Summary
- The Cessna Citation M2 Gen2 is a light private jet that offers a luxurious cabin design and impressive speed and range.
- The Beechcraft Premier IA may be an older aircraft, but it still offers luxury features like reclining leather seats and a spacious cabin.
- The Embraer Phenom 100EV delivers performance and luxury at a lower operating cost, with a comfortable cabin and customizable options.
When we imagine luxury jets, our minds often go to medium or large private aircraft, such as the Gulfstream G650 or ACJ A220. But luxury is not limited to just mid-sized and large jets. There are also options in the very light and light private jet categories. Here, we explore five light private jets that bring a touch of luxury to the skies.
5 Cessna Citation M2 Gen2
Wingspan: 47.3 feet (14.4 meters)
The latest addition to the Cessna Citation family, the Cessna Citation M2 Gen 2, introduces an enhanced cabin design and can comfortably accommodate a total of seven passengers. Powered by two Williams FJ44 engines, this jet achieves an impressive cruising speed of up to 404 knots (748 km/h) and a range that extends up to 1,550 nautical miles (2,870 kilometers).
The aircraft has enhanced its cabin technology, featuring wireless charging and additional access ports to ensure improved connectivity while in the air. The fold-down seats seamlessly convert into storage, providing an extra 50 pounds of cargo capacity. Meticulous design details, such as illuminated cup holders and compartments, contribute to the thoughtfully crafted interior of the aircraft.
Photo: Textron
Textron offers customers four interior configuration choices for this aircraft: blonde wood veneer with cool grey material, the cashmere collection featuring subtle natural tones and textures, espresso and ebony wood veneer, or the ebony collection with dark and sleek leathers combined with high gloss carbon fiber cabinetry.
4 Beechcraft Premier IA
Wingspan: 44.6 feet (13.5 meters)
The Beechcraft Premier IA debuted in 2006, featuring better braking performance, upgraded avionics, and a nicer, quieter cabin compared to its predecessor, the Beechcraft Premier I.
The I and the IA appear nearly identical externally and share the same engines. However, the IA addressed minor internal issues present in the original model while introducing upgraded interior amenities and technology. Production of the Premier IA concluded in 2011.
Although it’s an older aircraft, it still brings a touch of luxury with fully reclinable leather seats, fold-out wooden tables, and contoured headroom complemented by LED lighting. What sets it apart is its spacious cabin, measuring 13.5 feet in length and 5.4 feet in height, making it one of the roomiest among light private jets. This sense of space in a small jet adds a luxurious feel.
3 Cessna Citation Mustang
Wingspan: 43.2 feet (13.1 meters)
The Cessna Citation Mustang is a very light jet. The Mustang, in standard configuration, has four passenger seats in the aft cabin, a toilet, and seating for two in the cockpit. Powered by Pratt & Whitney PW600 engines, the aircraft can reach a cruise speed of 340 knots (640 km/h) and fly as far as 720 nautical miles (1,333 kilometers).
With a cabin height of 4.6 feet (1.3 meters) and a cabin width of 4.7 feet (1.4 meters), the seats in the Mustang have been ergonomically designed with comfort and luxury in mind. The aircraft is equipped with 12-volt DC power outlets, stowable tables, cupholders, an aft storage compartment with folding armrests, and small forward cabinets for drinks and ice. The side-facing lavatory can be transformed into an additional baggage area using a removable cargo net.
Like most other light jets, the Mustang is approved for single-pilot operation and is a popular choice among business travelers. The Mustang ceased production in 2017 due to competitive pressures from the upgraded Cessna M2, impacting sales.
2 Embraer Phenom 100EV
Wingspan: 40.4 feet (12.3 meters)
The Embraer Phenom 100EV is known for its performance and luxury with the operating costs of a turboprop. Designed to cater to four passengers and two pilots, this compact private jet also delivers luxury.
The cabin design is both comfortable and visually appealing. It boasts spacious leather seats with armrests, equipped with power outlets, and various controls. The consistent use of elegant wood finishing adds to the overall aesthetics. According to JetAdvisors, the Phenom’s interior allows for customization with seven pre-defined factory options.
The Phenom 100 is Embraer’s entry-level business jet launched in 2008 – there are now over 400 Phenom 100 aircraft in operation across a diverse range of customers, including Emirates, Etihad, and the Royal Air Force (RAF). In 2023, the manufacturer unveiled a new Embraer Phenom 100EX, offering a revamped interior and extended cabin space.
1 HondaJet Elite II
Wingspan: 39.7 feet (12.1 meters)
The HondaJet Elite II is a continuation of its Elite family that has a vision to redefine the very light jet category with superior performance and comfort. The interior boasts a fully enclosed lavatory and is designed to be bright and airy, thanks to ceiling skylights, creating a private yet inviting space. Configured in an executive club arrangement, the aircraft showcases two-toned contoured leather seats for a more luxurious experience.
Powered by GE Honda / HF120 engines, the aircraft has a maximum cruise speed of 422 knots (781 km/h) and a range of 1,547 nautical miles (2,865 kilometers).
Sources: JetAdvisors,