The most affordable private jets are those categorized as Very Light Jets (VLJ). These jets typically only require one pilot, have lower operating costs, and can carry less than ten people. However, they may have shorter ranges compared to other types of aircraft. Here are the updated average prices for these jets as of 2023.
Very Light Jets in production
HondaJet Elite S
HondaJet’s global fleet has exceeded 170,000 flight hours and grown to 230 aircraft worldwide, with 20 HondaJets currently operating in Europe. The HondaJet Elite S has an average price of seven million US dollars. Introduced in 2021, the Elite S is the updated version of the 2018 HondaJet Elite. The Elite S has a 200-pound larger MTOW than its predecessor, reaching a weight of 10,900 pounds. It can sail up to 43,000 feet, with a top cruising speed of 422 knots, and possesses improved avionics and better range than its predecessor.
Specs
- Maximum Take-Off Weight: 10,900 lb (4,944 kg)
- Maximum cruise speed: 422 knots (782 km/h)
- Take-off distance: 3,639 ft (1,109 m)
- Maximum cruise altitude: 43,000 ft (13,106 m)
- Typical configuration: 1 crew + 6 passengers or 2 crew + 5 passengers
- Average price: $7 million
Cessna Citation M2
The Cessna Citation M2 has an average price of almost $6 million. This light business jet is part of the Citation family, has a range of up to 1,550 nautical miles, and is based on the fuselage of the Citation II. The Citation M2 boasts more powerful FJ44-1AP engines, enabling it to cruise up to 404 knots. Additionally, it features a Garmin 3000 cockpit with touch controls, perfect for a single rider.
Specs
- Maximum Take-Off Weight: 10,700 lb (4,853 kg)
- Maximum cruise speed: 422 knots (782 km/h)
- Take-off distance: 3,210 ft (978 m)
- Maximum cruise altitude: 43,000 ft (13,106 m)
- Typical configuration: 1-2 Crew + 7 passengers
- Average price: $5.85 million
Embraer Phenom 100EV
Embraer’s Phenom 100EV is the latest variant of their popular VLJ (Very Light Jet) that has been in production since 2008, also certified for single-pilot operations. The Phenom 100EV can carry four passengers with a range of 1,092 nautical miles and a maximum cruising speed of 406 knots. Equipped with the G3000 avionics suite, and has an average operating cost of $1,152 per hour. Emirates provides hands-on training at the Emirates Flight Training Academy using this aircraft for its flight schools.
Specs
- Maximum Take-Off Weight: 10,703 lb (4,855 kg)
- Maximum cruise speed: 406 kt (752 km/h)
- Take-off distance: 3,195 ft (973 m)
- Maximum cruise altitude: 41,000 ft (12500 m)
- Typical configuration: 1 Crew + 5-7 passengers
- Average price: $4.6 million
Cirrus Vision Jet G2 Elite
The Cirrus Vision Jet SF-50 G2 entered the market in 2016 and is certified for single-pilot operations. A single FJ33-5A engine powers the aircraft that can carry up to 6 passengers plus a pilot. The Vision Jet is equipped with the Garmin G3000 avionics suite and, for an extra layer of safety, with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System, a ballistic parachute recovery system for the entire aircraft. It has a maximum range of over 1,266 nautical miles.
Specs
- Maximum Take-Off Weight: 6,012 lb (2,727 kg)
- Maximum cruise speed: 311 knots (358 km/h)
- Take-off distance: 2,036 ft (620 m)
- Maximum cruise altitude: 31,000 ft (9448 m)
- Typical configuration: 1 Crew + 6 passengers
- Average price: $3.6 million
The future of private jets
Two planes are currently being developed in the Very Light Jet (VLJ) category: the Polish Flaris LAR01 and the American Stratos 714. The former, created by Metal-Master, is a five-seat ultralight jet that completed its first flight in 2019. The latter, developed by Stratos Aircraft, produced only one prototype and conducted its first flight in 2016. After completing its flight tests, it will be available for purchase at an estimated price of $3 million.
At the 2023 European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, the HondaJet Elite II was unveiled. This aircraft features several advanced technological advancements from Honda Aircraft, including the unique Over-The-Wing Engine Mount (OTWEM) configuration, Natural Laminar Flow (NLF) nose and wing, and composite fuselage. It has the Garmin G3000 avionics suite and is certified for single-pilot operations. The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has already approved its type certification, and Honda Aircraft is currently awaiting the same from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The demand for private jets has steadily increased over time, causing some supply chain issues for manufacturers. However, in 2023, North America’s need for private jet flights decreased by 7.7%, which helped counteract the unsustainable growth of previous years.
What do you think of these very light jets and customer demand in the future? Let us know in the comments.
Source: Global Air, Aircraft Cost Calculator
