What’s the Difference Between a Light Jet and an Ultra-Long Range Jet?

iJet
Jul 15
3 min read

In the world of private aviation, not all jets are the same. Although from the outside they may appear to be simply ‘small, luxurious aircraft’, there are huge differences between, for example, a light jet and an ultra-long-range jet. Knowing how to distinguish between them is not only interesting for aviation enthusiasts, but also essential for those who plan to book private flights, whether for business, leisure or special needs.

Today at iJet Aviation we explain the main differences between these two types of jets: size, range, speed, comfort, costs and the most common usage profiles. Because in private aviation, choosing well is synonymous with travelling better.

1. Range: The Most Defining Difference

Light JetsTheir range typically spans 2,000 to 3,700 km (approx. 1,100–2,000 nautical miles). This allows them to cover regional or national routes such as:

Madrid – London
Paris – Rome
New York – Miami

In terms of flight time, we’re talking about 2 to 3.5 hours.

Ultra-Long Range (ULR) JetsThis is an entirely different world: these aircraft can fly between 11,000 and 14,800 km (approx. 6,000–8,000 nautical miles) non-stop. They can easily connect cities like:

London – Singapore
New York – Dubai
Hong Kong – Paris

Their range allows for 12 to 16-hour flights without refueling. They’re ideal for intercontinental journeys or for those who wish to fly without interruptions.

2. Cabin Capacity and Comfort

Light Jets

Capacity: 4 to 7 passengers
Smaller cabins, usually not high enough to stand upright (interior height between 1.40 m and 1.50 m).
Comfortable seats, but limited space.
Often have a basic lavatory (some have none at all).
Small area for snacks and beverages.

Perfect for short flights where extensive luxury is not required on board.

Ultra-Long Range Jets

Capacity: 12 to 19 passengers
Spacious cabins with interior heights of 1.80 m or more, allowing passengers to stand upright.
Separate areas: lounge, meeting space, dining area.
Fully reclining seats that convert into beds.
Full galley capable of delivering gourmet catering.
Spacious lavatories, some equipped with showers.
Advanced entertainment systems, global connectivity, and customizable cabin ambiance (lighting, temperature, etc.).

These aircraft are genuine “flying apartments,” designed for long journeys in absolute comfort.

3. Speed and Performance

Light Jets

Cruise speed: 700 to 780 km/h (435–485 mph).
Ideal for shorter runways, including regional airfields, offering flexibility to land closer to final destinations.
Relatively low fuel consumption.

Ultra-Long Range Jets

Cruise speed: 900 to 950 km/h (560–590 mph).
Require longer runways due to their size and weight.
Engineered for maximum efficiency on long-haul routes.
Significantly higher fuel consumption, though optimized for extreme range.

4. Operating Costs

Light Jets

Purchase price: USD 3 to 9 million, depending on the model.
Approximate operating cost: USD 2,000 – 3,000 per flight hour.
Charter rates: EUR 2,000 to 4,000 per hour in Europe.

Ultra-Long Range Jets

Purchase price: USD 45 to 75 million or more.
Operating cost: easily USD 6,000 – 10,000 per flight hour, or even higher.
Charter rates: EUR 8,000 to 15,000 per hour, depending on the aircraft and services required.

Although the price is significantly higher, for intercontinental flights, the cost can be justified by avoiding stopovers, additional hotel nights, and valuable time saved during the journey.