Top Midsize Jets for Charter In 2026

Whether you’re flying for business or planning a well-deserved getaway, midsize private jets deliver an exceptional balance of comfort, performance, and refined luxury. Designed to accommodate six to eight travelers, these aircraft offer expanded cabin space, generous headroom, and elevated amenities that go far beyond what light jets provide. From VIP airliners, turboprops, cost-effective small jets, and more, JetOptions offers a curated selection of private aircraft tailored to your travel needs and preferred routes.

Today, we explore select leading midsize jets—featuring celebrated legacy models and standout favorites for 2026.

1. Citation Excel, XLS
2. Gulfstream G150
3. Gulfstream G100
4. Learjet 60
5. Learjet 60XR
6. Hawker 800XP
7. Citation III

This category offers an excellent balance of value and comfort, providing premium amenities and performance without the higher operating costs associated with super-midsize or large-cabin aircraft. Charter costs? Midsize jets typically start at an hourly charter rate of about $4,900, with the final price influenced by several additional factors, including aircraft model, routing, airport selection, seasonal demand, and repositioning requirements.

Citation Excel, XLS

Developed by the aircraft manufacturer Cessna Aircraft Company, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation, the Citation Excel is part of the original Citation 560 series. It first received certification in 1998, and its later models are one of the most sought-after jets in the midsize category. Two PW545 turbofan engines power the Citation Excel aircraft and boast impressive range, speed, and cruising altitudes. 

• Top cruise speed: 423 knots
• Range: 1,890 nautical miles 
• Passengers: 6-8
• Baggage capacity: 79 cubic feet
• Cruise height: 45,000 feet
• Facilities: Enclosed Lavatory Style, refreshment center

The Citation Excel offers versatile coast-to-coast capability, with popular nonstop routes including New York to West Palm Beach, Denver to San Francisco, Atlanta to Boston, and Dallas to Chicago. Inside, passengers enjoy a thoughtfully designed cabin featuring an enclosed lavatory, a well-equipped refreshment center, and one of the largest baggage capacities in its class. The onboard experience is further elevated with a full communications and entertainment suite, including cabin audio systems, personal headsets, a cabin telephone, an Airshow system, and integrated TV monitors. Providing both convenience and comfort throughout the flight.

The newest models, the Citation XLS & XLS+, were introduced in 2004 and 2006 and are among the most popular models of midsize and business jets ever made. 

More, a detailed video tour of the interior & exterior of a Citation Excel aircraft: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCvdZZDDHhw 

Gulfstream G150

The Gulfstream G150, crafted by Gulfstream Aerospace, is a standout in the midsize category, celebrated for its refined cabin experience and remarkable performance. As one of the fastest jets in its class, the G150 combines aerodynamic efficiency with powerful Honeywell engines to deliver exceptional speed and a true continental range. Its engines also meet stringent Stage 4 noise requirements, ensuring a quieter, more comfortable journey for passengers and a seamless experience in noise-sensitive airports.

• Top cruise speed: 470 knots
• Range: 2,760 nautical miles 
• Passengers: 6-8 
• Baggage capacity: 80 cubic feet
• Cruise height: 45,000 feet
• Facilities: Enclosed Lavatory Style

The Gulfstream G150 also boasts fantastic amenities, such as a spacious cabin, plush seating, a galley for in-flight meal preparation, an enclosed lavatory, and entertainment systems. The takeoff and landing requirements of Gulfstream G150 are lower, making them suitable for a wide range of airports. 

More, a detailed video tour of the interior & exterior of a Gulfstream G150 aircraft: https://youtu.be/jxWTA-Wydag 

Gulfstream G100

A G1A G100 midsize jet charter, certified initially by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 1995, represents one of Gulfstream Aerospace’s earlier-generation designs. While considered a legacy aircraft today, the Gulfstream G100 still offers a comfortably sized cabin for its class and the ability to operate long-range routes, including nonstop flights such as Seattle to New York or Singapore to Tokyo. Though not a top modern choice, it remains a practical option for travelers seeking legacy performance at a more accessible charter price point.

• Top cruise speed: 430 knots
• Range: 2,550 nautical miles 
• Passengers: 8
• Baggage capacity: 42 cubic feet
• Cruise height: 43,000 feet
• Facilities: Enclosed Lavatory Style

Along with a spacious cabin, the Gulfstream G100 has luxurious seating, a galley for in-flight meal preparation, an enclosed lavatory, and entertainment systems. It can fly at impressive altitudes where air traffic is almost absent, and weather conditions are favorable. 

Here’s a detailed video tour of the interior & exterior of a Gulfstream G100 aircraft: https://youtu.be/j1nvqrOtzoc 

Learjet 60 & 60XR

Manufactured by Bombardier Aerospace, the Learjet 60 is a legacy midsize business jet that enjoyed more than two decades as one of the top-selling models in its class. Long regarded as a benchmark for midsize jet performance, the Learjet 60 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305A turbofan engines, each delivering 4,600 pounds of thrust. Known for their strong thrust-to-weight ratio, reliability, and fuel efficiency, these engines contribute to the aircraft’s impressive climb rates and solid overall performance. While no longer a leading modern choice, the Learjet 60 remains a respected legacy option for travelers seeking speed and value in a classic midsize jet.

• Top cruise speed: 447 knots
• Range: 2,405 nautical miles 
• Passengers: 7-8
• Baggage capacity: 59 cubic feet
• Cruise height: 43,000 feet
• Facilities: Enclosed Lavatory Style

The Learjet 60 is notable for its efficient and quick climb rates. It can scale to high altitudes and can achieve Mach 0.81. The cabin facilities include ample legroom, a spacious galley, a CD/DVD/Airshow entertainment system, and an enclosed lavatory. 

Learjet 60XR

The Learjet 60XR is a refined evolution of the classic Learjet 60, offering upgraded performance, improved handling, and a significantly modernized cabin—the most spacious in the Learjet series. Manufactured by Bombardier Aerospace, beginning in 2006, the 60XR features advanced avionics, enhanced interior styling, and increased operational efficiency, making it a strong contender in the modern midsize charter market. Known for its excellent speed and competitive cruising range, the aircraft remains popular for corporate travel clients seeking a blend of agility, comfort, and value. Its reliability and performance have also made it a trusted platform for government and military operators worldwide.

• Top cruise speed: 459 knots
• Range: 2,044 nautical miles 
• Passengers: 6-8
• Baggage capacity: 59 cubic feet
• Cruise height: 51,000 feet
• Facilities: Enclosed Lavatory Style

The Learjet 60XR is the first line-of-business jet to use PW305 turbofan engines instead of General Electric engines. Its wings feature drag-reducing winglets. Various amenities include a well-equipped galley for in-flight meal preparation, an enclosed lavatory, and advanced entertainment systems. The cabins are equipped with a four-seat club, two additional forward-facing seats, or a three-seat divan.

Here’s a detailed video tour of the interior & exterior of a Learjet 60XR: https://youtu.be/DKS_iRw3hEc 

Hawker 800XP

The Hawker 800XP is part of the long-running and highly respected Hawker midsize jet series, initially produced by Hawker Beechcraft. Although the aircraft remained popular for business aviation, the company’s acquisition by Textron Aviation in 2013 brought an end to new production of the Hawker line—including the 800XP, 850XP, and 900XP models. Today, the 800XP remains a well-regarded legacy charter option, known for its comfortable cabin, dependable performance, and strong operating efficiency. Even now, Hawker 800XP remains one of the best charter jets in the midsize category.

The Hawker 800XP  is powered by a pair of Honeywell TFE731-5BR-1H turbofan engines, delivering reliable performance and efficient operating characteristics. Known for being exceptionally pilot-friendly, the aircraft features a modernized avionics suite that includes GPS navigation, dual autopilot, and a complete TCAS II system—enhancing situational awareness and ensuring a smooth, confident flight experience for both crew and passengers.

• Top cruise speed: 447 knots
• Range: 2,642 nautical miles 
• Passengers: 6-8
• Baggage capacity: 48 cubic feet
• Cruise height: 41,000 feet
• Facilities: Enclosed Lavatory Style

Citation III

The CE-650, widely known as the Citation III, is a legacy midsize jet developed by Cessna and long appreciated for its blend of comfort and performance. Its spacious cabin provides a relaxed travel experience with ample luggage capacity, and its lightweight composite construction was designed to improve speed and reduce drag—innovative for its era. Powered by two Honeywell TFE731-3B-100S engines that meet FAR Part 36 noise standards, the Citation III delivers dependable performance at a more accessible operating cost. While no longer considered a top modern option, it remains a practical legacy charter choice for both business travelers and leisure passengers seeking value and reliability.

 Citation III is perfect for both business travelers and vacationers alike. 

• Top cruise speed: 476 knots
• Range: 2,138 nautical miles 
• Passengers: 7-8
• Baggage capacity: 61 cubic feet
• Cruise height: 45,000 feet
• Facilities: Enclosed Lavatory Style

Here’s a detailed video tour of the interior & exterior of a Citation III aircraft: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Y8Aydn9DDw 

While the III remains a solid legacy option for both business travelers and vacationers, offering reliability and value for a wide range of missions, many charter clients today prefer newer midsize models with enhanced cabin comfort, technology, and range. Modern choices such as the Citation XLS+ and Citation Latitude deliver upgraded performance, quieter cabins, and advanced avionics, making them popular alternatives for travelers seeking a more contemporary private-jet experience.

With that, we wrap up the top Midsize Jets charter in 2026. If you’d like a premium upgrade to these jets, consider the best super midsize jets in our fleet. 

Why JetOptions?

JetOptions is an ARGUS and Wyvern-registered charter provider, delivering a standard of safety and professionalism that exceeds FAA requirements. Our clients enjoy the flexibility to book any aircraft, anytime, anywhere—often with departure times available in as little as two to three hours. Every flight is covered by industry-leading insurance ranging from $50,000,000 to $250,000,000, ensuring complete confidence from takeoff to landing.

As part of our 24/7 Complimentary Concierge service, we coordinate medical escort staff, security arrangements, ground transportation, luxury hotels, and more. You will always have direct access to a dedicated Aviation Account Executive, guaranteeing personalized support at every step of your journey.

• JetOptions delivers competitive market rates without compromising aircraft quality, safety, or comfort. Clients also benefit from true one-way charter opportunities on select routes and complimentary upgrades when available.

Contact JetOptions to plan your next business trip with ease and total peace of mind—we’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most.

Both comments and pings are currently closed.