For anyone looking to buy a private jet, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Among the many factors to consider are price, performance, comfort, and safety. In this blog, we’re going to take a closer look at two popular private jets and compare them: the Bombardier Learjet 31 and the Pilatus PC-24. Both have their unique advantages, but which one ranks higher? Let’s find out.

Performance

The Learjet 31 is a high-performance private jet that can reach a top speed of Mach 0.81 or 870 km/h. It has a maximum range of 1,994 nautical miles or 3,692 kilometers, which means it can fly non-stop from New York to Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the Pilatus PC-24 has a top speed of Mach 0.72 or 740 km/h and a maximum range of 2,040 nautical miles or 3,778 kilometers, which also allows it to do non-stop transcontinental flights.

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Comfort

The Learjet 31 has a cabin width of 5.9 feet, allowing for six to seven passengers to sit comfortably. Its rectangular-shaped cabin provides ample headroom and legroom, and a separate baggage compartment is spacious enough to accommodate up to eight pieces of luggage. The Pilatus PC-24, on the other hand, has a spacious cabin width of 5.5 feet, which means passengers can stand up and walk around during the flight. It can also be configured for a nine-person seating capacity and offers plenty of storage space for luggage.

Safety

The Learjet 31 and the Pilatus PC-24 are both considered safe private jets according to their respective manufacturers. However, the PC-24 has a distinct safety advantage with its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities. Thanks to its advanced wing design and powerful engines, it can take-off and land on runways as short as 2,930 feet or 893 meters. This means it can land on smaller airports that other private jets can’t, providing more flexibility in terms of travel options.

Price

The Learjet 31 and the Pilatus PC-24 have different price points. The Learjet 31 has a list price of around $3.3 million, while the Pilatus PC-24 starts at around $10.7 million. The latter’s higher price tag can be attributed to its advanced features, including the aforementioned STOL capabilities, a larger cabin, and higher maximum takeoff weight.

Maintenance

Both the Learjet 31 and Pilatus PC-24 require regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. The Learjet 31’s engines need to be overhauled every 4,200 flight hours or eight years, whichever comes first. Meanwhile, the Pilatus PC-24 has a longer maintenance interval of 5,000 flight hours or ten years, whichever comes first. However, its maintenance costs can be higher due to its advanced features and higher complexity.

Choosing between the Bombardier Learjet 31 and the Pilatus PC-24 ultimately comes down to personal preferences. If you’re looking for a high-performance private jet with a spacious cabin and ample baggage space, the Learjet 31 is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize safety, flexibility, and cutting-edge features, the Pilatus PC-24 may be the better option. At the end of the day, it’s important to do proper research and talk to private jet experts to make an informed decision.