What Private Jet Should I Buy? | Stratos Jet Charters, Inc.

TL;DR:

Consider trip frequency, distance, and passengers to choose the right jet size (Very Light to Heavy).
Private jets are expensive (millions for purchase, ongoing costs). Explore financing options.
Popular models (2024) for long-range travel: Gulfstream G650 & Dassault Falcon 8X.
Use brokers, dealers, or manufacturers to buy a new or pre-owned jet.
Consider chartering a jet if you don’t plan to buy right away.

Private jet ownership has skyrocketed in recent years, offering a new level of freedom and flexibility to travelers. But with so many different aircraft on the market, the question arises: “What private jet should I buy?”

This guide is here to help you find the perfect aircraft to match your needs and lifestyle.

Understanding Your Needs

Here are some key factors to consider when buying a private jet.

Mission Profile

Frequency: How often will you be flying? Daily commutes, weekend getaways, or long-haul business trips will significantly influence your choice.
Distance: What are your typical trip distances? Knowing your range requirements will help narrow down suitable aircraft categories.
Passenger & Cargo: How many passengers will you typically fly with? Consider if you’ll need ample cargo space for luggage or business equipment.

Budget

Private jets are a hefty investment. They cost anywhere between $2 million and over $100 million.

Millions for the initial purchase are just the tip of the iceberg. Fuel, maintenance, crew, hangar fees – the costs add up quickly. Don’t forget extras like landing fees, insurance, and depreciation.

Talk to a financial advisor. They can assess affordability and help you explore options like fractional ownership or jet cards if outright purchase isn’t a fit.

Which Private Jet is Best to Buy?

You might be surprised to learn there’s no single “best” private jet to buy. Every aircraft caters to a specific set of needs. The perfect private jet is the one that seamlessly integrates with your flying habits and lifestyle.

To help you navigate this purchase, private jets are categorized by size and range.

Very Light Jets: Ideal for short trips with a range of up to 1,500 miles and seating for 4-7 passengers.
Light Jets: Offers a range up to 2,000 miles and typically seat 6-8 passengers.
Midsize Jets: These range up to 4,000 miles and can seat 8-12 passengers. Perfect for longer-range business trips or luxurious vacations.
Super Midsize Jets: These offer an extended range of up to 5,000 miles and have room for 8-16 passengers.
Heavy Jets: These jets often exceed 5,000 miles with amenities like conference rooms and bedrooms. They can seat upwards of 18 passengers.

Popular Jet Options for 2024

Gulfstream G650

The Gulfstream G650 has a 7,000+ mile range, connecting continents with ease. Think nonstop from NYC to Tokyo. The G650 also features a luxurious, meticulously crafted cabin for ultimate comfort.

Dassault Falcon 8X

Known for its perfect blend of speed, range (over 7,500 miles), and comfort, the Falcon 8X lets you fly from LA to Beijing in luxurious peace and quiet.

Where & How To Buy a Private Jet

Aircraft Brokers

These aviation specialists act as matchmakers, connecting buyers with sellers. They have vast market knowledge, access to a wide range of jets, and can negotiate on your behalf.

Aircraft Dealers

Similar to brokers, dealers buy and sell jets, often specializing in specific brands or models. Research their reputation and ensure a proven track record.

Manufacturer Sales Representatives

For brand-new jets, consider contacting the manufacturer directly. They’ll have factory-fresh models and provide expert guidance specific to their aircraft.