Luxurious Private Jet Interiors: Comfort in the Sky

Those who dream of flying private usually imagine an experience of unbridled lavishness. Those who actually do fly private know better. Private jet travel most definitely offers luxury…of time, customization and convenience. Flyers can keep their shoes on, pack liquids in carry-ons with abandon, skip early arrivals and generally travel on their own schedule rather than those of airlines.

Your surroundings while you do that, however, may or may not approach the comfort of a modern large jet. Many private jets don’t allow you to stand upright. They may or may not be able to offer robust wi-fi. You can custom-order snacks and soft drinks, but not caviar or champagne. For those who have experienced – or observed with longing – first-class customer service on commercial airliners, flying private may seem somewhat utilitarian.

However, if physical luxury is your goal when flying private, you have many options. You do not have to be the Sultan of Brunei or Tyler Perry to find a truly luxurious private jet interior, if you’re willing to prioritize your physical space. If you want to see some examples of modern luxury in private jet travel, read on.

Getting Personal

Commercial air travel, while safe and effective, offers very little personalization in the 21st century. Customers largely expect to be treated as cogs in a machine. First class may offer a bit more attention, but only so much.

Charter flights, in contrast, can provide a tailor-made experience that allows flyers to feel special – and their surroundings are the first step. “Customers now expect interiors that align with their personal tastes, lifestyles and needs,” says Margo Terrier, marketing manager of charter services provider Global Jet. “We offer bespoke experiences tailored to dietary preferences or cultural requirements, complemented by exceptional fine dining experiences.”

Global Jet’s wide-body offerings such as its Airbus ACJ320 and Boeing 737 all feature distinctive cabin configurations with living rooms, conference and dining areas, executive seating spaces and master bedrooms and bathrooms. Clients can enjoy high-speed internet while relaxing in lavish interiors.

Airbus ACJ320 Conference & Dining Area. © 2024 GLOBAL JET

Boeing 737-700 Mid Cabin. © 2024 GLOBAL JET

Hot, Hot, Hot

Regional airline CommuteAir offers group charter flights in its Embraer E170, serving customers including teams in the Big XII college athletic conference. In addition to premium features such as 18-inch-wide leather seats and adjustable headrests, the plane incorporates hot ovens in both front and rear galleys.

“We have the capability to serve both hot and cold meals to our guests,” says Pete Ganabathi, CommuteAir director of network and operations planning. “As our operations grow, both domestically and internationally, we plan to utilize our ovens for a broader range of charter options to expand our client base.”

Staying Connected

For business travelers, being able to access the Internet while flying can be vitally important. For those traveling for pleasure, Internet access may be less crucial, but still desirable. And, of course, when possible, a faster connection is preferable to a slower one.

For true high-speed Internet while above the ground, satellite telecommunications provider Starlink is a key provider. Starlink can provide high-speed, “low-latency” Internet access in most parts of the planet thanks to its network of satellites in low Earth orbit, and private jets are included in its service capacity.

Private jet travelers in South America gained access to this luxury this past summer. Flyzar, a leading South American executive aviation company, added Starlink capability to its Gulfstream V offering, becoming the first one in the region to do so. In addition to obviously luxurious elements such as wood accents and comfy seats, passengers can now enjoy invisible luxuries such as continuous connectivity, increased productivity and reliable onboard entertainment.

With a maximum range of 6,500 nautical miles, Flyzar’s Gulfstream will be able to offer a stable connection even on long-haul flights during which connectivity has historically been more of a challenge. “This innovation not only enhances the experience of our passengers, but also reflects our commitment to excellence and the adoption of the latest technologies,” says Flyzar Chief Operating Officer Felipe Carmona.

Gettin’ Heavy

When you’re seeking a luxurious interior for a private jet trip, you’ll probably have an easier time obtaining your wish if you go big rather than small. “Light and mid-sized jets typically offer more limited options, often without cabin attendants,” says Marcela White, co-founder of charter operator Tavaero Jet Charter in Houston, Texas. “For those seeking the pinnacle of comfort and sophistication, heavy and super-heavy jets are a preferred choice.”

Tavaero’s Challenger 604. © 2024 Tavaero

One of Tavaero’s Challenger 604 heavy jets was completely refurbished in 2023 in order to offer maximum luxury and comfort for passengers. Tiffany blue blankets and ultra-wide leather seats provide a beautiful setting into which riders can sink and relax. Two four-place captain’s seat configurations, a four-place couch and a four-place conference table provide options for both those seeking to work hard – and those seeking to hardly work.

For sojourners needing more for entertainment than the available wi-fi, the jet provides an entertainment center with more than 500 movies from which to choose. Looking to satisfy your stomach instead? The Challenger’s galley includes a glass-door refrigerator than can highlight everything from fresh fruit to champagne bottles to much more. A convection oven lets passengers heat things up as well as cool them down.

“The Challenger delivers luxury, comfort and convenience – ideal for any journey,” White says.

Global Jet’s Airbus ACJ319 NEO. © 2024 GLobal Jet

Neo Luxe

Of course, while a beautiful setting is always welcome, on longer journeys, a little shut-eye may be the most luxurious option of all. Those looking to snooze while soaring will find plenty of room on the Airbus ACJ 319 Neo that Global Jet added in 2023, with 12 single beds and two double beds making a nap seem almost irresistible. With a range of 6,000 nautical miles, the jet can handle trips with plenty of time for dozing.

In addition to the ample bedding, the Neo includes more subtle touches such as gold accents, leather seats and iPads. Passengers can enjoy a main lounge, an aft cabin that can be used as an office, a master bedroom with a private bathroom and more. Gourmet meals help ensure that travelers have the energy to enjoy the plane’s many offerings. “Passengers on board can expect a unique blend of comfort, convenience and luxury,” Global Jet says of the Neo.

All That Glitters May Be Luxury

Charter travel will continue to offer a wide range of options for those seeking to fly on their own terms. To some extent, the most luxurious private jet option will always be the one that is most easily available. Those looking to travel short distances, use a last-minute ticket to the Super Bowl or take advantage of empty-leg pricing discounts may not care much about hot ovens, leather seats or beautiful décor. For most travelers, though, more luxury is definitely an advantage when flying private.

“Time savings is a primary reason for choosing private aviation,” White says. “However, once you’ve decided on private jet travel, the aircraft’s amenities play a significant role in shaping your experience.”

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