The Best Private Jets: A Buyer’s Guide (2025)

You’re scanning listings, cross-checking specs, and still asking yourself, what’s the best private jet for me? 

Maybe you’re flying regionally every week. Perhaps you’re planning transatlantic trips with a team. Whatever the case may be, let’s break down the best private jets on the market right now so you can make the right investment. 

You want to think beyond speed and range to capability, time efficiency, and operational flexibility. Here’s what to focus on:

Performance and Range

A jet’s ability to fly long distances non-stop is a critical factor. We assessed:

-Maximum range (nautical miles)"
-Cruise speed
-Climb rate and ceiling
-Runway requirements (short-field performance)

Cabin Comfort and Design

The in-flight experience varies drastically across aircraft. We looked at:

-Cabin size (height, width, length)
-Passenger capacity in typical and max configurations
-Cabin noise levels
-Pressurization and altitude comfort
-Interior customization options

Operating Costs

We included both acquisition and ongoing costs:

-Purchase price (new or average market for used)
-Hourly operating cost (fuel, maintenance, crew)
-Maintenance programs and warranties
-Resale value and depreciation

Technology and Avionics

Modern jets offer advanced systems that enhance safety and connectivity:

-Avionics suite and autopilot systems
-In-flight Wi-Fi and entertainment
-Cockpit automation and situational awareness tools

Safety Record and Reliability

An often-overlooked but essential metric:

-Manufacturer safety history
-Dispatch reliability rate
-Redundancies in critical systems

Mission Versatility

Some jets are ideal for coast-to-coast trips, others for international flights or accessing small airfields:

-Range vs. payload trade-offs
-Ability to operate from short or unimproved runways
-Flexibility for cargo or medevac configurations

Ownership Experience

We also considered what it’s like to actually own and operate each aircraft:

-Manufacturer support and service network
-Training availability for pilots and crew
-Community and brand reputation

There is a range of types of private jets on the market. From smaller, short-runway-ready turboprops to larger corporate fleet planes, there's an aircraft fit for every need. 

High-Utility Turboprops

For buyers focused on regional reliability, shorter runways, and lower operating costs (without giving up cabin comfort) the turboprop deserves real consideration. These aircraft offer executive-level interiors with the flexibility to go places jets can’t.

Luxury Very Light & Light Jets

These aircraft are built for short to mid-range missions. They are efficient, comfortable, and perfect for smaller groups. If you’re focused on speed, access, and operational simplicity, this is where to start.

Luxury Mid-Size & Super Mid-Size Jets

Midsize jets bring more cabin comfort, stand-up interiors, and real coast-to-coast capability. They’re ideal for executives who need range, flexibility, and a work-capable environment.

Large & Long-Range Jets

If your travel includes international missions or nonstop coast-to-coast trips with a full passenger load, this category is worth your attention. These jets are built for endurance, comfort, and efficiency at scale.

The best private jet will vary considerably based on your needs. This list combines some of the best private jets across categories— light, midsize, long range, and beyond—so you can see how each one stacks up.

Turboprops

1. Pilatus PC-12 NGX 

The Pilatus PC-12 NGX is a versatile single-engine turboprop known for its reliability and performance. With a spacious cabin and the ability to operate from short and unimproved runways, it's ideal for both business and leisure travel.

Ideal For: Versatile missions requiring short-field performance
Passengers: 6–9
Range: 1,803 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 290 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 16.9 ft × 5.0 ft × 4.8 ft
Pros:
-Short takeoff and landing capabilities
-Spacious and comfortable cabin
-High payload capacity

Cons:
-Single-engine may be a concern for some operators
-Slower than jet-powered aircraft

Special Features:
-Advanced avionics suite
-Large cargo door for versatility

2. Beechcraft KingAir 350i

The King Air 350i is a twin-engine turboprop that offers performance and comfort. It's renowned for its durability and ability to operate in various environments.

Ideal For: Regional travel with larger groups
Passengers: 8–11
Range: 1,806 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 312 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 19.5 ft × 4.5 ft × 4.8 ft
Pros:
-Proven reliability and performance
-Spacious cabin with modern amenities
-Efficient operating costs

Cons:
-Less range compared to jets
-Slower cruise speed

Special Features:
-Noise-reducing composite propellers
-Enhanced cabin pressurization system

Light Jets

3. Embraer Phenom 300E

The Phenom 300E is a top-performing light jet, offering speed, range, and comfort. It's one of the best-selling light jets globally.

Ideal For: Fast, efficient travel for small groups
Passengers: 6–10
Range: 2,010 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 464 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 17.2 ft × 5.1 ft × 4.9 ft
Pros:
-High-speed performance
-Modern, spacious cabin
-Advanced avionics

Cons:
-Limited baggage space
-Cabin height may be restrictive for taller passengers

Special Features:
-Single-pilot operation capability
-State-of-the-art cabin management system

4. Cessna Citation CJ3+

The CJ3+ is a reliable light jet known for its efficiency and range. It's suitable for various missions, from business to leisure travel.
Ideal For: Cost-effective private travel
Passengers: 6–8
Range: 2,040 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 416 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 15.7 ft × 4.8 ft × 4.8 ft
Pros:
-Efficient fuel consumption
-Spacious cabin for its class
-Advanced avionics suite

Cons:
-Limited baggage capacity
-No stand-up cabin

Special Features:
-Garmin G3000 avionics
-Single-pilot certified

Midsize Jets

5. Cessna Citation XLS+

The Citation XLS+ combines comfort, performance, and efficiency, making it a popular choice in the midsize jet category.

Ideal For: Business travel with enhanced comfort
Passengers: 8–9
Range: 1,858 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 441 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 18.5 ft × 5.5 ft × 5.7 ft
Pros:
-Stand-up cabin
-Short runway capability
-Low operating costs

Cons:
-Limited range compared to larger jets
-Older design compared to newer models

Special Features:
-Spacious baggage compartment
-Advanced avionics system

6. Pilatus PC-24

The PC-24 is known as the "Super Versatile Jet" for its ability to operate from short and unpaved runways, offering flexibility unmatched in its class.

Ideal For: Accessing remote locations with jet speed
Passengers: 6–8
Range: 2,000 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 440 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 23 ft × 5.6 ft × 5.1 ft
Pros:
-Operates from short and unpaved runways
-Spacious and flexible cabin layout
-Large cargo door

Cons:
-Limited availability due to high demand
-Higher acquisition cost

Special Features:
-BMW Designworks interior
-Advanced cockpit with single-pilot operation

Super Midsize Jets

7. Bombardier Challenger 300

The Challenger 300 offers a combination of range, speed, and cabin comfort, making it a favorite among super midsize jets.
Ideal For: Coast-to-coast travel with comfort
Passengers: 8–10
Range: 3,100 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 459 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 28.6 ft × 7.2 ft × 6.1 ft
Pros:
-Spacious stand-up cabin
-Long-range capability
-High dispatch reliability

Cons:
-Higher operating costs
-Limited baggage space

Special Features:
-Flat-floor cabin
-Advanced cabin management system

8. Citation X

If speed is the priority, the Citation X delivers. It’s one of the fastest business jets ever built, with coast-to-coast range and a sleek cabin that gets you there in less time. Perfect for executives who value efficiency and time control above all.

Ideal For: Executives prioritizing speed and long-range performance.
Passengers: 8
Range: 3,460 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 525 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 23.9 ft × 5.5 ft × 5.7 ft
Pros:
-One of the fastest business jets available
-Long-range capabilities
-Spacious cabin

Cons:
-Higher operating costs
-Older models may require avionics upgrades

Special Features:
-Advanced navigation systems
-Large baggage capacity

Large Jets

9. Gulfstream 450 

The Gulfstream G450 is a proven performer in the large-cabin category, offering transcontinental range and Gulfstream’s hallmark luxury. With a spacious, quiet cabin and advanced avionics, it's a trusted choice for business executives and heads of state alike.

Ideal For: Long-distance travel with spacious comfort
Passengers: 12–14
Range: 4,350 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 476 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 40.4 ft × 7.3 ft × 6.2 ft
Pros:
-Excellent build quality and reliability
-Spacious stand-up cabin with multiple zones
-High residual value

Cons:
-Fuel efficiency not as high as newer models
-Out of production as of 2018

Special Features:
-Four-zone cabin layout
-Gulfstream PlaneView cockpit

10. Bombardier Challenger 605

The Challenger 605 blends comfort, range, and operating efficiency. It’s favored for its wide cabin, making it ideal for long-range business or leisure travel with larger groups.

Ideal For: Domestic and international flights with high passenger comfort
Passengers: 10–12
Range: 4,000 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 470 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 28.3 ft × 8.2 ft × 6.1 ft
Pros:
-Wide and quiet cabin
-Excellent baggage capacity
-Efficient operating costs for its class

Cons:
-Lacks the speed of Gulfstream or Global peers
-Slower climb rate

Special Features:
-Flat-floor cabin with full galley and lavatory
-Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics

Long Range Jets

11. Bombardier Global 7500

The Global 7500 is a flagship of intercontinental travel. With unmatched range and a four-zone cabin, it offers exceptional performance, style, and living space—truly redefining what a long-haul business jet can be.

Ideal For: Ultra-long-haul travel in uncompromised luxury
Passengers: Up to 19
Range: 7,700 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 516 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 54.5 ft × 8.0 ft × 6.2 ft
Pros:
-Longest range of any purpose-built business jet
-Exceptionally quiet and spacious interior
-Full-size bedroom, lounge, and galley

Cons:
-Very high acquisition and operating costs
-Requires large airport infrastructure

Special Features:
-Nuage seat system and circadian rhythm lighting
-Bombardier Vision flight deck

12. Gulfstream G650ER

The G650ER is a legend in the private aviation world. Known for its speed, range, and cabin elegance, it’s a top choice for global executives and heads of state. It can fly nonstop from New York to Hong Kong or Los Angeles to Dubai with ease.

Ideal For: Executives needing the fastest ultra-long-range solution
Passengers: 13–19
Range: 7,500 nautical miles
Cruise Speed: 516 knots
Cabin Dimensions (L×W×H): 46.8 ft × 8.2 ft × 6.3 ft
Pros:
-Best-in-class speed and climb performance
-Industry-leading comfort and reliability
-Gulfstream’s signature panoramic oval windows

Cons:
-Among the most expensive jets available
-Long lead times for new orders

Special Features:
-Symmetry Flight Deck
-Enhanced cabin pressure (4,000 ft at 45,000 ft altitude)

When you're ready to buy, trade, or sell, talk to someone who’s been on both sides of the deal. No inventory bias. No pressure. Just smart, data-backed guidance from senior partners who know the market and protect your interests. Let’s start the conversation.