Short answer
The safest charter is less about the aircraft model and more about who operates it. A well-maintained aircraft flown by an FAA Part 135 operator with experienced, well-rested pilots and independent safety audits such as ARGUS, Wyvern or IS-BAO is the best predictor of a safe flight. Modern jets like the Gulfstream G650, Global 7500, Praetor 600, Falcon 8X and Citation Latitude add safety technology on top of that, but a well-run midsize jet is safer than a poorly run long-range one.
“Which private jet is the safest?” is one of the most common questions we hear, and the honest answer is that the aircraft model is only part of it. Two identical jets can have very different safety records depending on who maintains them and who flies them.
What Actually Makes a Charter Flight Safe
- The operator’s certificate. In the US, charter flights for hire must be flown by an operator certified under FAA Part 135, which sets stricter rules for pilot training, duty time and maintenance than private flying. Abroad, the local equivalent applies. See Part 135 vs. Part 91.
- Independent audits. ARGUS, Wyvern and IS-BAO review operators beyond the FAA minimum: pilot experience, training, maintenance and safety management systems.
- The crew. Experience in the aircraft type, recent experience at demanding airports such as Aspen, and enough rest before the flight.
- The specific aircraft. Its maintenance history and condition, not just its model.
We use ARGUS- and Wyvern-rated operators, and every trip must also pass Air1 Clearance, our own review of the specific aircraft and crew.
Modern Jets Known for Their Safety Technology
These aircraft are widely admired for their design and technology. They are examples, not a ranking, and they are only as safe as the operator flying them.
Gulfstream G650
A long-range jet with enhanced vision systems and head-up displays that help pilots see the runway environment in darkness and poor weather. See the G650.
Bombardier Global 7500
Bombardier’s flagship, with the Vision flight deck, synthetic vision and very long range, which reduces the need for fuel stops on long trips.
Embraer Praetor 600
A super-midsize jet with full fly-by-wire flight controls, which include protections that help keep the aircraft within safe limits. See the Praetor 600.
Dassault Falcon 8X
Three engines instead of two, plus Dassault’s combined vision system. Falcons are certified for steep approaches at airports such as London City.
Cessna Citation Latitude
A popular midsize jet with Garmin G5000 avionics and a large fleet, which means experienced maintenance support and well-trained crews. See the Citation Latitude.
The Bottom Line
Ask who operates the flight, whether the operator is independently audited, and which aircraft and crew you are getting. A well-maintained, well-crewed midsize jet is a safer choice than a poorly run large one. Read more about how we check operators.
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