It is the American Dream for all to own a private plane, but the fact is that very few people, even exceptionally wealthy people, actually own planes. But there are many, many people who can afford and have good reason to charter planes. Planes can be exceptionally expensive to own, so no matter how much money you have, unless you need to fly on a daily basis, why pay for expensive upkeep, maintenance, storage, and inspections? Simply search for reputable charter plane companies to charter a plane.
But even when you find a great charter company, it can be challenging to find the right type of plane to charter. They come in different sizes, types, and even speeds. But when it comes to choosing different types of charters, usually the cabin size is what you use to judge the size and comfort of the plane. The smaller the cabin size, the less room your will have inside the plane, and the less bells and whistles you have to choose from. But when it comes to planes, size does matter, and it can affect cost. It will depend on how much room you want, how much you need to be able to operate in the cabin, how many people will be in your party, and even on the storage space you require. So based on your budget and your needs, here are the various types of planes that you can find from a high-end, reputable charter plane company.
Small, Light, & Super Light
These planes are ideal for short three to five hour trips. These are often referred to as executive charters, as they seat small parties, usually from four to eight people at the most, and they travel from 400-500 knots per hour, usually at altitudes of 40-50,000 feet in the air. These aircrafts can travel around 1,500-1,800 nautical miles comfortably, but are ideal for trips that are considered day trips. That doesn’t mean you can’t charter one to go cross-country. The luggage capacity is genuinely more than enough for four to eight people, usually 500-800 pounds storage, perfect even for golfing and skiing outings. A realistic charter, depending on the staff needed, perks, and distance traveled, can cost from $5,000 to $12,000 per day.
Midsize & Super Midsize
Midsize and super midsize cabin planes are roomier and can fly further distances. Many can cross the Atlantic, for example, with no problems. These planes include the midsized Citations (7 and X), Hawkers (750-850XP), Gulfstreams (G-150 & 200), and the state-of-the-art Challengers (300-350). While these planes still typically only hold six to nine people like smaller jets, they are much roomier, can fly farther, have much more space and flexibility, are faster, and also have a lot more in the way of luggage space. Of course, this also means they cost more, several thousand dollars more, but they are more luxurious and are designed for more comfortable longer excursions.
Large and Heavy
Large and heavy cabin planes start to take us to a different type and class of plane. Large cabins include more familiar charter names like many Gulfstream models (G350-GV), the midsized Falcons (2000DX-900EX EASy), and the Challenger 604 and 605. These are luxurious charter planes with spacious interior cabins, long-range capabilities, and tons of storage space. They can fly several thousand nautical miles in one trip easily and generally accommodate 12-16 passengers. These charters can start at $15-20,000 a day and up, depending on perks, length of trip, and other specifications. These charter planes are ideal for trips four to five hours and up, and for longer duration trips.
Jumbo (Also known as Converted Commercial or BizLiners)
The Airbus (A318-319), Boeing BBJs, and Embraer Lineage 1000 dominate this style of charter plane. These are the size you think of when you book a flight on an airline. They are commercial-sized planes designed for charter use. Many have full bathrooms with showers, offices, and bedrooms. The amount of people these charters hold is based on the unique design, as these are a custom class, but there will be no shortage of storage space, room, or perks for that matter. These are top-of-the-line planes that can cost $50,000 or more a day, and they are really designed for long flights, larger parties, and long-term use.
Ultimately, the aircraft that you choose will be determined by your needs, preferences, and budget. You really can’t go wrong with any plane that you charter from a reputable, reliable charter plane company. Choosing the company is extremely important, as is choosing the right plane. Again, determine the length, distance, and duration of your trip, and then make your choice. Choose a plane you will enjoy, too. It’s not every day that you charter a plane!
