Very Light Jet
Very Light Jets are perfect for short trips and small groups, offering a cost-effective and efficient travel solution.
A Very Light Jet (VLJ) also known as an entry-level jet is the smallest private jet category, seating 4-5 passengers. They are cheaper to run than their standard private jet counterparts making them a more cost-effective choice for short-haul journeys of up to 2 hours. They can also use smaller runways. However, there is limited cabin space and baggage capacity is often restricted on these types of jets.money.
Capacity: Up to 4 passengers
Range: Approximately 1,200 miles
Features: Economical and quick, ideal for short-haul flights
Very Light Jet FAQs
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A Very Light Jet (VLJ), sometimes called an entry-level jet or personal jet, is a category of small business jets that typically seat four to six passengers. These jets are the smallest in the private jet market, making them a cost-effective option for short-haul flights. VLJs are known for their ability to access small airfields with short runways and narrow taxiways, making them perfect for remote locations. They are also approved for single-pilot operations and have a maximum take-off mass of less than 4,500 kilograms 12.
Examples of Popular VLJs:
Cessna Citation Mustang
Eclipse 500
Embraer Phenom 100
HondaJet HA-420
Eclipse 400
These jets are ideal for quick weekend getaways and can continuously fly between destinations 1,500 to 2,000 kilometers apart 1. They also offer limited in-cabin amenities, including possible lavatories, and have a small luggage compartment, usually measuring less than 70 cubic feet
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When evaluating the most cost-effective Very Light Jet (VLJ) to operate, it's essential to consider factors such as purchase price, fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and overall operational expenses. Among the various VLJs available, the Eclipse 500 often stands out as one of the most economical choices.
Eclipse 500
Purchase Price: The Eclipse 500 can be found on the pre-owned market for between £510,000 and £710,000, depending on the model year and condition.
Operational Costs: The Eclipse 500 is known for its low cost per nautical mile, approximately £1.51 for a 300nm mission with a typical payload. This is significantly lower than many competitors, making it a very cost-effective option.
Fuel Efficiency: The Eclipse 500's fuel consumption is around 68 gallons per hour, which is relatively efficient for a jet of its size.
Comparison with Other VLJs
Cessna Citation Mustang
Purchase Price: Higher than the Eclipse 500, often exceeding £1.5 million for a newer model.
Operational Costs: Generally higher than the Eclipse 500, primarily due to greater fuel consumption and maintenance costs.
Fuel Efficiency: Consumes more fuel per hour compared to the Eclipse 500.
Embraer Phenom 100
Purchase Price: Typically ranges from £2 million to £3.5 million.
Operational Costs: Higher operational costs due to more advanced avionics and larger cabin space.
Fuel Efficiency: Better than some larger jets but still more than the Eclipse 500.
Summary
The Eclipse 500 remains a popular choice for those seeking an affordable entry into the VLJ market. Its combination of low purchase price, efficient fuel consumption, and reduced operational costs makes it the cheapest VLJ to operate. This makes it particularly attractive for private owners and small businesses looking to minimise travel expenses while enjoying the benefits of private jet travel
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When it comes to chartering a Very Light Jet (VLJ), several factors determine what makes one jet stand out over the others. These factors include comfort, range, speed, and overall customer satisfaction. Based on these criteria, the Embraer Phenom 100 is often considered one of the best VLJs to charter.
Embraer Phenom 100
Comfort and Cabin Space: The Phenom 100 offers one of the most spacious and comfortable cabins in the VLJ category, boasting large windows, ergonomic seating, and a well-designed interior that enhances the overall passenger experience.
Range: With a range of approximately 1,178 nautical miles (2,182 kilometers), the Phenom 100 is suitable for short to medium-haul flights, making it versatile for various travel needs.
Speed: The Phenom 100 has a cruising speed of about 390 knots (448 mph or 720 km/h), ensuring that passengers reach their destination quickly.
Baggage Capacity: It offers ample baggage space, with a capacity of around 70 cubic feet (1.98 cubic meters), allowing passengers to bring along more luggage compared to other VLJs.
Advanced Avionics: The Phenom 100 is equipped with the advanced Prodigy Flight Deck, based on the Garmin G1000, which enhances safety and operational efficiency.
Comparison with Other VLJs
Cessna Citation Mustang
Comfort and Cabin Space: The Mustang's cabin is slightly smaller than the Phenom 100, but it still offers a comfortable experience for short flights.
Range: Around 1,150 nautical miles (2,130 kilometers), slightly less than the Phenom 100.
Speed: Cruising speed of 340 knots (391 mph or 630 km/h), making it somewhat slower than the Phenom 100.
Baggage Capacity: Approximately 57 cubic feet (1.61 cubic meters), less than the Phenom 100.
Eclipse 500
Comfort and Cabin Space: Smaller cabin, best suited for very short trips and fewer passengers.
Range: Around 1,125 nautical miles (2,084 kilometers), less than the Phenom 100.
Speed: Cruising speed of 370 knots (426 mph or 685 km/h), slower than the Phenom 100.
Baggage Capacity: Limited, with around 16 cubic feet (0.45 cubic meters), significantly less than the Phenom 100.
Summary
The Embraer Phenom 100 excels in multiple areas, making it the best VLJ to charter for those seeking a balance of comfort, range, speed, and baggage capacity. Its spacious cabin and advanced avionics provide a superior travel experience, making it a favorite among passengers and operators alike.
For more information on chartering the Phenom 100 or other VLJs, please contact our team at Private Jet Boutique. We are here to help you find the perfect aircraft to meet your travel needs.