When it comes to corporate travel, business executives often prefer private business jets over public airports. Flying privately offers the conveniences of customized flight plans, more direct routes, and less crowded planes.
However, there are now so many options in private aviation that it can be difficult to pinpoint which ones are the best. Therefore, we’ve highlighted a few that really make the grade to help you narrow down which ones are best for your needs.
Top Business Jets of 2018
As 2018 draws to a close, it’s time to take a look back at some of the year’s best business jets. Some of them are brand new innovations, while others are classics that have withstood the test of time. Read on to see our top picks and to learn how you can take flight aboard your favorite.
Private Aviation: Fly Privately in Luxury
5) Cessna Citation Latitude
Entered Service: 2015
Top Speed: Mach 0.80
Maximum Range: 3,280 NM
Passenger Capacity: 9
This aircraft is the physical manifestation of the perfect blend of comfort and efficiency. You can open the Latitude’s 31-inch entry door with a simple button push. Once inside, interior cabin comfort controls are literally at your fingertips. The Latitude is also the Citation line’s first aircraft to offer a flat-floor cabin.
In addition, there is no shortage of space in this aircraft. Most passengers can stand comfortably with the Latitude’s six feet of headroom. In addition, storage areas throughout the cabin can easily accommodate enough luggage for any length of a business trip.
The Latitude offers comfort levels on par with the best luxury ground transportation vehicles. You can book your own flight through private charter companies like Stratos Jet Charters.
4) Bombardier Challenger 350
Entered Service: 2014
Top Speed: Mach 0.83
Maximum Range: 3,200 NM
Passenger Capacity: 10
This super mid-size jet is the only one in its class that can travel its full range with full fuel levels at its full seat capacity. The Challenger 350’s reliability makes it a top choice for business executives who can’t afford to leave their travels to chance.
Bombardier touts this jet as having both the best-equipped cockpit and among the best data connectivity in its class. As such, travelers can stay connected with the office or catch up on their own projects. In addition, the Challenger 350’s cabin management system allows passengers to keep their flight information and entertainment at their fingertips.
Many of the Challenger 350s produced so far were delivered to two private jet companies, NetJets and Flexjet. Companies like these offer lease or partial ownership programs, which allow participants access to the company’s aircraft.
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3) Gulfstream G650
Entered Service: 2012
Top Speed: Mach 0.925
Maximum Range: 7,000 NM
Passenger Capacity: 19
Gulfstream’s order backlog on this model has been heavy since the company announced it back in 2008. Its extreme popularity is due, in part, to the G650’s “first of its kind” status in flying farther and faster than its competition.
This jet is a top choice for international travelers. As Gulfstream notes, the G650 saves time in-flight, which gets travelers on the ground and back to work more quickly. Flying aboard this jet from New York to Tokyo can save travelers almost an hour of flight time. Similarly, trips from Los Angeles to London are about 30 minutes quicker. For longer flights, the G650ER has an extended range of 7,500 NM.
As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll never need to sacrifice in-flight productivity for speed. The G650 offers a variety of high-speed connectivity options, including internet, satellite, and wireless local network systems. Travelers can really master the mobile office with online access, onboard printing, and even phone service.
You can book your flight aboard a G650 through PrivateFly’s private jet network.
2) Embraer Legacy 500
Entered Service: 2014
Top Speed: Mach 0.83
Range: 3,125 NM
Passenger Capacity: 12
This luxurious aircraft doesn’t have quite the range as some of the other business jets on this list. However, that’s because this is a different kind of plane, altogether. It’s designed to operate shorter routes, but what this jet lacks in range it makes up for in quality.
This is an awe-inspiring aircraft for business executives looking to book the most luxurious flight for themselves or their clients. The plush leather seats are as comfortable as the ones in a top-quality limo rental. Other interior features include custom wood veneer, stonework flooring, fine carpeting, and the roomiest cabin in its class. The Legacy 500 even features a full galley with stone counterparts. The premium in-flight entertainment system is all-digital with surround sound and wireless iPad or iPhone controls.
To experience the Legacy 500’s luxury for yourself, you can book a private flight through Magellan Jets. The company offers various membership levels. Corporate-level perks include aircraft access within six hours, no blackout dates, and no fuel surcharge.
The Pros & Cons: Private Aviation vs Public Airport
1) Boeing BBJ 787
Entered Service: 2018
Top Speed: Mach 0.85
Range: 14,000 NM
Passenger Capacity: 40
This is the business jet version of Boeing 787 Dreamliner and the first to be built specifically as a private jet. Flying in this aircraft does, in fact, feel like a dream.
This massive plane is set up as a home away from home for the ultimate in comfort for any length of corporate travel. With its superior range, the BBJ 787 can take you to business events in nearly any corner of the world. However, its large size does restrict it from landing at some smaller airports.
The BBJ 787’s layout features several different rooms for relaxing, working, and dining. Forget sleeping in standard airline chairs! This aircraft features full beds for a truly restful sleep on long flights. Getting better sleep will reduce jet lag, but so will the BBJ 787’s low cabin altitude of 6,000ft.
There aren’t very many of these aircraft in service yet, so it can be difficult to get your hands on one. Hong Kong-based Deer Jet added one to its fleet in 2016 with an hourly rate of $70,000.
Prepare To Take Flight
Booking your private flight is just the beginning. Once you’ve selected your destination and chosen your flight, a lot of your work is done. However, you’ve still got to pack your bags, arrange your airport shuttle, and tie up any other loose ends before you leave.
With so much on your plate, the last thing you want to worry about is how you’ll get to your flight. Forget battling traffic on your own and paying for expensive airport parking. In fact, if you’re flying privately there may not even be anywhere to park your own vehicle.
Who Needs A Luxury Airport Shuttle?
When you book an airport limo, you can rest assured knowing you’ve chosen the best method of luxury ground transportation. After all, your ride to your flight should be as comfortable and customizable as the flight itself. However, it’s not enough to call the first company that you find offering “limo service near me.”
A1A Airport and Limousine Service is your best choice for worldwide limo rental and more. In addition to our affordable limousine service, we also offer business event transportation, personal concierge, and even personal protective services. Give us a call or visit our website to learn more about how we can handle all of your travel needs.
