On Monday, September 23rd, Business Jet Traveler released its Readers’ Choice Awards, including their favourite aircraft and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) by class and other categories.
1/ Favourite Single-engine Turboprop
The Pilatus PC-12 was found to be the favourite in the single-engine turboprop category. We recently wrote an article on the PC-12 – Arguably the Most Versatile Aircraft Ever Flown. The latest updated version of the PC-12, the PC-12 NGX builds on the rock-solid, 1,700 aircraft foundation of its market-defining predecessor. In over ten million flight hours, the PC-12 has proven itself as the most versatile and valued business aircraft in the world. It’s an original that is impossible to copy. The PC-12 NGX takes this legacy to the next level of refinement, efficiency, and technological advancement.
2/ Favourite Twin-engine Turboprop
The Beechcraft King Air was found to be the favourite in the twin-engine turboprop category. Revered for its exceptional versatility, combining the efficiency of a turboprop with the performance and comfort typically found in larger jets. Its twin-engine design offers enhanced safety and reliability, making it ideal for both short and long-range missions. With a spacious cabin, seating up to 11 passengers, and the ability to access shorter runways, the King Air is perfect for remote destinations.
3/ Favourite Very-light Business Jet
This category was split, the award-winning jet was found to be a tie between the Cessna Citation M2 and the Embraer Phenom 100.
Cessna Citation M2: The Cessna Citation M2 offers an ideal blend of speed, efficiency, and comfort. With seating for up to seven passengers, it boasts a sleek, modern cabin and advanced avionics. Its short runway capabilities and impressive range make it perfect for business or leisure, offering exceptional performance for short-haul trips.
Embraer Phenom 100: The Embraer Phenom 100 is a standout light jet, offering excellent speed, range, and fuel efficiency. With seating for up to 6 passengers, it combines a spacious, luxurious cabin with advanced avionics. Its short runway capabilities and impressive performance make it ideal for both business and leisure travel.
4/ Favourite Light Business Jet
In the light jet category, the Embraer Phenom 300 was the favourite. The Embraer Phenom 300 is renowned for its superior range, speed, and fuel efficiency in the light jet category. It offers a luxurious cabin for up to 10 passengers, advanced avionics, and exceptional performance. With a long range and the ability to access shorter runways, it’s perfect for both business and leisure.
5/ Favourite Midsize Private Jets
The Cessna Citation Latitude narrowly beat out the Embraer Praetor 500.The Cessna Citation Latitude offers an ideal mix of range, cabin space, and performance. With seating for up to 9 passengers, it boasts a spacious, flat-floor cabin, excellent short runway capabilities, and advanced avionics. Its impressive range and comfort make it perfect for both business and leisure mid-range travel.
6/ Favourite Super-midsize Business Jet
The Bombardier Challenger 3500 was the winner of the super-midsize business jet category (with the Gulfstream G280 and the Cessna Citation Longitude close behind.
The Bombardier Challenger 3500 is celebrated for its luxurious cabin, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional performance. With a range of 3,400 nautical miles, it offers spacious seating for up to 10 passengers, fast cruise speeds, and advanced avionics. Its comfort, efficiency, and smooth flight experience make it ideal for business or leisure travel.
7/ Favourite Large-cabin Business Jet
The winner was the Gulfstream G500, narrowly beating its rival Bombardier Global 5500.
The Gulfstream G500 stands out for its blend of speed, range, and advanced technology. With a range of 5,300 nautical miles, it offers exceptional performance, a luxurious cabin for up to 19 passengers, and cutting-edge avionics. Its spacious, quiet cabin and smooth ride make it perfect for long-distance business or leisure travel.
8/ Favourite Ultra-long-range Business Jet
The winner was the Gulfstream 700, which beat the Bombardier Global 7500 by a significant margin.
The Gulfstream G700 is the pinnacle of luxury and performance in private aviation, boasting an impressive range of 7,500 nautical miles and a spacious cabin with multiple living areas. It offers advanced technology, top-tier speed, and unrivalled comfort, making it ideal for ultra-long-haul business or leisure travel worldwide.