Small Private Jets: What’s Inside and Which One to Charter

For most private trips, you don’t need a big jet. If you’re flying with a few people for an hour or two, a small private jet gets you there faster, uses smaller airports closer to your destination, and gives you the same leather-seat, no-lines experience as larger aircraft.

Small private jets come in two classes: very light jets and light jets. Here’s what each one is like inside, which models you can charter, and how to choose.

What’s inside a small private jet?

A small private jet interior is built around club seating: four leather seats in two facing pairs, for conversation, work or a meal. Most also have:

• Seats that recline and swivel, often also sliding sideways
• Large windows that make the cabin feel open
• A refreshment area stocked with drinks and snacks
• A private lavatory. It’s fully enclosed on many models and a compact toilet behind a divider on the smallest jets.
• Luggage space in the nose and the tail

The trade-off is headroom. Small jet cabins are under 5 feet tall, so you’ll stoop to walk to your seat. Once you’re seated, there’s plenty of legroom, and on a 1–2 hour flight you won’t notice the low ceiling.

Very light jets: the smallest private jets

Very light jets (VLJs) are the smallest private jets you can charter. They’re efficient and quick, and ideal for 2–4 passengers on short trips.

HondaJet

Its engines are mounted above the wings, which frees up cabin space and makes it one of the quietest small jets in the air.

• Passengers: typically 4–5
• Range: about 1,400 nm
• Lavatory: private, enclosed

Embraer Phenom 100

The Phenom 100 has big windows, a cabin that feels roomy for its size, and a private enclosed lavatory, which is uncommon in this class.

• Passengers: typically 4–5
• Range: about 1,200 nm
• Lavatory: private, enclosed

Cessna Citation M2

The Citation M2 comes from Cessna’s proven Citation line. It can use short runways and has one of the longest ranges in its class.

• Passengers: typically 4–6
• Range: about 1,500 nm
• Lavatory: compact

See all of our Very Light Jets

Light jets: a little more room

Light jets are one step up. They have longer cabins, more seats, more luggage space and, on most models, a fully enclosed lavatory.

• Cessna Citation CJ4: the largest jet in the CJ family. It seats 6–8 and flies about 2,000 nm, so it can reach most regional destinations without a stop.
• Hawker Beechcraft Premier 1A: its carbon-composite fuselage gives it a wider cabin than most light jets, and it seats 6.
• Dassault Falcon 10: a classic that’s fast for its size, with Dassault’s quality finish.

See all of our Light Jets

Very light jet or light jet: which is right for you?

Rule of thumb: for 4 or fewer passengers on a trip under 2 hours, a very light jet is perfect. With more people, more luggage or a longer trip, step up to a light jet.

Why charter a small private jet?

• More airports: small jets can land on shorter runways, often closer to your meeting, home or hotel
• Fast: cruise speeds of about 400 knots or more, on direct routes
• Easy to find: small jets are widely available for last-minute and one-way trips
• Same experience as a big jet: private terminals, no security lines, and you board minutes before takeoff

Small private jet FAQ

Ready to fly small?

Tell us where you’re going and how many people are flying, and we’ll match you with the right small private jet.

or call 844-251-0555

Reviewed by Richard Berger, CEO of Charter Jet One (29 October 2026): Richard Berger is recognized for his expertise in private aviation and commitment to redefining luxury travel. He is credited with establishing the company’s focus on efficiency and flexibility, offering high-profile clients a bespoke travel experience. A key priority under his leadership is integrating sustainable practices into the fleet and operations. Read more here.