Nearly one in two departures
Light jets accounted for 47.59% of global business jet flights in 2025 — 1,673,098 departures out of 3,515,618 worldwide. No other category comes close. Midsize, super-midsize, heavy and ultra-long-range jets split the remaining 52.41%, with no single category exceeding light-jet volume.
That dominance reflects mission economics. Light jets serve the shortest sectors — under 1,500 nm — where speed, airport access and per-hour operating cost matter more than stand-up cabins or intercontinental range. The London to Paris corridor, Europe's busiest city pair, is overwhelmingly a light-jet market.
The models leading the category
The Embraer Phenom 300 was the world's most-flown light jet in 2025 with 262,365 departures — 15.68% of all light-jet flights globally. The Cessna Citation CJ3 ranked third with 77,188 departures (4.61% of category volume). Together, these two models alone account for more than one in five light-jet sectors worldwide.
For charter buyers, model concentration means predictable cabin layouts, established operator pools and competitive pricing on routes where these aircraft are based. Short European missions rarely require stepping up to midsize unless passenger count or baggage volume demands it.
Light jets are not the compromise choice — they are the default choice for the majority of business aviation missions worldwide.
Light jets vs. larger categories
Europe's light-jet share is even higher at 51.19% of continental departures (266,088 flights), though the category declined 1.47% year-over-year in Europe specifically — a sign that super-midsize models are capturing share on intercity routes where cabin comfort matters.
Globally, however, light-jet volume continues to grow in absolute terms alongside the record 6.21% market expansion. The category benefits from the largest installed base, the lowest acquisition cost and the broadest operator network.
Empty-leg implications
Light jets generate the highest absolute count of empty legs because they fly the most sectors. A Phenom 300 repositioning after a one-way charter is a common sight on European empty-leg boards, particularly on leisure corridors during summer season.
Buyers seeking value on short missions should prioritise light-jet empty-leg alerts. Our empty-leg supply briefing and rental cost guide provide the framework for matching category to budget.
When to step up
Light jets suit missions up to 4–6 passengers on sectors under 1,500 nm. When routes extend beyond that range, when headcount exceeds six, or when intercontinental capability is required, buyers should look to midsize or ULR platforms. The 47.59% figure confirms that most missions never need to.
Verified data & source
Figures in this briefing are drawn exclusively from the Avi-Go Global Business Aviation Annual Report 2025 (RD200). Key verified statements:
- Light jets accounted for 47.59% of global business jet flights in 2025 (1,673,098 departures).
- The Embraer Phenom 300 was the world's most-flown light jet in 2025 with 262,365 departures (15.68% of light jet flights globally).
Frequently asked questions
What percentage of global flights were light jets in 2025?
Light jets accounted for 47.59% of global business jet departures in 2025 — 1,673,098 flights.
Which light jet flew most in 2025?
The Embraer Phenom 300 was the world's most-flown light jet with 262,365 departures (15.68% of light-jet volume).
Are light jets cheaper to charter?
Generally yes. Light jets have the lowest hourly operating costs and the largest operator pool, making them the most competitively priced category on short sectors.
Do light jets produce the most empty legs?
In absolute terms, yes — because they fly the most sectors. Light-jet empty legs are common on European leisure corridors during peak season.