Forget the bird or plane – it’s a Very Light Jet (VLJ), a revolutionary category in private aviation. These sleek, economical jets, sometimes called microjets, personal jets, or minijets, are generating significant buzz, especially in the charter market. Their appeal lies in lower costs compared to traditional small cabin jets, making private aviation accessible to a broader audience. VLJs can also utilize smaller local airports, bypassing congested hubs and bringing passengers closer to their final destinations.
But are there drawbacks? VLJs, as their ‘minijet’ moniker suggests, offer compact cabin interiors. While specifics vary by sub-category (single-engine, small-cabin, large-cabin), space is a consideration. Furthermore, limited in-flight services and performance characteristics mean VLJ flights are ideally suited for shorter trips, typically under a few hours, with a maximum of four passengers. However, for quick, direct flights to and from smaller airports, a VLJ presents a compelling option. The convenience of private flight, especially for business travelers, could make VLJs a preferable alternative to first-class travel.