5 private jets you’ve (probably) never heard of
When you think of a private jet, it’s the big names that spring to mind.
Gulfstream’s G650 grabs headlines; the Cessna’s Citation XL is the global bestseller; and the classic Learjet is still synonymous with the roots of private aviation. But there are many other, lesser known manufacturers and models.
Each shape and size of private aircraft has its advantages: Some fly the furthest for long range transcontinental journeys; others faster for the shortest journey times. Some offer the most cost-effective charter price; others the agility to land on water or unusual terrain.
PrivateFly’s booking platform is connected to a global network of 7000 private aircraft, with many different models. So, whatever your itinerary and needs, our Flight Team can recommend the most suitable for your flight.
Of course some models of private aircraft are consistently popular and widely available (find out which in our quarterly insights report). But some of our customers do choose more unusual aircraft. Here are five recent examples:
1) The Diamond Twin Star
In the summer, we see many last minute flight requests.
This one was from a new client, who contacted us on a Friday night, looking to fly from Caen in northwest France, to the island of Jersey to spend the weekend. They were on a limited budget and wanted to take off as soon as possible.
Fortunately, we found them a Diamond Twin Star at a very cost-effective price.
The ultra light aircraft is not well known, but a perfect choice for two people travelling without much luggage, on a short flight. It is very cost-effective and can land on the shortest of runways.
2) The Nextant 400XT/XTI
Can you restore an aircraft to make it like new? The answer is yes, and manufacturer Nextant have proved it, with the Nextant 400XT / XTi .
It is completely reconditioned from the airframe of the Hawker Beechcraft 400A and XP. So without the cost of building a new airframe, it has all the benefits of a new and modern aircraft, but at a lower operating cost.
It’s still relatively unknown but we’re arranging more flights across Europe or between Europe and North Africa using a Nextant 400XT. We have one client who is a big fan and has flown in this aircraft several times.
3) The Gulfstream G100/150 Astra
US manufacturer Gulfstream is well-known for its ultra long range jets, such as its headline-grabbing flagship, the G650. The G6’s forerunner, the GIV (G450) is one of our bestsellers for flights between the US and Europe.
But there are other smaller Gulfstream aircraft which are lesser known, such as the G100/150. This is also known as the Astra G100/150, as was developed from IAI’s Astra business jet in the 1990s.
It can come as a surprise that Gulfstream jets come in smaller packages. A recent client contacted us after receiving a quote mentioning the G100, saying they didn’t need a huge long range jet. We reassured them that this was in fact a midsize jet, seating up to 8 passengers.
Like its bigger siblings, the G100/150 is equipped with a spacious and stylish cabin. It has a range of around 3,000 nm.
.
4) The Grumman G-73 Mallard
The clue is in the name with this one. Sometimes unusual landing conditions require an unusual aircraft. And the Mallard G-73 is a twin piston, amphibious aircraft which can land on water.
Private aircraft have access to a large number of runways, so an amphibious aircraft is rarely needed. But for some destinations, this aircraft comes into its own.
A travel agency partner booked this aircraft when organising a multi-leg Caribbean itinerary for a client. One of the stops was a tiny island only accessible by sea, so the Mallard enabled them to land on the beach.
We’ve also seen interest from aviation enthusiasts, who are looking for the unique experience of landing in an amphibious aircraft. Discover our unique AvGeek Caribbean itinerary to learn more about the unique landings of Caribbean islands.
5) The Saab 340
Saab is well known as a car brand, but did you know they also manufacture aircraft?
The Saab 340 is a regional airliner that can seat up to 36 passengers, and offers a particularly cost-effective option for larger private group travel.
We have chartered this aircraft recently for groups attending sporting events such as Euro 2016, Wimbledon, and Grand Prix races. Using a private aircraft, the whole group can travel together, and reach their destination faster, on a personalised itinerary.
Read more about all the aircraft in our global network, by category. Or for advice and pricing on any global itinerary, contact our expert Flight Team (24 hours) on +44 1747 642 777.
Related content
Aerion Supersonic reveals new AS2 design
What’s the future for the iconic Learjet brand?
