What is the Cheapest Private Jet to Charter for 4-6 Passengers? 2025 Guide | Safe Fly Aviation
What is the Cheapest Private Jet to Charter for 4–6 Passengers in North America? A 2025 Guide
In the world of private jet charter, one question dominates conversations with busy executives, families, and small teams across the United States, Canada, and Mexico: "What's the most affordable private jet I can charter for 4–6 passengers without skimping on safety or comfort?"
The answer isn't a single model – it's about matching the right light jet to your route, group size, and budget. In 2025, with fuel prices stabilising and empty-leg deals proliferating, chartering a light private jet for 4–6 passengers starts as low as $3,500 per hour all-in, making it more accessible than ever for North American travellers.
At Safe Fly Aviation, we've crunched the numbers from our ARGUS Platinum-rated fleet and network to bring you this straightforward guide. We'll spotlight the top three cheapest private jets for your group size, complete with real 2025 pricing examples for popular routes like New York to Miami or Los Angeles to Las Vegas.
Why Light Jets Are the Sweet Spot for 4–6 Passengers
Light jets (also known as very light jets or VLJs in some circles) are purpose-built for efficiency on trips under 2,000 nautical miles. They seat 4–7 comfortably, burn less fuel than midsize or heavy jets, and can operate from shorter runways at reliever airports – saving you time and money.
Key Perks for Private Jet Charter in 2025:
- Hourly rates: $3,500–$5,500 (vs $6,000+ for midsize)
- Range: 1,200–1,800 miles non-stop
- Speed: 400–450 knots
- Cabin: Pressurised, lavatory-equipped, with room for skis, golf clubs, or laptops
- Safety: When operated under Part 135 with FAA-approved programmes, these jets match commercial airline standards
Now, let's meet the stars of the show.
The Top 3 Cheapest Private Jets for 4–6 Passengers
Based on 2025 market data from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and our internal quotes, here are the most budget-friendly options. All are turbine-powered, twin-engine jets with modern avionics like Garmin G3000 or Collins Pro Line.
| Aircraft Model | Passenger Capacity | Hourly Rate (All-In, 2025) | Range (Non-Stop) | Best For (North American Routes) | Sample Cost: NYC–MIA Round-Trip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embraer Phenom 100EV | 4–5 | $3,500–$4,000 | 1,178 nm | Short hops (e.g., Chicago–Vegas) | $12,000 (4 pax, 5 hours total) |
| Cessna Citation Mustang | 4–6 | $3,800–$4,200 | 1,343 nm | Regional (e.g., Toronto–Cabo) | $13,500 (6 pax, 5.5 hours) |
| Embraer Phenom 300E | 6–8 (optimal 4–6) | $4,200–$4,800 | 1,971 nm | Cross-country (e.g., LA–Aspen) | $15,000 (4 pax, 6 hours) |
Notes: Rates include crew, fuel, taxes, and basic FBO fees. Empty-leg specials can slash 40–70% off. Prices for 4–6 passengers; per-person cost drops with fuller loads.
Detailed Aircraft Breakdown
1. Embraer Phenom 100EV: The Ultra-Budget VLJ King
If you're pinching pennies for a quick getaway, the Phenom 100EV is unbeatable. It's the smallest certified private jet, with a sleek single-pilot option (though Safe Fly always flies two-crew for safety).
- Why it's cheap: Low fuel burn (150 gallons/hour) and compact size keep operating costs down
- 2025 Twist: Upgraded EV model's Garmin autoland system adds redundancy for marginal weather – a game-changer for East Coast routes
- Real Quote: For 4 passengers from Teterboro (TEB) to Miami (OPF), expect $6,000 one-way – often matched by empty legs
— James Harrington, CCO, Safe Fly Aviation
2. Cessna Citation Mustang: Versatile and Value-Packed
The Mustang edges out competitors for groups of 6, offering foldable seats and a full lavatory in a footprint smaller than a minivan.
- Why it's cheap: Proven reliability means lower maintenance; it's a favourite for on-demand Part 135 charters
- 2025 Twist: Enhanced Wi-Fi and noise reduction make it ideal for business calls mid-flight
- Real Quote: Vancouver (YVR) to Seattle (BFI) for 6 pax? Under $4,500 round-trip – perfect for cross-border hops
3. Embraer Phenom 300E: The "Best Value" Light Jet
Slightly pricier but punches above its weight, the Phenom 300E is the world's most-flown light jet for a reason: It seats 6 in club seating with elliptical windows for panoramic views.
- Why it's cheap (relatively): Economies of scale from Embraer's production line keep hourly rates competitive
- 2025 Twist: New Pratt & Whitney engines boost efficiency by 10%, ideal for fuel-sensitive routes like Chicago to Nassau
- Real Quote: Los Angeles (VNY) to Las Vegas (LAS) for 5 pax: $7,200 round-trip, including complimentary transfers
— Safe Fly Aviation Charter Team
Hidden Costs to Watch (And How Safe Fly Eliminates Them)
Charter quotes can balloon with add-ons, but not with us. Here's what we include in our transparent, all-in pricing:
- Repositioning fees: $1,000–$2,000 if the jet isn't local (we waive for network partners)
- De-icing/landing fees: Baked into our fixed rates
- Catering: Complimentary light meals; gourmet upgrades from $50/person
- Empty legs: Check our weekly calendar for 50%+ off – e.g., a Phenom 300E from Aspen to NYC last week was $1,800/person
Why Choose Safe Fly Aviation for Your Light Jet Charter?
We're not just another broker – Safe Fly Aviation operates a vetted fleet of 2023–2025 Phenom 300Es, Citation Mustangs, and more under ARGUS Platinum, Wyvern Wingman, and IS-BAO Stage 3 standards. That means:
- Zero incidents in our 10-year operating history
- North America focus: 300+ airports from Vancouver to Cabo, with seamless US-Canada-Mexico crossings
- Transparent pricing: No surprises, ever – what you see is what you pay
- Concierge perks: 24/7 support, chauffeured SUVs within 50 miles, and pet-friendly cabins
- Safety first: All pilots undergo recurrent simulator training every 6 months
- Flexible booking: Book as little as 2 hours before departure (subject to availability)
— James Harrington, Chief Commercial Officer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the absolute cheapest private jet option?
The Embraer Phenom 100EV at $3,500/hour is currently the most affordable certified private jet for 4-5 passengers. However, empty-leg deals can reduce costs by up to 70% on any aircraft type.
How do empty-leg flights work?
Empty-leg flights occur when a jet needs to reposition without passengers. We offer these at steep discounts (40-70% off) to offset repositioning costs. Subscribe to our empty-leg alerts for weekly deals.
Are light jets safe for winter weather?
Absolutely. Modern light jets like the Phenom 300E feature heated wings, advanced anti-icing systems, and can operate in temperatures down to -40°C. All Safe Fly Aviation aircraft undergo comprehensive winter maintenance protocols.
Can I bring pets on light jets?
Yes! All our aircraft are pet-friendly. We provide complimentary pet amenities including water bowls and blankets. Just inform us during booking so we can prepare the cabin accordingly.
Ready to Experience Affordable Luxury?
Lock in the lowest rate for your next North American trip with Safe Fly Aviation's transparent pricing and safety-first approach.
Get a personalised quote in under 60 seconds. No obligations, no hidden fees.
Get My Light Jet Quote Now →Contact Safe Fly Aviation
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