
With safety as a given, the next step is choosing the perfect aircraft for your specific needs. This might seem like a complex decision, but it’s actually a straightforward process. The right jet for you depends on a few key factors: how far you’re traveling, how many people are flying with you, and what level of comfort you desire. For example, a short trip for a small group might call for a light, efficient jet, while a cross-country flight with colleagues and luggage would be better suited for a spacious heavy jet. These larger aircraft can weigh over 60,000 pounds at takeoff and offer incredible range and amenities.
Understanding the different classes of private jets—light, midsize, and heavy—is the first step. Heavy jets, for example, are ideal for long-haul travel, capable of flying over 6,000 nautical miles without refueling. This makes them perfect for international trips or coast-to-coast journeys. As you think about your trip, consider what will make it most comfortable and efficient for you. Working with an experienced charter provider can simplify this process, as they can present you with the best options based on your unique requirements, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience from start to finish.
Key Considerations for Your Journey
To find the ideal aircraft, start by thinking about your itinerary. Are you planning a quick flight to a nearby city or a long-distance international journey? The range of the aircraft is a primary consideration. Next, consider your passenger list. The number of people in your group will determine the cabin size you need. Don't forget to account for luggage, as this can also influence which aircraft is most suitable. Finally, think about the amenities that matter to you. Do you need Wi-Fi to stay productive, a full galley for in-flight meals, or a cabin that can be configured for sleeping?
A Simple Process for Booking Your Flight
Booking a private jet is easier than you might think. The key is to work with a reputable charter company that prioritizes both safety and customer service. An expert team can guide you through every step, taking the guesswork out of the process. Simply share your travel details—your destination, dates, and number of passengers—and they will handle the rest. At Hangar 7, our charter specialists will listen to your needs and present you with a curated selection of aircraft that are perfectly suited for your trip, ensuring a personalized and stress-free booking experience.
Flying Charter? Book the Most Popular Private Jets in the Industry With Hangar 7!
Our expert team is always ready to help you with suggestions, advice, and guidance as you arrange your travel plans for a comfortable and convenient charter experience. Contact us today to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance do I need to book a private flight? One of the greatest advantages of private charter is its flexibility. While we can often arrange a flight in just a few hours, providing more notice is always beneficial. Booking further in advance typically gives you a wider selection of aircraft and can sometimes lead to more favorable pricing. For major holidays or peak travel seasons, I recommend planning a couple of weeks ahead to ensure you get the exact aircraft you want.
What's the simplest way to understand the difference between light, midsize, and heavy jets? Think of it in terms of your travel plans. Light jets are perfect for shorter, regional trips with a smaller group, like a quick business meeting in a neighboring state. Midsize jets offer more cabin space and can comfortably handle cross-country flights. Heavy jets are the best choice for international travel, offering intercontinental range, spacious multi-zone cabins, and premium amenities for larger groups on long-haul journeys.
Are empty-leg flights a good deal, and what's the catch? Empty-leg flights can be an incredible value, offering the full private jet experience at a significant discount. The "catch" is that you are booking a flight that has a pre-determined route and schedule, as the jet is simply repositioning for its next charter. If your travel plans are flexible and happen to align with an available empty leg, it's a fantastic opportunity. However, for trips where you need to set the specific departure time and destination, a standard on-demand charter is the better fit.
What is actually included in the hourly charter rate? The hourly rate you are quoted for a charter flight is quite comprehensive. It covers the cost of the aircraft itself, the salaries for your professional flight crew, standard in-flight catering and beverages, and all operational fees like fuel and landing charges. The only additional costs would be for special requests, such as premium catering, international fees, or arranging ground transportation.
I'm not an aviation expert. How do I choose the right aircraft? You don't have to be. That's what we're here for. The selection process is a collaborative conversation. You simply tell us about your trip—where you're going, how many people are traveling, and any specific needs you have. From there, our specialists will present you with a curated selection of the most suitable aircraft, explaining the benefits of each option so you can make an informed and confident choice.
Key Takeaways
- Choose your access model based on travel frequency: On-demand charters provide complete flexibility for any trip, while empty-leg flights offer significant savings if your schedule is open, making private travel more accessible.
- Select the right jet class for your itinerary: Consider your passenger count, travel distance, and desired amenities to determine if a light, midsize, or heavy jet is the most efficient and comfortable choice for your specific mission.
- Prioritize safety and understand the costs: An aircraft's reputation is important, but the operator's safety record and maintenance standards are critical. Weigh the per-hour rates of chartering against the investment of ownership to make an informed decision.
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