Private Jet Charter

As more and more fliers are turning away from large airliners, the attention is turning to the ownership and chartering of private jets. Whatever your needs, there is a type of private jet and style of service that suits the needs of your travel department.

Knowing the types of plane will help you find the best option for you. Here are some of the main classifications:

• Turboprops: Thanks to the high cost of fuel, traditional propeller planes, such as the Saab 340, have had a resurgence of popularity, especially for brief flights and small groups. Other planes generally use twin-engine jet propulsion.

• Light Jets, such as the Hawker 1000, Learjet 35, and Beech Jet 400. This class is intended to serve small compliments and offer the minimum in amenities. Light jets are the most inexpensive option for shorter flights, but are not suitable for trans-oceanic flights or luxury applications.

• Mid-sized Jets, including the Westwind Astra and Citation Excel series, represent the next step up in cabin capacity and services, and are intended to accommodate trips of greater distances.

• Super Mid-Sized Jets, like the Gulfstream 200 and Challenger 300, are up to the challenge of ocean crossing, as well as including high-tech communication features and baggage storage. These planes are true luxury cruisers, and are your best bet for intercontinental travel.

• Heavy Jets, including the Boeing Business Jet and the Global Express, are the stretch limousines of private airplanes, with the capacity for a full manifest of passengers. Models in this class generally offer every conceivable extra, and are capable of accommodating a dozen or more passenger on a trans-world flight in ease and comfort.