Very light jets (VLJs) are unique aircraft that allow private and executive travelers to traverse short distances efficiently. There are a few different groups of customers for which these kinds of aircraft are the optimal planes to purchase.

Namely, corporations that require large amounts of short-range travel, such as those with multiple offices within a relatively contained geographic area like the American Northeast, can be ideal customers for VLJs. Additionally, those with relatively high-frequency short-distance travel needs, like individuals who regularly fly between, say, New York City and Stowe, Vermont, will find that a VLJ could be ideal.

Several factors can determine exactly which VLJ might be best for a given customer’s needs, the most important of which is undoubtedly fuel efficiency. Other factors like range and capacity will likely be critical factors in a potential passenger’s considerations.

Lastly, the safety record and redundancy systems onboard a given plan may be another influential aspect of deciding which VLJ to purchase. In this article, we will look at five of the best very light jets on the market and in the skies today.

1 Phenom 100

Manufacturer: Embraer

The Embraer Phenom 100 is among the most popular private aircraft in the skies today and was first introduced by the Brazilian manufacturer in 2008, with 401 examples rolling off of the company’s assembly lines since production began. The aircraft, which can accommodate a capacity of up to seven passengers, is among the few private jets that just a single pilot can operate.

Photo: Embraer

According to manufacturer Embraer, the latest variant of the Phenom 100, the 100EX, boasts modern single pilot-friendly avionics and advanced safety features. With an impressive balance of range, efficiency, and capacity, it is no surprise that the Phenom 100 has increasingly become the jet of choice for many private operators.

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2 Vision SF50

Manufacturer: Cirrus

The Cirrus Vision SF50 is among the newest very light jets to enter the skies, first hitting the market in 2016. Since then, American manufacturer Cirrus has seen its sales skyrocket, with over 400 of the type delivered.

Photo: GingChen | Shutterstock

According to Cirrus, this aircraft stands out due to its unique single-engine configuration and striking V-shaped tail design, both of which are unusual for private jets. Several factors make the SF50 an appealing aircraft for a first-time private jet owner, including the increased efficiency offered by just a single engine.

The aircraft stands out against the competition in the safety department, with the plane offering a one-of-a-kind parachute. Sporting advanced safety features, next-generation avionics, and many other bells and whistles, the Vision SF50 (known to many as simply the Vision Jet) is becoming ever-more popular.

3 HA-420 HondaJet

Manufacturer: Honda Aircraft Company

First hitting the market in 2003, the HondaJet is no stranger to the very light jet market, and over 250 examples have already been delivered to customers across the globe. The aircraft features a twin-engine configuration, which unusually features the powerplants fixed above the wings on pylons.

Photo: Bluebearwing | Shutterstock

One of the primary advantages of the HA-420 over its VLJ competitors is an extended range, which allows the plane to service many more destinations nonstop. Furthermore, the Honda Aircraft Company offers an extensive maintenance network for the aircraft, alongside an impressive selection of certified pre-owned HA-420s available for sale, according to the manufacturer.

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4 Citation Mustang

Manufacturer: Cessna (Textron Aviation)

First launched at the National Business Aviation Association’s (NBAA) annual convention in 2002, the Cessna Citation Mustang has been a very light jet market staple for over two decades. The plane was produced during an 11-year production run between 2006 and 2017, in which over 470 units of the popular jet rolled off Cessna’s assembly lines.

Many things set the Citation Mustang apart from its more modern competitors, including an extended range. According to Textron Aviation (Cessna’s parent company), the jet is exceptionally robust and can operate under nearly any conditions, being equipped with everything from ice protection controls to a Class A Terrain Awareness Warning System.

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5 Eclipse 550

Manufacturer: Eclipse Aerospace

The Eclipse 550 was first launched at the NBAA convention in 2011 and was produced between 2014 and 2017 before manufacturer Eclipse Aerospace reopened the jet’s production line in 2023. In total, 35 aircraft have been delivered to customers. There are many facets that make the Eclipse 550 an appealing very light jet, including advanced avionics and multiple redundancy systems

Photo: P.V.R.M | Shutterstock

Undoubtedly, where the aircraft performs best on paper is in the efficiency category. While only consuming 59 gallons of fuel per hour, manufacturer Eclipse Aviation boasts that the 550 is the most efficient twin-engine aircraft on the market today. The aircraft also offers impressive performance, with a service ceiling of 41,000 feet and a maximum cruising speed of 430 miles per hour.