Understanding Private Aircraft Categories

Let’s be honest, when you’re working as a charter broker, the pressure is real. A client wants a quick quote, and you’re expected to magically recommend the perfect aircraft, fast. But recommending the right private jet isn’t about picking the fanciest one, it’s about understanding the different aircraft categories and matching them to the client’s real needs.

Here we’ll break down the four most common aircraft categories:

• Turboprops

• Light Jets

• Midsize Jets

• Heavy Jets

We will talk about what they are best for, when to suggest them, important tips to recommend the right aircraft, and how to sound like a pro while doing it. So let’s get into it.

Popular Private Aircraft Category

Turboprops - The Underdog with Big Value

Turboprops such as King Air 350, Pilatus PC-12, and Cessna Caravan are small aircraft that run on propeller engines instead of jet engines. They usually seat 4 to 9 passengers and are ideal for short hops. While it is not a jet, the turboprop offers a smooth ride and can land closer to the final destination, saving drive time on the ground.

When to Recommend a Turboprop:

• Short distance trip under 500 miles

• Flights into small airports with short runways

• Budget-sensitive clients

• Scenic, leisure trips to islands, remote lodges.

Many air charter brokers overlook turboprops, thinking clients only want jets. But I once saw a broker secure a loyal client just by recommending a King Air for a ski trip. Why? Because it landed them right at the tiny mountain airport where jets couldn’t go. Sometimes, less is more.

Light Jets- The Nimble Favorite

Light jets are true business jets. Small, fast, and cost-effective. They typically seat 6 to 8 passengers and have a flight range of around 1200 to 1800 miles. Some of the popular light jet aircraft are Citation CJ3, Learjet 45, Phenom 300, and HondaJet. This light jet is one of the most efficient jets on the market, perfect for getting you in and out quickly, with the privacy and comfort of a private cabin.

When to Recommend a Light Jet

• Short to medium trips

• Small group of 4-6 travelers

• Clients who value speed over space

• Day-trippers or business travelers

Light jets are crowd-pleasers. If you are unsure and the client is flexible, it is often the safest default recommendation. Just double-check the language requirements; that is where people often get caught off guard.

Midsize Jets: The Business Class of the Sky

Midsize jets bridge the gap between comfort and range. They typically seat 7 to 9 passengers, offer standing room, and can fly 2000 to 3000 miles nonstop. Popular midsize private jets are Hawker 800XP, Citation XLS+, Learjet 60, and Gulfstream G150. With the midsize jet, you will get the legroom, luggage space, and even an enclosed lavatory, making it ideal for longer trips without sacrificing comfort.

When to Recommend a Midsize Jet:

• Cross-country travel

• Groups of 6-8 passengers

• Clients looking for a spacious cabin without breaking the bank

• Longer flights with onboard amenities

A midsize private jet can feel like a major upgrade from a light jet, especially for newer charter clients. I have seen clients become loyal just because a broker suggested a more comfortable ride for their 4-hour flight instead of pushing for a cheaper light jet. Comfort matters especially when you are in the air for hours.

Heavy Jets: The VIP Experience

Heavy private jets are the luxury of the sky, offering range, space, and top-tier amenities. They typically seat 10 to 16 passengers and can fly 4000+ miles nonstop. Some popular heavy private jets are Gulfstream GIV, Bombardier Challenger 650, Falcon 900, and Global Express. This type of aircraft offers a full standing cabin, lie-flat seating, and long-range capacity perfect for international trips or when clients want to travel in full comfort with their team.

When to Recommend a Heavy Jet:

• International or long-haul flights

• Large groups or families traveling together

• High-net-worth clients expecting luxury

• Special occasions like music tours, executive retreats, and international events.

Never assume the biggest aircraft is the best. Some clients are uncomfortable with large jets as it is their first time flying private. Others won’t settle for anything less. Ask about the comfort level and trip purpose to know your client's requirements better.

How to Match the Private Aircraft to Client Needs

Here is a quick checklist I like to use when helping brokers train their teams.

Client Question	What to Ask	Best Match
How far are they flying?	Distance & route?	Turboprop for < 500 mi, Light for 500- 1500 mi, Midsize for 1500- 2500 mi, Heavy for 2500 mi+
How many people are flying?	Confirm the exact passenger count	Turboprop/Light (2-6), Midsize (6-9), Heavy (10+)
What’s the purpose of travel?	Business, leisure, luxury?	Business: Light or Midsize; Luxury: Midsize or Heavy
Are they price sensitive?	Budget range?	Turboprop or Light Jet
Do they have luggage/special cargo?	Golf bags? Skis? Instruments?	Midsize or Heavy Jet with larger cargo space

Create a saved aircraft recommendation guide in your CRM so you can access it quickly when quoting.

Educate to Impress

When you explain why you are recommending a certain jet, you build trust and authority. Don't just say,  Here is a quote for a Phenom 300. Say something like: “Based on your route and group size, I’d recommend the Phenom 300. It is fast, cost-efficient, and fits 6 passengers comfortably. It is one of the most requested light jets in this category.” In this way, you sound informed, thoughtful, and client-focused.

Final Thoughts: The Right Aircraft = Repeat Clients

Knowing your private aircraft categories is more than technical knowledge. It’s about making better decisions, faster, and giving your clients the confidence that they’re in good hands.