Flying in a private jet is the epitome of luxury travelling. Of course, that doesn’t mean that the business and first class services offered by international airlines are anything to be overlooked. Many would opt to fly through international airlines as they have so much to offer; even the exclusive lounges are a treat on its own.
But what is it about private jets that add on to the uniqueness of air travel? For one, the exclusiveness alone gives you an edge over many other travellers. For another, private jets offer spaciousness in the cabin, which means more room to move about rather than bumping elbows with a fellow passenger.
And as of this moment, travelling by air is still the safest and fastest option. Sure, one can opt for taking the train but that is only limited to regional destinations. If you’re planning to cross the ocean, a plane is always your best bet.
Private jets today also offer a range of upgrades in terms of performance, comfort, and technology. Popular manufacturers like Gulfstream and Bombardier have elevated the private jet industry to new heights. Even the likes of Boeing and Airbus are entering the foray, hoping to make a name for themselves in both the commercial and private jet industry.
Below are five of the most luxurious private jets you can own or even charter for your next trip.
Gulfstream G650ER
Known as Gulstream’s flagship private jet, the G650ER is a twin-engine jet that is capable of travelling over 12,000 kilometres. This makes it one of the few private jets that can cross the Pacific Ocean. At a price of US$66.5 million, the Gulfstream G650ER comes with a host of features and amenities that can only be found in the most luxurious private jets. It can carry between 11 to 18 people and it comes fully equipped with a kitchen and bar on-board. Some notable personalities who currently possess a Gulstream G650ER includes Jeff Bezos, CEO of Amazon as well as Elon Musk, CEO of both SpaceX and of course Tesla. (Image: Gulfstream)
Bombardier Global 7500
Another long-distance, purpose-built private jet, the Bombardier Global 7500 is designed to ferry passengers over 13,000 kilometres. This is essentially a non-stop flight from New York to Sydney, Australia — one of the longest flight routes in the world. Customisable every step of the way, the Global 7500 is capable of accommodating to your every need; you can choose from having four separate living spaces to a tailored cabin with a wide variety of floor plans and furnishings. The cabin itself can house a club suite, an entertainment suite, a conference suite, and a private suite if you ever need it. (Image: Bombardier)
Embraer Lineage 1000E
Based off one of its regional airliners, the Embraer Lineage 1000E is an amalgamation between a private jet as well as an elegant living space in the air. As with many private jets, the Lineage 1000E can be customised to your liking. From a master bedroom to a walk-in shower, the world is your oyster, or at least the Lineage 1000E is. It offers up to five cabins, all of which can cater to a specific zone, whether for entertainment, dining, work, or rest. The Lineage 1000E is also equipped with over-the-top modifications to its cabins through the company’s design chief Jay Beever. All this for only US$53 million, and that’s just the start of something great. (Image: Embraer)
Airbus ACJ319Neo
A more business version of the Airbus A319neo airliner, the ACJ319neo takes on a more bespoke feel than its compatriot with a whopping US$101.5 million asking price. Of course, that is before any custom interior fittings come into play. With a range of almost 12,000 km, this allows the ACJ319neo to fly non-stop from Los Angeles, California to Geneva, Switzerland. The cabins offer a wide array of design options to choose from, being able to accommodate up to eight passengers comfortably. The cabins are able to fit in a living room space, private bathrooms, working zones, and even master bedrooms. (Image: Airbus)
Boeing BBJ MAX 9
While still a provider of many commercial airlines, Boeing has also taken it upon itself to create its own fleet of private planes, known as Boeing Business Jets (BBJ). This is Boeing’s way of bringing the best of commercial aviation into the private air travel industry. The BBJ MAX 9 is one such private jet, converted from a commercial airplane. It can be transformed into a multitude of functions, whether it be for work or play. From a lavish lounge to a tech-savvy conference room or even your own private quarters, Boeing spares no expense when it comes to providing the best for its clientele. (Image: Boeing)