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For plane spotters everywhere, there’s nothing quite like seeing heavyweights like the 747 or A380 all decked out in new or unique liveries. Despite our love of commercial aircraft, witnessing a fully customized private jet and wondering who might be onboard is one of the biggest thrills you can experience.
These aircraft offer everything you want as a plane spotter but with the added mystique and engineering ingenuity that comes with these unique aircraft. From sleek, high-performance jets to flying palaces, specific private jets stand out as the most admired in the industry. Here, we’ll look at some of the rarest, most expensive, and downright luxurious private jets admired by aviation fans.
1. Gulfstream G700
For many, the Gulfstream G700 is in a league of its own. Gulfstream has long been setting the standard in private aviation, and this beast of the skies is no exception. It accommodates the largest cabin of its class and has a capacity for 19 passengers. This is enough for a billionaire, her entourage, or an extended family getaway. Its range of 7,500 nautical miles also means that you can fly practically anywhere on the planet without even stopping to refuel. Its ultra-modern cabin features circadian lighting, miming natural light patterns to reduce jet lag, a master suite with a shower, and whisper-quiet engines.
Its price tag means that only billionaires, CEOs, and heads of state can own it, but if you charter a private jet, the Gulfstream G700 should be at the top of your list.
2. Bombardier Global 7500
Matti Blume, CC BY-SA 4.0
A direct competitor to the Gulfstream G700, the Bombardier Global 7500 has its collection of tricks up its sleeve. It is the world’s longest-range and fastest business jet, capable of flying 7,700 nautical miles without refueling. This means it can effortlessly complete routes like New York to Hong Kong or London to Buenos Aires.
If all those records weren’t enough to persuade, how about four separate living spaces, a full-size kitchen, and seats with a range of industry firsts? The Global 7500 also features a dedicated crew suite, ensuring privacy for both passengers and crew. Its smooth ride technology, which minimizes turbulence, adds to its appeal among high-net-worth individuals.
3. Cessna Citation X+
Photo (c) Michael Bludworth
You’ll go a long way to find a list of private jets that don’t include a Cessna Citation. In this case, we’ve included the X+ for its speed and size for short to medium ranges. It is one of the fastest private jets, reaching speeds of Mach 0.935. The aircraft features a sleek aerodynamic design, powerful twin Rolls-Royce engines, and exceptional climb performance.
The Citation X+ is usually chartered by executives flying domestically, and its capacity of 8 passengers means that you can fit a whole executive team on board without booking a large jet. It can fly from Los Angeles to New York in just over four hours, making it ideal for time-sensitive travel. But for those on the ground, you’ll be able to admire its combination of speed and efficiency during take-off and landing.
4. Dassault Falcon 10X
The Dassault Falcon 10X has generated more buzz than any other private jet in recent years. It’s yet to go into commercial production, but aviation fans are excited by its revolutionary fuel efficiency, a range of 7,500 nautical miles, and its cabin width and height.
Inside, the Falcon 10X offers an expanded dining/conference area, an entertainment area, and a private stateroom with a queen-size bed or a main suite with a private stand-up shower. The baggage compartment is also the largest in its class. Aviation enthusiasts eagerly anticipate its arrival, as it promises to redefine the boundaries of luxury and performance.
5. Boeing Business Jet (BBJ)
There’s no doubt that for plane spotters everywhere, the Boeing Business Jet is the holy grail of private jet spotting. It’s essentially a flying penthouse and is the most prominent jet on our list. As a commercial airliner transformed into a private plane, it provides abundant space and luxury. The BBJ features fully customized interiors, from boardrooms to bedrooms, and boasts a massive range exceeding 7,000 nautical miles.
It is preferred for royal families, tech moguls, and world leaders who need long-haul capability with no compromises. It can fly from London to Sydney or New York to Tokyo without refueling.
Why Private Jets Captivate Aviation Enthusiasts
To plane spotters everywhere, private jets represent the best and most luxurious aviation offers. From spotting small, sleek jets zipping across the skies to large private jets transporting executive teams from city to city, they all ignite wonder and admiration in us. Private aviation offers endless fascination and inspiration for those who admire these engineering marvels.
