Jet Advisors

Jet Advisors President Interviewed for CBS News Regarding Corporate Jet Downsizing

2009-04-06T08:16:00.001-06:00

Kevin O’Leary gives his two cents about the effects of the recession on the private jet market

Broomfield, Colo. March 30, 2009 – Kevin O’Leary’s professional advice on current trends of the private jet market is featured in the article: “TARP Banks: Downsizing Their Jets.” Mr. O’Leary explains that private jet sales continue to suffer and have acquired a great deal of negative press. However, O’Leary projects a slight turnaround.

CBS News investigative producer Laura Strickler covered the story in which she describes the pressures of yet another corporation to downsize their private jets in response to the economic recession. Many companies are scaling back despite low returns, in an effort to reverse negative public relations.

Strickler says, “Kevin O’Leary of the private aviation consulting firm Jet Advisors, says when he compares the first two months of 2009 to the first two months of 2008 he sees a 71% increase in inventory and sales are down by 56%. But he says that while jets were being sold at “fire sale” prices a few months ago, sometimes $10 million below market value, prices have recently gone up. He says he is seeing more corporate jets in the marketplace and he attributes it to pressure from the public and the Obama administration, ‘A private jet has a bad connotation right now.’”

The article ran on March 25, 2009. A full-version can be viewed at http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/03/25/cbsnews_investigates/main4893176.shtml?source=search_story.

TAG Aviation’s Regional Vice President of Aircraft Acquisition and Sales Joins Jet Advisors as VP of Sales

2009-04-01T07:15:00.002-07:00

Eugene Clow, expert in private jet sales and acquisitions, will bring over 35 years of industry experience to the staff of Jet Advisors

Broomfield, Colo. March 20, 2009 – TAG Aviation’s Regional Vice President of Aircraft Acquisition and Sales Joins Jet Advisors as VP of Sales.

Eugene Clow, expert in private jet sales and acquisitions, will bring over 35 years of industry experience to the staff of Jet Advisors.

The private jet brokerage company, Jet Advisors, announced the addition of aviation professional, Mr. Gene Clow, to its growing staff. Mr. Clow has been named VP of Sales and will be an asset to the company.

With over 35 years of experience in the industry to date, Mr. Clow has held highly-regarded positions at Raytheon Aircraft, Flight Safety, and most recently, TAG Aviation.

A few of Mr. Clows accomplishments to date include being awarded the "Blue Chip" in 1995 and 1998, being named the 1995 "Rookie of the Year" and the 1989 "Salesman of the Year," developing revenue of corporate jet transactions in a 17 state region and establishing the worldwide marketing program for aircraft simulators.

Mr. Clow has Advanced Flight training on the King Air 350, King Air B200, King Air C90B, BeechJet 400A, Boeing 737 and Boeing 757. In addition, he holds a BS in Business Management from Portland State University in Portland, OR.

About Jet Advisors:
Jet Advisors was founded to assist Aircraft Owners/Buyers and Fractional Share Owners in managing their private jet needs. The Broomfield, Colorado-based company routinely handles private jet sales and acquisitions, and fractional and private jet consulting. With one hundred years of combined industry experience and hundreds of aircraft transactions, Jet Advisors is able to provide the most accurate, insightful and objective information available in each unique private jet transaction process.

Robb Report Aviation Board wants Jet Advisors President

2009-03-18T10:25:00.002-07:00

Broomfield, Colo. (PRWEB) February 16, 2009 – Jet Advisors President Kevin O’Leary has been personally asked to join Robb Report’s Private Aviation Advisory Board. The invitation is not only a compliment to O’Leary but to Jet Advisors as well.

Robb Report magazine targets the “ultra-affluent, sophisticated” consumer, providing detailed information in categories that include sports and luxury automobiles, yachts, real estate, travel, private aircraft, fashion, fine jewelry and watches, art, wine and state-of-the-art home electronics.

O’Leary will serve on the company’s private aviation advisory board, whose main objectives are to provide Robb Report members with expert recommendations on private jet models and options, and to help locate available offers. Other duties of the board include compiling noteworthy reports about the industry, as well as composing professional guides to the variety of private flying choices.

With extensive knowledge and experience in the private jet industry, O’Leary will be able to add another credible opinion to the aviation board.

O’Leary will be attending a meeting in New York City on February 17, along with six other board members. These professionals will collaborate to discuss what’s currently happening in the industry.

Investment News Article

2009-02-20T11:17:00.002-07:00

Jet Advisors President Featured in InvestmentNews Report

Kevin O’Leary talks status of aircraft market and a silver-lining

Broomfield, Colo. (PRWEB) February 11, 2009 – InvestmentNews correspondent Mark Bruno contacted Kevin O’Leary for a reliable overview of the current status of the aircraft market, especially after the negative press that corporations have been receiving. Although the numbers speak for themselves, O’Leary acknowledged a silver-lining in the industry’s slump.

O’Leary told InvestmentNews, in an article entitled, “Banks bail out of jets,” that the aircraft market has experienced a rapid decline in the past few months after its steady fall in months prior. In spite of this trend, O’Leary expressed that things are picking back up and the market will start to stabilize and then recover. This means that the current situation may be a great opportunity to buy. There are plenty of deals in the market and financing is becoming more readily available to potential customers. A purchase would be a great investment for when the market does turn around.

Bruno quotes O’Leary in the article multiple times: “There are so few buyers out there at the moment, yet the number of sellers is growing constantly,” and again explaining, “If you want to move something right now, you have to lower your asking price to a number where a buyer just can't say no."

O’Leary also mentioned the large numbers of corporate jets for sale, growing from four or five last year to well over 30, and for prices up to 40% less.

The article featuring Jet Advisors President Kevin O’Leary, “Banks bail out of jets,” was published February 15 in InvestmentNews, and is also available at http://www.investmentnews.com.

About Jet Advisors:
Jet Advisors was founded to assist Aircraft Owners/Buyers and Fractional Share Owners in managing their private jet needs. The Broomfield, Colorado-based company routinely handles private jet sales and acquisitions, fractional jet and private jet consulting. With one hundred years of combined industry experience and hundreds of aircraft transactions, Jet Advisors is able to provide the most accurate, insightful and objective information available in each unique private jet transaction process.

Contact:
Jet Advisors
(303) 410-1900
http://www.jetadvisors.com

info provided by http://www.jetadvisors.com/

private jet advisors

Rocky Mountain Airport Colorado Springs, CO

2008-12-01T10:09:00.004-07:00

Runway Length 13,500
Runway Width 150
Elevation 6,184

Latitude 38 48'21"N

Longitude 104 42' 1"W

provided by http://www.jetadvisors.com

Gulfstream G450

2008-04-14T15:05:00.000-06:00

The Gulfstream 400 was a central figure in the large-cabin private jet lineup since its introduction to the market, and the Gulfstream 450 lives up to its standards. It can fly eight passengers and three crew members from Tokyo to Seattle at a speed of .80 Mach. Everything from its engines to its flight control systems are high-performing and reliable.
Between fourteen and eighteen passengers should ride comfortably in the Gulfstream 450’s 1,513 cubic foot cabin. Passengers can stand up in the 6.2 foot high cabin and will enjoy the 7.4 foot width and 45.1 foot length (an 18 inch increase from the G-III). The 169 cubic feet of baggage space is accessible in-flight. Two full-length closets for coat storage are located inside the two fully enclosed lavatories.

There are plenty of cabin features that should make transcontinental and transoceanic flights enjoyable. Standard and optional electronic offerings include a CD, VHS, and DVD player, two LCD screens, individual headphones at each seat for the cabin audio system, a fax machine, and satellite phones. In case those features aren’t enough, a full-sized galley, power plugs, work tables, and a LAN connection are included as well. Electronics, lighting, and the two-zone temperature control system can be controlled from several different locations in the cabin.
The Gulfstream 450’s Rolls-Royce Tay Mk 611-8C engines are built around the high-pressure engine core of the Spey RB.183-555, which has successfully documented thousands of hours of flight time in various other commercial and private jets. The Rolls-Royce Tay engine, however, gets 2,600 pounds more thrust on takeoff than the Spey. The Tay engines produce 13,850 pounds of thrust each, allowing a sea level takeoff in 5,450 feet.

Much of the Gulfstream 450’s speed and range capabilities can be attributed to some small improvements to the structure. A new wing design cut down on drag and allowed for an increased fuel capacity, totaling 29,500 pounds. Overall weight was reduced by about 500 pounds due to the use of Kevlar and graphite-epoxy composites in some parts of the cabin and engine nacelles.

The fully integrated cockpit is taken up entirely by four Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT) that display all flight, systems, and navigation information. The full-color CRTs replace the mass of electromechanical instruments and displays that usually take up the control panel. Color radar, dual Flight Management Systems (FMS), navigation computers, and Engine Instrument and Crew Alert Systems (EICAS) are provided by Sperry Flight Systems. The new Enhanced Vision System (EVS) can create an infrared image of the view from the cockpit and displays it on the Head-Up Display (HUD) of the pilot. This image is accurate enough to show details like lights and reflective strips on the runway, enabling the pilot to fly and even land in low-visibility conditions.

Global Express

2008-04-01T15:11:00.001-07:00

The Global Express was the pioneer of ultra-long-range private jets. At the time of its release, no other private jet had a cabin nearly as large, nor could any jet make such long-range direct flights, like New York to Tokyo or Paris to Singapore. The Global Express offers everything an airliner does – range, comfort, and speed –- without the hassle.

The cabin of the Global Express is designed to be comfortable for the duration of long transoceanic flights. The cabin can be configured to hold between thirteen and nineteen passengers in a cabin that is 6.3 feet high, 8.2 feet wide, and 48.4 feet long. The cabin can be divided into three areas for conferences for increased privacy. Two fully-enclosed lavatories are in the cabin, one of which can be equipped with a shower, if desired. Extensive cabin insulation cuts down on noise and improved engines produce less audible vibration. There is a wide range of standard and optional cabin amenities, including a 17 channel satcom, fax machine, cabin entertainment system with VHS, DVD, and CD players, as well as individual video screens, and a full-sized galley.

The engines themselves are BMW/Rolls-Royce BR710A2-20 turbofans, which produce 14,750 pounds of thrust each on takeoff. The Global Express can climb to 37,000 feet in nineteen minutes. Its maximum certified flight ceiling is 51,000 feet, but it generally cruises around 42,000 feet –well above most commercial and private jets. For long-distance flights the Global Express can reach speeds of 488 knots, and reach 499 knots when cruising at high speed. Fortunately, one of the strengths of the Global Express is its ability to fly at high speeds without sacrificing range. Its maximum range is 7,000 miles (6,100 nautical miles) at a speed of .85 Mach.

The avionics and flight control systems were designed to be intuitive and easy to operate. Many systems require almost no input from the pilots. The cabin pressurization system, for example, automatically adjusts the cabin pressure throughout the flight. All that the pilot has to do is enter the altitude of the runway of the initial and final destinations. The cabin is rated to 10 psi, meaning it can maintain a sea level cabin while at an altitude of 26,500 feet. Engine startup is very simple as well, as is the fuel balance system, which automatically adjusts the fuel levels in the two wet wing tanks. Besides being easy to fly, the Global Express is very reliable. Most of its critical systems has two or three backup systems.

The avionics system used in the Global Express is the Honeywell Primus 2000XP suite. It has six 7 x 8 inch screens. Some screen display flight and environment information, while others are blank (to minimize distractions) except when notifying the pilots of an emergency. The avionics system comes standard with a triple LASEREF IV inertial reference system, a GPS receiver, avionics computers, nav/comm radios, and can be configured to include almost any piece of avionics equipment desired.

Learjet 36

2008-03-31T03:20:00.000-07:00

The Learjet 36 is the new and improved version of the Lear 35. The 35’s boasting rights came from its range, and the Lear 36 only expanded on that asset. It can fly 1,530 miles (1,330 nautical miles) nonstop. That means direct flights from San Francisco to Honolulu. Good handling characteristics, low fuel burn, and fast cruise speeds are part of the Lear 36’s assets as well.

A maximum of six passengers can travel in the Lear 36’s cabin. It is 12.9 feet long, 4.9 feet wide, and 4.4 feet high. There are 40 cubic feet of baggage space, enough to hold about eight standard-sized suitcases.

The real strength of the Learjet 36 is its range, takeoff, and cruise capabilities. Two Honeywell TFE731-2-2B engines provide 3,500 pounds of thrust, allowing the Lear 36 to take off in 4,972 feet. The maximum take off weight is pretty high as well at 18,300 pounds.

Components of the TFE731-2-2B engines are used in much higher-performing jets as well. Their pressure compressors were taken from the Garret 660-series engine, which is used on 747s. Their turbine components come from DC-10s, and the high-pressure impellers are a modified version of the one used in the TPE 331 and T76 engines.

The Learjet 36 is has a relatively long range for a private jet, and can cruise at speeds as high as 451 ktas, or 424 ktas with four passengers. Fuel consumption is excellent: the 31A burns only 177 pounds of fuel per hour. For comparison’s sake, that’s 14 pounds fewer than the Hawker 400XP and 64 pounds fewer than the Citation VI.

A few other details make the Lear 36 a popular private jet. First of all, it meets FAR part 36 noise standards, making it a kind of “good neighbor” at airports. Furthermore, the avionics system is completely redesigned from previous models, giving pilots an uncluttered control panel that is easy to work with. Pilots have also commented on its agility and excellent performance capabilities.

The Learjet 36 is a high-performing business jet that meets the standards of excellence of a private jet in the Lear series. It is rare to find private jets that can fly as fast, as far, or as economically as the Lear 36.

Learjet 45

2008-03-06T16:35:00.002-07:00

New models of private jets come out every year, but it’s only once in a while that a jet is released that is truly innovative. The Learjet 45 is one of the rare jets that seamlessly integrates new technology with a tested and successful older design. Its speed and economy are to be expected – it is a Learjet, after all – but the rest of its small features add up to a high-quality private jet. The Learjet 45’s cabin holds eight seats, usually in a double club layout, with plenty of room to swivel, recline, and track. The cabin’s length and width is 59 inches and 61 inches, respectively. Don’t be mislead by the measurements; the interior of the Learjet 45 was designed to offer the most usable passenger space possible so the passengers don’t feel claustrophobic.

Other fine points of the cabin’s design make it useful and comfortable, from work tables that fold down from the walls to an extra pressure relief port on the door for added passenger safety. The noise level in the cabin never exceeds 72 dB and a two-zone temperature control system ensures that both the cabin and the cockpit are kept comfortable. An external compartment provides 80 cubic feet of baggage space.The Learjet 45 can fly 2,471 miles (2,147 nautical miles) nonstop and can cruise at 517 mph. Two AlliedSignal TFE731-20AR turbofan engines provide 3,500 pounds of thrust each on takeoff.

The standards for anti-ice systems were stiffened by the FAA while the Learjet 45 was still in the design phase. It comes as no surprise that the resulting private jet had the most advanced anti-ice system of any light- or mid-sized jet. The engine anti-icing system was completely redesigned for better ice removal. Bleed air load balancing software increases the engines’ total thrust, and improves the rate of climb while the ice removal system is in use. The software distributes the bleed air system between the two engines so that they perform uniformly. The Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics system includes four large-format EFIS (ERO Frequency Information Systems) and a 3-D approach navigation system through a Universal UNS-1C FMS. For the first time in a Learjet, there are no restrictions on the lateral and vertical approach guidance simulations.

***

For more information about the Learjet 45, or for help in purchasing or selling a Learj45, contact Kevin O'Leary at 303-410-1900.

Learjet 31A

2008-02-18T15:22:00.002-07:00

For those unfamiliar with Learjets, their name is a synonym for speed. The Learjet 31 can reach a cruise speed of .81 Mach after climbing to its cruise level in just 28 minutes -- way beyond the capabilities of any competing light private jets. It has great runway performance and a low fuel burn, making it a great candidate for efficient, fast private jet travel.

The Learjet 31A’s cabin can carry up to eight passengers in its 17.1 foot-long cabin. Sixty-seven feet of baggage space are available, or about the equivalent of six sets of skis and four golf bags.
Two Garret TFE 731-2 engines provide 3,500 pounds of thrust each, giving this jet the ability to outperform the rest of the private jets in its class. It has a range of 1,610 miles (1,400 nautical miles) with four passengers, and performs well even in extreme temperatures and at high altitudes.

It can take off in 3,280 feet at sea level at its maximum take-off weight, significantly surpassing other light jets’ runway performance. Another area in which the Learjet 31A outperforms its competitors is in its climb rate – it can reach an altitude of 47,000 feet in only 28 minutes. Furthermore, at cruise altitude it flies at .81 Mach (458 ktas), making it the best light private jet in the speed category as well.

The Learjet 31A has excellent in-flight performance. Its rapid acceleration and rapid response capabilities make it a favorite among pilots. This jet is known for its smooth flights and good performance even outside the recommended flight envelope.

The strong point of the Learjet 31A is its avionics system. The Bendix/King suite has a KFC 3100 autopilot system, complete with automatic climb and descent modes that control the jet’s flight for the best possible performance. The control board is configured to make the pilot’s job as straightforward as possible – systems and circuit breakers are grouped together by function and have small EFIS displays to summarize activity. The layout of the controls makes the systems easier to read and cuts back on clutter. The Learjet 31A’s systems are so comprehensive that it meets the FAA safety standards mandatory for major airliners.

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For more information about the Learjet 31A, or for help in purchasing or selling one, contact Kevin O'Leary at koleary@jetadvisors.com or at 303-410-1900

Piaggio P-180 Avanti

2008-02-17T22:43:00.000-07:00

The Italian private jet manufacturer Piaggio Aero company, like all other private jet manufacturers, announced their goals for the Piaggio P-180 before they started building it. They wanted a light private jet that could cruise at 400 knots, fly at more than 40,000 feet, have a 2,000 mile range, as well as be fuel-efficient and have a comfortable cabin. Considering the fact that no other private jet manufacturer had been able to create a jet that met such specifications, Piaggio had to be truly innovative in making the P-180.

Usually the cabin comes at the end of the design process of a private jet (which explains the oddly-shaped, cramped cabins that are ubiquitous among light private jets). Piaggio instead started by building a comfortable, large cabin, and then building rest of the jet around it. The spacious cabin seats seven passengers in full-sized seats. There is almost no vibration and the noise levels are low. There is baggage space available for about six suitcases and a few golf bags, a total of 44 cubic feet. And, true to Italian form, it is extremely stylish.

The most noticeable feature of the Piaggio is its wings – to be exact, it has three sets. These three sets effectively distribute flight loads and provide three lifting surfaces. The sets of smaller wings total a smaller amount of wing area than is usually distributed over a single wing, but manage to cut down on the Piaggio’s structure weight, drag, and increase lift. The engineers of Piaggio Aero designed the P180’s structure with the help of NASA software and perfected it with over 4,600 hours of wind tunnel testing.

Not surprisingly, the Piaggio takes off quickly (in less than 3,000 feet) and climbs to its flight level of 41,000 feet. At the time of its release, it was the fastest turboprop on the market with a cruise speed of up to 400 knots. It can fly more than 2,000 miles, which far surpasses the average high-speed cruise distance of competing jets. Not only is the Piaggio high-performing, it is economical. It has high fuel efficiency, a low specific fuel consumption, and can be flown by a single pilot.

The Piaggio’s six-blade turboprops are powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-66 engines, flat rated to 850 shp for improved efficiency. The heavy wing loading of the Piaggio provides for smooth handling in turbulence and solid, high flight level handling. The cabin is rated to 9.0 psi, meaning it can maintain a sea-level cabin at up to 24,000 feet.

The P180 uses the Rockwell Collins Avionics suite in the cockpit. The system is designed to be highly intuitive – switches and controls are grouped by function, and five sleek screens display systems information. WXR-840 solid-state weather radar and Universal UNS-1kFMS systems come standard for enhance situational awareness. A Rockwell Collins TWR-850 Doppler turbulence detection radar can be included if requested.

CJ4

2008-02-04T21:36:00.001-07:00

Cessna’s latest private jet hasn’t been certified yet, but some details have already been released about how it will differ from the CJ3:

Has shorter wing than CJ3
Cruises at .75 Mach
Uses two Williams International FJ44-4 engines
Uses Pro Line 21 Avionics suite
Increased fuel capacity

Learjet 45

2008-02-03T20:07:00.000-07:00

The Learjet 45’s cabin holds eight seats, usually in a double club layout, with plenty of room to swivel, recline, and track. The cabin’s length and width is 59 inches and 61 inches, respectively. Don’t be mislead by the measurements; the interior of the Learjet 45 was designed to offer the most usable passenger space possible so the passengers don’t feel claustrophobic.

Other fine points of the cabin’s design make it useful and comfortable, from work tables that fold down from the walls to an extra pressure relief port on the door for added passenger safety. The noise level in the cabin never exceeds 72 dB and a two-zone temperature control system ensures that both the cabin and the cockpit are kept comfortable. An external compartment provides 80 cubic feet of baggage space.

The Learjet 45 can fly 2,471 miles (2,147 nautical miles) nonstop and can cruise at 517 mph. Two AlliedSignal TFE731-20AR turbofan engines provide 3,500 pounds of thrust each on takeoff.
The standards for anti-ice systems were stiffened by the FAA while the Learjet 45 was still in the design phase. It comes as no surprise that the resulting private jet had the most advanced anti-ice system of any light- or mid-sized jet. The engine anti-icing system was completely redesigned for better ice removal. Bleed air load balancing software increases the engines’ total thrust, and improves the rate of climb while the ice removal system is in use. The software distributes the bleed air system between the two engines so that they perform uniformly.

The Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics system includes four large-format EFIS (ERO Frequency Information Systems) and a 3-D approach navigation system through a Universal UNS-1C FMS. For the first time in a Learjet, there are no restrictions on the lateral and vertical approach guidance simulations.

***

For more information about the Learjet 45, contact Kevin O'Leary at 303-410-1900 or at koleary@jetadvisors.com

Gulfstream 550 GV-SP

2008-02-01T13:45:00.000-07:00

It says a lot to the be among the first to pioneer something new, an honor which is the Gulfstream 550 deserves. It was one of the original private jets in the ultra-long-range class; at the time of its release it had the longest range (7,760 miles/6,750 nautical miles). It can complete trips of over fourteen hours and easily fly from Tokyo to New York or from New York to the southernmost tip of South America.

The cabin of the Gulfstream 550 is 50.1 feet long, 6.2 feet high, and 7.3 feet wide, for a total cabin volume of 1,669 cubic feet. Its extra-wide oval windows are unique to Gulfstreams and provide plenty of light and a great view. The cabin usually seats between fourteen and nineteen people. The size of the Gulfstream 550’s cabin is similar to that of the Gulfstream 500, but the layout has been modified to be more space-efficient. 226 cubic feet of internal baggage storage is available, a total of 2,500 pounds.

Other standard and optional cabin amenities include an Airshow 400 flight information system, a radio/satellite phone, fax machine, two LCD monitors, a DVD and CD player, wireless LAN, and power outlets. The two-zone temperature control system, which provides only fresh air, can be controlled from several locations in the cabin. Noise levels in the cabin are low, but additional sound proofing can be added if desired.

The Gulfstream 550 is equipped with two Rolls-Royce Deutschland BR700-710C4-11 engines, each able to produce 15,385 pounds of thrust on takeoff. Runway requirements for a sea level takeoff is 5,910 feet, at an elevation of 5,000 feet and a temperature of 77˚F, the required length is 9,010 feet. The Gulfstream 550 can climb directly to 37,000 feet in eighteen minutes.
The avionics suite of the Gulfstream 550 is unique among private jets. Gulfstream’s Plane View Cockpit is based on the Honeywell Primus Epic Suite. It is unique because it includes the Honeywell Head-Up Display (HUD) and visual guidance system as well as the Gulfstream Enhanced Vision System (EVS), which together allow pilots to complete instrument in very low-visibility conditions. The EVS and HUD create a real-time display of the runway and the surrounding area with infrared sensors. The light sensors are accurate enough to display the reflective lights on the runway stripes. This system allows landings to take place in conditions that practically every other private jet cannot.

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for more information about the G550 or other private jets, contact Kevin O'Leary at 303-410-1900 or at koleary@jetadvisors.com

Learjet 40

2008-01-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

The Learjet is quite a contender in the competitive private jet market. Its cruise speed, cabin space, and technological advancement are greater than other light private jets. It has excellent range/payload flexibility and climbs quickly to elevations far above most air traffic and bad weather. Its range allows for nonstop flights from Chicago to San Francisco or from Singapore to Hong Kong -- trips that few other light private jets could complete.

The Learjet 40’s cabin is, to the pleasure of its marketing department, the biggest of its class. It stretches to a length of 17.7 feet, a width of 5.12 feet, and a height of 4.92 feet, which works out to a total cabin volume of 363 cubic feet. There are seats available for seven passengers, and baggage compartments that can store 65 cubic feet of baggage.

The Learjet 40 also outperforms the competition while in the air. Its average cruise speed is 457 ktas (.79 Mach), but can cruise as fast as 464 ktas (.81 Mach). It can fly up to 2,248 miles (1,954 nautical miles) nonstop and take off in 4,285 feet at high altitudes. Its runway capabilities at sea level are less than 3,400 pounds. Even when loaded to its maximum takeoff weight of 20,350 pounds it can take off in just 4,250 feet from a sea level runway.

Despite the high speeds of the Learjet 40, it has relatively economical fuel consumption due to its aerodynamic design that cuts down on drag and its two fuel-efficient Honeywell TFE731-20AR-1B engines.

The Honeywell Primus 1000 digital avionics suite certainly keeps up with the high-performing jet: its four cathode ray tube screens are located at logical positions on the control panel. The designers of the Learjet 40 paid a lot of attention to arranging the avionics in an easy-to-use, logical layout, ultimately making the pilot’s job easier – and each flight safer.

*****

Questions about the Learjet 40? Interested in finding one, or need help selling yours? Call Kevin O'Leary at 303-410-1900 or e-mail him at koleary@jetadvisors.com

Boeing Business Jet (BBJ)

2008-01-28T01:07:00.000-07:00

The Boeing Business Jet is a member of the venerated 737 family. The 737s collectively have over 60 million hours of flight time and are still in high demand in the commercial aviation market. The BBJ sold more than a hundred planes in just four years of production, and orders continue to come in. No other private jet offers as much cabin space or reliability. After all, the BBJ is a descendant of commercial aircraft, designed to last decades.

The Boeing Business Jet’s full name is the BBJ 737-700 IGW. IGW stands for “Increased Gross Weight,” much of which is due to its massive cabin. The total cabin volume is 5,390 cubic feet and can be configured almost any way desired. Most configurations divide the cabin into four compartments (in addition to a crew rest area). The four compartments generally consist of a board room, a lounge, a VIP bedroom (with a queen-sized bed, if desired), a business office, and two lavatories with showers.

The BBJ, despite its size and its maximum take off weight of 171,000 pounds, can take off from a sea level runway in 5,885 feet. At an altitude of 5,000 feet and a temperature of 77˚F, the required runway distance increases to 9,645 feet. For comparison’s sake, the average takeoff distance of heavy private jets at sea level is 5,500 feet. The average MTOW of these private jets is 52,000 pounds, 30% of the BBJ’s MTOW.

Another area in which the massive BBJ performs like one of the smaller heavy private jets is in its climb rate. It climbs directly to 37,000 feet in 25 minutes. At this altitude it achieves its high speed cruise of 470 ktas. At 39,000 feet it gets optimal long range cruise performance of 451 ktas. Its range, with eight passengers and required NBAA IFR reserves, is 6,098 nautical miles. It can easily complete trips from Denver to Tokyo or from Los Angeles to Frankfurt – distance is no limitation. Its required amount of runway for landing will not be a limiting factor, either: when carrying four passengers and NBAA IFR reserves, the BBJ needs only 2,330 feet to land.

The Boeing Business Jet is pretty economical as far as ultra-long-range jets go: on a 6,000 nautical mile trip carrying eight passengers, such as New York to Beijing, it will use 10,000 gallons of fuel and reach the destination in 50 minutes. On a shorter trip of 1,000 nautical miles with eight passengers, such as from Denver to Detroit, 1,600 gallons of fuel would be used and the flight time would be 30 minutes.

The flight controls themselves are designed to be extremely easy to use, so that even pilots from third world countries with little flight training could use them. Even though any pilot qualified by FAA standards to fly a Boeing Business Jet will have ample experience, the thought is nonetheless comforting. The plane lacks no piece of guidance or system awareness technology that could be added to a commercial or private jet.

Truly, the BBJ lacks nothing. For those that can afford it, it is the epitome of everything that could be desired in a private jet.

for more information on the Boeing Business Jet, contact Kevin O'Leary at koleary@jetadvisors.com or 303-410-1900.

Learjet 40

2008-01-22T19:33:00.001-07:00

For more information about the Learjet 40, contact Kevin O'Leary at 303-410-1900 or koleary@jetadvisors.com

Hawker Horizon

2008-01-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

The goal of the design team from Raytheon that made the Hawker Horizon was not to design the fastest private jet, or the jet with the longest range, or the most economical mid-sized private jet. Their goal was to strike a balance between all of the things aircraft owners value: cabin size, speed, operating cost, and range. This goal was met in the Hawker Horizon, a private jet that is strong on all fronts.

The Hawker Horizon’s cabin can carry between eight and fourteen. It is 29.5 feet long, 6 feet high, and 6.5 feet wide. There is 110 cubic feet of baggage space available in an unpressurized external compartment. All of the typical amenities are available as well: a fully enclosed lavatory, appliances for hot and cold food preparation, and power plugs.

The Hawker Horizon is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW308A engines, which provide 6,900 pounds of thrust each on takeoff. They are similar to the PW305 engines used on the Hawker 1000, but produce more thrust, are more economical, and have better temperature margins than the 305s.

The runway requirements for the Hawker Horizon are impressive for a private jet of its size. It can take off in 5,088 feet on a sea level runway, or in 7,598 feet on a runway at an elevation of 5,000 feet. It can climb directly to 41,000 feet in twenty minutes at its Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) of 36,000 pounds. When loaded to its maximum fuel capacity, it can fly 3,570 miles (3,100 nautical miles) at a speed of .80 Mach.

For an optimum range cruise, the Hawker Horizon can fly at 430 knots at its maximum flight level of 45,000 feet. Its high speed cruise is 470 knots at 41,000 feet. The aircraft’s pressurization system is rated to 9.8 psi, meaning that the Hawker Horizon can maintain a 6,000 foot cabin altitude while flying at 45,000 feet.

Raytheon selected the Honeywell Primus Epic Avionics Suite for use in the Hawker Horizon. It integrates and controls many of the vital functions of the aircraft. It comes standard with a GPS sensor, an FMZ-2000 FMS (Flight Management System), dual autothrottles, and dual automated flight control systems. Five 8 by 10 inch flat panel LCDs show all of the necessary flight information. Two serve as the primary flight displays, two as multi-function displays, and one as an EICAS (Engine Indication and Crew Alert System), which cycles through seven pages of systems information. The electronic system displays will allow the pilot to control all shown functions directly from the display.

Sino Swearingen SJ 30-2

2008-01-17T16:09:00.001-07:00

The Sino Swearingen SJ 30-2 is a little-known private jet from an almost unheard-of company. It is an anomaly among light jets: it has transcontinental range and a maximum cruise speed of .83 Mach. The SJ 30-2 is very fuel efficient at high speeds, burning just over 100 gallons of fuel per hour

The cabin extremely small, even for a light private jet. It is 12.6 feet long, 4.3 feet wide, and 4.7 feet high, which totals a cabin volume of 191 cubic feet. It fits five seats, and since the SJ 30-2 will generally be flown by a single pilot, an additional passenger can ride in the cockpit. Some cabin amenities include an Iridium satcom phone, power outlets, two-zone temperature control, and cup holders by each seat.

The SJ30-2 uses two Williams International FJ44-2a fanjet engines, the same class of engines used on the CitationJet series and the original SJ30. Each are flat rated to 2,300 pounds of thrust each. They are controlled partially by two Electronic Control Units (ECTs) that are comparable to an FADEC (Full Authority Digital Electronics Control), which automatically limits takeoff thrust, schedules climb and cruise thrust levels, and distributes fuel. Backup hydromechanical fuel control is available if the ECU fails.

One of the most surprising attributes of the SJ 30-2 is its range of 2,870 miles (2,500 nautical miles). Fortunately, its cruise speed is up to par with the uncharacteristically (for a light private jet) high range. Its maximum cruise speed is .83 Mach (486 knots), and its long range cruise speed is .78 Mach (447 knots). The SJ30-2 is very fuel efficient, burning 150 gallons of fuel per hour, 40 gallons less than the average fuel consumption for light private jets. This is surprising, considering the fact that no other light private jets come close to the SJ 30-2 in range or speed. The SJ30-2 can be even more fuel efficient when performing for optimum range, burning only 102 gallons per hour.

The fully integrated Honeywell Primus Epic CDS avionics system centers on two 8x10 flat panel liquid crystal displays. The cockpit comes equipped with the Primus 331 weather radar, the Dual Primus II radio system, and can be configured to include a lightning sensor system, TCAS 2000 (Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System), GPS, and other flight control systems. The SJ 30-2 can be operated by a single pilot.

Challenger 300

2007-12-21T11:11:00.000-07:00

The Challenger 300 falls into the “super-midsize” private jet class, along with jets like the Citation X and the Gulfstream G200. It can fly eight passengers coast-to-coast nonstop, and was designed to have low direct operating costs – making it a strong contender against other newly arrived super-midsized private jets.

The cabin of the Challenger 300 fits eight or nine passengers in a double-club configuration. Two-zone air conditioning keeps both the pilots and the passengers comfortable, and low-heat LED overhead lights (with a 10,000 hour life) give the cabin an open feel. The cabin itself stretches to a length (not including the cockpit) of 16.5 feet, a height of 6.1 feet, and a width of 7.2 feet. The 106 cubic feet of baggage (750 pounds) stored in an exterior compartment is accessible in-flight through the fully enclosed lavatory.

The real draw of the Challenger 300 is its range/payload capabilities. It can fly eight passengers 3,560 miles (3,100 nautical miles) at .80 Mach – quite a feat for a jet of its class. The Challenger 300’s top cruise speed is .82 Mach (470 ktas), but it usually flies at about .80 Mach (459 knots) and burns 1,577 pounds of fuel per hour.

The Challenger 300 uses the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics system, with four 12x10 inch LCD screens. The EICAS (Engine Indication and Crew Alerting System) comes standard, which gives engine performance information such as fuel flow, oil and turbine temperatures, torque, and visual deicing and environmental control information. Other systems include the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) and the Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS II). Functions such as engine startup are almost completely automated.

The Challenger 300 is a solid private jet that will consistently deliver high performance and economy of operation. It was designed to be simple to operate and easy to maintain, so it will not encounter difficulties in regularly completing cross-country flights.

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For more information about the Challenger 300, contact Kevin O'Leary at 303-410-1900 or koleary@jetadvisors.com

Premier 1

2007-12-19T10:34:00.001-07:00

One of the main design objectives for the Premier 1 was to create a private jet that was uncomplicated and easy to operate, resulting in a jet that can be operated by a single pilot. The fully integrated Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics system, designed specifically for the Premier 1, consolidates displays and functions to make the pilot’s job easier and to increase situational awareness. Two large-format 8x11 inch flat panel color LCD screens, one primary flight display and one multifunctional display, dominate the control panel. New LCD technology allows the pilots to see the screens clearly, regardless of the lighting in the cabin or the angle of viewing.

The fully integrated flight management system not only makes the pilot’s job easier, it ensures optimal system performance. The components of the avionics system – dual air data computers, ADF and DME radio, sold-state WXR-800 weather radar, and integral satellite-based GPS, to name a few – maximize situational awareness and make for a safe, uneventful private jet flight.

The Premier 1 is the first private business jet to use the electromagnetic expulsive deicing system (EMED) on the horizontal stabilizer. It produces electromagnetic waves across the surface of the metal which breaks the ice off. Deicing systems for the rest of the jet use engine bleed air.

The landing gear is controlled electronically and utilizes a hydraulically actuated gear and a free-fall landing gear for emergencies. An electronic anti-skid brake system is included, powered by two hydraulic engine pumps. These two engine-controlled pumps also control the landing gear, spoilers, and parts of the anti-ice system.

The swept wings on the Premier 1 are an original design from Raytheon. Their unique design minimizes drag and increases cruise speed and high altitude capabilities. Although the wing was enlarged to add an additional 250 pounds of fuel than was originally planned, the Premier 1 still manages a short enough takeoff distance to be able to utilize small airports.

The Premier 1 can take off in 3,792 feet and climb to 37,000 feet in seventeen minutes when loaded to its maximum takeoff capacity of 12,500 feet. Its cruise speeds can reach 461 ktas (.785 Mach). Its maximum range is 1,726 miles (1,500 nautical miles).

Embraer Legacy Shuttle (EMB-135LR)

2007-12-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

The EMB-135LR is designed to work best on shorter trips. It can carry more passengers than its predecessor, and is designed to be used as a corporate shuttle for anywhere between 16 and 37 passengers, not as a luxurious office at 39,000 feet.

With that in mind, the Legacy Shuttle does meet its design objectives very well. It is extremely practical, an ideal private jet for day-to-day business use. It is extremely reliable, and has plenty of backup systems for each key function, as should be expected from a private jet originally designed for day-in, day-out commercial use.

The cabin of the Legacy Shuttle is the second-largest of any heavy jet (the late-generation Gulfstreams come in first place), with a cabin volume of 1,410 cubic feet. The cabin measures 6 feet high, 6.9 feet wide, and 42.4 feet long. The internal and external baggage compartments, totaling 142 cubic feet, can hold 1,415 pounds of baggage and are both accessible in-flight. The external baggage compartment is pressurized, air-conditioned, and has class C fire protection.

The exact interior configurations will vary greatly according to how many passengers the jet holds (16-37 passengers), but typical amenities include a galley with an oven, coffee maker and cold food storage. Airshow 400, single-channel satcom, and multiple AC power outlets are included in the standard interior configuration. The in-flight entertainment system consists of a 20-inch flat-panel screen mounted at the front of the cabin with DVD, VCR, and CD players with headphone jacks at each seat. Alternately, individual passenger screens may be installed, along with multi-channel satcom, various pieces of office equipment, a microwave, and so on.

The Legacy Shuttle is powered by two Rolls-Royce AE3007 A1/3 turbofan engines. Each engine is flat-rated to 7,057 pounds of thrust. Inspection is on-condition. FADEC makes engine startup almost entirely automatic and regulates their performance in-flight for optimal fuel burn and speed. They burn, on average, 313 gallons of fuel per hour.

Runway performance is not the Legacy Shuttle’s strong point, but it makes up for it with its ability to operate with heavy payloads and still fly a decent distance. On a sea level runway, the Legacy Shuttle requires 5,600 feet to take off. For a runway at 5,000 feet and a temperature of 77˚F, the requirement increases to 7,024 feet. Although the high-altitude takeoff length is longer than the average heavy private jet requirement, the Legacy Shuttle can fly 2,049 nautical miles (Seattle to Boston, for example) after such a takeoff. It would fly this distance by first climbing directly to its long-range cruise altitude of 37,000 feet in 22 minutes, then cruising at 387 ktas (.68 Mach). A high speed cruise of 446 ktas (.77 Mach) can also be achieved at 37,000 feet and will consume about 10% more fuel than consumption at the long-range speed. The Legacy Shuttle’s average speed, including climb and descent, is 371 ktas.

G1000: New Avionics Suite for Private Jets

2007-12-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

Garmin’s G1000 avionics suite is one of the newest options on the market for private jets. The G1000 is an integrated avionics suite that fulfills the role of most standard-issue flight deck instruments, including radio navigation, communications, and GPS. It has received good reviews from pilots and aircraft manufacturers alike and has been selected for standard installation on private jets such as the Citation Mustang, the Phenom 100 and 300, and the HondaJet.

The configuration of the G1000 varies by aircraft manufacturer, and can include two 10- or 12- 15-inch LCDs. Private jet pilots can access a variety of screens through the Multi Function Display (MFD), including satellite weather, traffic awareness information, and checklists. In its standard mode, the MFD displays engine instrument information and a moving map. The two display screens are connected by a high-speed Ethernet data bus and each can display either the PFD or MFD, according to the pilot’s preference.

The two (or, in the case of Citation Mustang, three) LCDs offer private jet pilots a unique level of situational awareness. The G1000 has built-in database of terrain, navigation, and airport information. Jeppesen offers subscription services which provide updated aviation database information monthly, and updated terrain/obstacle information bi-monthly. The built-in database can be updated easily through inserting SD memory cards into slots in the PFD or MFD.

Garmin’s G1000 avionics suite optimizes flight performance through its advanced GFC 700 autopilot, which can handle most tasks throughout flight. It can maintain a steady airspeed and automatically optimizes the private jet’s performance during the climb and descent phases of flight. Perhaps most important of all, the GFC 700 has an emergency descent mode which is automatically activated in emergency situations .

In summary, the G1000 provides the high-caliber performance expected in private jet aviation while exceeding all expectations in its situational awareness capabilities. Pilots flying with the G1000 have almost every advantage technology can offer. Superior quality meets superior efficiency in Garmin’s G1000 avionics suite.

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For more information about the Garmin's G1000 avionics suite, contact Kevin O'Leary at koleary@jetadvisors.com or 303-410-1900.

Fractional Options: Citation Shares

2007-12-06T09:16:00.000-07:00

In the steadily expanding world of fractional private jet ownership, Cessna has established itself as a fractional company whose service and capabilities are as reliable as their aircraft. Needless to say, Citation Shares only operates Cessna business aircraft, most notable the CJ3, XLS, and Sovereign. A variety of pricing plans are available, as well as several premium-day options.

For a more detailed look at their services, check their website: www.citationshares.com

Private Jets Guide: Phenom 100

2007-12-04T14:21:00.001-07:00

The Phenom 100 is a fairly new addition to the light private jet market. Below are some quick stats to give you an idea of its capabilities (all numbers have been taken from Embraer's published performance data).

VFR Range (with NBAA IFR reserves: 1,160 nm
High speed cruise: 380 ktas
Runway length at sea level: 3,400 ft
Cabin height: 4 ft 11 in
Cabin width: 5 ft 1 in

Under optimal conditions, the Phenom 100 could complete a flight from New York to Miami or from Las Vegas to Minneapolis. The Phenom 100's cabin can fit four passengers and has space for 50 cubic feet of baggage.

For more information on the Phenom 100, consult the websites of Embraer or Jet Advisors.

Private Jets Guide: Lear 45XR Retrofit

2007-11-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

In the early months of 2004, Bombardier began offering Learjet 45 owners the option of upgrading their aircraft to the Learjet 45 XR model. The retrofit is offered as a series of service bulletins that upgrade an in-service Learjet 45 to the Learjet 45 XR variant. Dozens of private jets have been upgraded since the retrofit option became available - but what does the XR retrofit really add to the aircraft?

The most readily apparent change between the Learjet 45 and Learjet 45 XR is the enhancement to the engines. Newer TFE731-20BR engines replace the older TFE731-20 engines used on the Learjet 45 private jets. The change in engine doesn’t impact maximum thrust or engine inspection intervals. The benefits of the upgrade are actually driven by a change in the engine flat-rating which allows the engine to produce more thrust under demanding conditions where thrust was limited on the older engines. Therefore, although the upgrade increases climb and speed capability on a standard day, the benefits are most apparent when considering operations under challenging conditions.

For example, the XR retrofit dramatically improves hot and high runway performance. At sea level and on a standard day the Learjet 45 and Learjet 45 XR require approximately the same runway length (when taking off at the same weight). When the runway is elevated to 5,000 feet and the outside air temperature increases to 25 deg C. (77 deg F.), at a takeoff weight of 20,500 lb the Learjet 45 uses 7,275 ft of runway. The Learjet 45 XR needs only 5,565 ft to take off under the same conditions. Operating out of a very short runway, where operators of private jets are often forced to off-load fuel in order to lower aircraft weight and shorten take-off distances, the improved field performance of the XR can translate into a considerable range advantage. For example, out of Aspen on a 68 deg F day, the Learjet 45 XR can fly 1,000 nm further than the Learjet 45 with 6 passengers.

In addition to runway performance, the XR upgrade impacts speed and climb characteristics. In fact, under standard ISA conditions at a typical mid cruise weight of 18,000 lb, the Learjet 45 XR can cruise up to 8% faster than the Learjet 45 at FL470, and 4% faster at FL450. But again, the benefit of the upgrade is most noticeable under the elevated temperatures seen in the U.S. and Europe during summer months, and year-round in many areas such as Africa and the Middle East. For example, the Learjet 45 XR can cruise up to 19% faster than the Learjet 45 under ISA+15 deg conditions, and can climb to cruise altitude much faster than the Learjet 45.
Finally, the XR retrofit kit is sold with an increase to MTOW. The 1,000 lb weight increase significantly increases useful load under all operating conditions and is so popular it is often bought as a stand-alone service bulletin. For example, with full fuel, the Learjet 45 XR can carry 1,575 lb of payload and the L45 can carry 575 lb of payload. In layman’s terms, the Learjet 45 XR can carry an additional 1,000 lb of either people or baggage when the tanks are full.

The Learjet 45 XR retrofit offers the enhanced performance of the Learet 45XR to current owners of Lear 45 private jets. The speed and climb improvements under typical conditions are substantial, but the retrofit will offer the most value to owners that frequently operate in hot and or high environments, or out of short airfields. For those who plan on keeping their Lear 45 private jets for a while longer, the $575,000 XR retrofit may be well justified.

Mini Jets

2007-11-27T13:35:00.000-07:00

Everyone is susceptible to excessive hype now and then, and the general aviation industry is no exception. Much excitement has surrounded the onset of the VLJs (Very Light Jets), small airplanes with jet engines that aim to revolutionize air travel. In anticipation of their arrival, air taxi services have sprung up, which hope to utilize the low-cost flight times of the miniature private jets to complete short commutes on-demand.

Who are the contenders in the VLJ race? Take a look:

Citation Mustang - Cessna Eclipse 500 - Eclipse Aviation Adam 700 - Adam Aircraft Industries
Diamond D-Jet - Diamond Aircraft
ATG Javelin - ATG and IAI
HondaJet - Honda Aircraft Company
Embraer Phenom 100 - Embraer
PiperJet - Piper Aircraft

Also see these related articles:
Mini Jets: Why All the Hype?
Beating the Airlines: the Everyman's Private Jet

Questions? Contact Kevin O'Leary at 303-410-1900 or koleary@jetadvisors.com

Services We Offer

2007-11-20T09:44:00.000-07:00

Jet Advisors offers many services, some of which you may not be aware of:

Private Jet Acquisitions: we assist in determining which private jet best meets your needs, then finding it and completing the transaction.

Jet Sales: we will market and sell your private jet at the best possible price.

Fractional Jet Consulting: we provide information on all the fractional options available, including charter cards, fractional ownership, and on-demand charter and help determine which option, and which service, best suits your needs.

Private Jet Charter: on-demand charter as well as long-term charter service providers.

Aviation Consulting: financial analysis, including operating, fixed, and variable cost projections. Compare between different aircraft and options.

Insurance: hull, engine, and liability insurance.

Aircraft Appraisals: independent cost analysis for buyers or sellers.

Audits: we review your invoices and compare them to our database of similiar trips to find accounting errors and inconsistent charges. We also conduct safety audits and can provide operational safety reports on request.

CJ2+

2007-11-08T13:47:00.001-07:00

Some quick facts about Cessna’s CJ2+:

· Uses FJ44-2A-24 engines
· Takes off in 3,360 feet at sea level
· Climbs to 37,000 feet in 15 minutes
· Can fly 1,178 nautical miles when carrying 4 passengers and reserves
· Uses Pro Line 21 avionics suite
· Seats 8 passengers in its 246 cubic foot cabin
· Sells for $6.068 million

CJ2+ Specifications and Analysis

International Travel

2007-11-06T13:22:00.000-07:00

International travel for fractional jet owners raises some extra concerns, especially when it comes to customs delays. Should these delays be charged at the usual hourly rate, as an additional short leg, or not at all?

An article in our Buyer's Guide discusses the issue in further detail:

Customs Information for Fractional Jet Owners

Fly By Wire Avionics In the on 7X

2007-11-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

The fly by wire technology itself – replacing heavy mechanical linkage and hydraulic systems with electrically actuated flight control systems – is far from new. Dassault has produced several military aircraft with full FBW technology, but the 7X is the first business aircraft to be completely reliant on it.

The fly-by-wire system drastically reduces aircraft weight, improves aircraft performance, autopilot handling, and overall reliability. For obvious reasons, redundancy is a vital part of the FBW technology, which is why the 7X has six FBW computers: three primary dual-channel computers and three single-channel secondary computers. Only two secondary computers are needed to keep the 7X in the air.

Lear 45XR Retrofit

2007-10-25T14:46:00.000-06:00

Beginning in the early months of 2004, Bombardier offered owners of the Learjet 45 the option of upgrading their aircraft to the Learjet 45XR. All Learjet 45s manufactured after the retrofit became available are automatically equipped as a Learjet 45XR. For those aircraft already in service before the retrofit became standard, a series of service bulletins could be completed to classify it as a Learjet 45XR. Dozens of private jet owners have opted to retrofit their aircraft since the option became available – but what does the XR retrofit really add to the aircraft?

New engines: TFE731-20BR
Better runway performance
Climb to 37,000 feet in 15 minutes
Slightly faster cruise speeds and shorter trip times

Retrofitting a Lear 45 to become the Lear 45XR costs about $575,000.

Cessna CJ3

2007-10-23T13:31:00.000-06:00

Flies 1,761 nautical miles with four passengers and NBAA IFR reserves
Climbs to 37,000 feet in 15 minutes
Seats 7-9 passengers
Uses two Williams International FJ44-3A engines
High speed cruise of 415 ktas
Price tag: $7 million

For more information on the CJ3, or on other private jets, visit:

Cessna Citation CJ3
CJ3 Analysis

Short Leg Charges

2007-10-18T09:45:00.000-06:00

Fractional owners of private jets, particularly owners that frequently take trips less than an hour long, should know the details of short leg contracts. Short legs are flights which total less than an hour (this calculation may or may not include taxi time -- an important detail). Any flights that take less than an hour are automatically charged as at the minimum flight time rate. Contracts differ by company, but generally each company allots a certain number of short leg waivers per year. These waivers exempt you from being charged for the full hour. The number of waivers provided in the standard contract varies by company, so be sure to ask before signing the contract.

Visit our website for more information about Short Leg Waivers.

Challenger 605 Replaces Challenger 604

2007-10-16T13:18:00.000-06:00

The Challenger 605 debuted early this year as the newer, better Challenger 604. Bombardier made relatively few changes to the already-successful Challenger 604. The cabin has been completely redesigned, with slightly more headroom, better lighting and design, and more entertainment systems. The cockpit is the other area of change: the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 found in the Challenger 604 was replaced by the Pro Line 21 avionics suite.

Other major systems remained constant, so the Challenger 605’s performance does not deviate from the Challenger 604’s. The Challenger 605 sells for about $27.38 million, at least $3 million below the sale price of its closest competing long-range private jet.

GULFSTREAM G150 OR HAKWER 850XP?

2007-10-11T09:38:00.000-06:00

Both the Gulfstream G150 and the Hawker 850XP are high-performing, reliable business jets. But in a head-to-head competition, which jet comes out ahead?

The biggest difference is cabin size: the Hawker 850XP's cabin is longer by 3 ft, 8 in, and has the larger volume by 139 cubic feet. The G150 wins in terms of baggage volume: it holds 80 cubic feet of baggage, which the 850XP holds only 50 cubic feet.

Both jets use the Honeywell TFE731 engines, but each use a different model. The TFE731-5BR model used on the G150 produces less thrust but has a longer inspection interval.

Furthermore, the G150 has a longer range by about 320 nautical miles, and a faster climb time by 2 minutes.

The Hawker 850XP wins in terms of max cruise speed and fuel burn, but when actual flight histories of the two jets are compares, the Gulfstream G150 takes significantly less time to complete missions.

The last area of comparison is cost. In 2006 figures, the Gulfstream G150 costs $13.50 million new, and the Hawker 850XP costs $13.79 million.

Want more details? Take a look at a related article on the Gulfstream G150 and the Hawker 850XP.

Fuel Surcharges: How Much Is Too Much?

2007-10-09T13:30:00.000-06:00

When it comes to fuel surcharges, it's hard to know if you are being charged the right amount for fuel. Calculating fuel costs from your monthly invoices can be tedious. Worse yet, errors in fuel surcharges are a very common phenomenon: we often catch errors when auditing our clients' invoices. These errors are often due to inaccurate fuel adjustment factors or unclear contract agreements. Be sure to ask about fuel surcharges before signing into a fractional contract. If you are still uncertain about the accuracy of your fuel charges, you can always use our Auditing Service. Visit our website for more information on Fuel Surcharge Errors.

Improved Takeoff Safety Measures Now Available To Private Jet Owners

2007-10-04T09:39:00.000-06:00

Vital safety and operational information is available to pilots for every minute that the aircraft is airborne. Pilots have access to data in-flight about wind speed and direction, weather patterns on their route, and mid-air traffic. GPS and other navigation systems guide the aircraft from the moment it reaches cruising altitude until its final descent. Until now, however, data for the most critical phases of flight, takeoff and landing, has been in short supply. At most, pilots have been able to see maps of their destination airports and have had little assistance in planning ascent and descent flight paths.

A new option is available to pilots that provides them with the same detailed, up-to-date data about takeoffs, approaches, and landings that they have been accustomed to having in mid air. Aircraft Performance Group, Inc. (APG) is a company that has provided flight planning, takeoff and landing analysis and airport data to the aviation industry for more than 25 years. Their service assists business aircraft in optimizing their takeoff and approach flight paths, resulting in greater flight safety and higher maximum allowable payloads . . .

To read the complete article about Aircraft Performance Group, see the July segment of the Private Jet Buyer’s Guide.

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION: FLIGHT MANAGERS

2007-10-03T14:48:00.000-06:00

There's a lot to take into account when choosing a company to manage your aircraft:

-size: personalized service vs. reliability, experience

-staff experience
-pilot training standards

-maintenance standards and procedures

-fuel and parts discounts (usually only offered at large companies, but it's worth inquiring about) -extra fees and charges (startup fees, positioning fees, training fees, etc). Monthly fees are the same across the board, so the charges are what make the difference.

Check out our website for more details on Choosing a Manager.

Fuel Flow Overview

2007-10-02T13:38:00.000-06:00

How much does fuel consumption vary? Below are some quick comparisons, based on the average fuel burn of the private jets in each specified category. "New" designates that the jet was in production at least 10 years ago, or that is currently in production. "Older" designates jets that have been out-of-production for 10 years or more.

New Light Jets......................... 194 gph
Older Light Jets........................219 gph
New Midsized Jets....................239 gph
Older Midsized Jets..................325 gph
New Large Jets.........................379 gph
Old Large Jets.......................... 444 gph
New Ultra-long-range Jets......616 gph

Newly Certified Business Jets: Gulfstream G150

2007-09-27T10:00:00.000-06:00

Gulfstream’s latest addition to the business jet market, the G150, was received its certification in November of 2005. The G150 is derivative of the G100, with changes to some of its structures, avionics, and cabin.

The most noticeable feature of the G150 is the cabin: Gulfstream went to great lengths to make it one of the widest cabins in its class, resulting in a 95 cubic-foot increase in cabin space from the G100. The interior has been entirely redone for more comfortable, luxurious flights. Passengers should also appreciate the G150’s flexible wings which translate into much smoother handling in turbulent regions.

The entire flight deck has been upgraded from the Pro Line 4 suite to the Pro Line 21 suite. Two Honeywell TFE 731-40AR-200G engines are used on the G150, the same models used on the G100. Major modifications were made to the nose, resulting in dramatically reduced drag. The range of the G150 benefits from the structural modifications: when loaded with four passengers and required NBAA IFR fuel reserves, the G150 can fly 3,018 nautical miles. Its cruise speeds make up for its slightly reduced range: its maximum speed is 475 ktas and its long-range cruise speed is 430 ktas.

Eclipse 500 Avionics and Pilot Traning Program

2007-09-20T09:52:00.000-06:00

The avionics suite and accompanying pilot training program used in the Eclipse 500 is not quite like anything ever seen in private jet aviation. Eclipse Aviation chose an avionics system called Avio for the cockpit of the Eclipse 500. Although it is common for avionics systems to manage multiple functions through an FMS or FADEC, Avio promises to deliver “total aircraft integration” on a scale not yet seen in private aviation. Avio promises to combine all tasks and functions -- engines, fuel system, landing gear, environmental and electrical systems, navigation, and communication -- into a single central management system. Avio could best be compared to a computer’s operating system: a single management interface which gives control over every system without overloading the user with unnecessary tasks.

The training program to receive an Eclipse 500 type rating differs from other jet training programs: aspiring Eclipse 500 pilots must hold instrument and multiengine ratings before attending a one-week training program through United Airline’s training services branch. Pilots who receive their type rating but who do not have previous experience flying jets will be required to fly with a mentor until reaching an acceptable level of experience. Recurrent training will be required every six months for pilots flying with mentors, and annually for more experienced pilots.

Links: Eclipse Aviation -- Avidyne Avionics -- Private Jet Buyer’s Guide

Citation X Cruise Speed: Helpful or Hyped?

2007-09-18T16:19:00.000-06:00

The marketing department at Cessna has gone to great lengths to publicize the fact that the Citation X is the fastest business jet on the market. But does its .92 max cruise speed really make a difference when time to climb, fuel burn, and operating limits are taken into account? Take a look at this article, first published in our August 2006 Private Jet Buyer's Guide.

Cost Analysis: Fractional Ownership vs. Charter

2007-09-13T09:14:00.000-06:00

One of the less-often considered aspects of fractional jet ownership vs. charter is the tax implications. Things to take into consideration are: -depreciation -inflation -resale value -type of use (business or leisure) -hours flown per year -manufacture date for a more detailed analysis, check our website for an article on Cost Implications of Charter and Fractional Ownership.

Range-to-Payload Improvements in Hawker 900XP

2007-09-11T13:05:00.000-06:00

Te Hawker 900XP’s main asset is its range, enough to fly nonstop between any two city pairs in the US. Comparisons between the Hawker 900XP and the Hawker 850XP consistently show the 900XP to be able to fly further than its predecessor. For example, on a mission with four passengers and required NBAA IFR reserves, the Hawker 900XP can fly up to 2,818 nautical miles, about 200 miles more than the Hawker 850XP would be capable of. The Hawker 900XP outstrips the Hawker 850XP in range by roughly same margin on a mission with both private jets loaded with their maximum payload and available fuel.

Hawker Horizon

2007-09-06T09:42:00.000-06:00

Also known as Hawker 4000
Entered service in 2005
762 cubic foot cabin
Seats 8-14
Uses Pratt and Whitney PW308A engines
Takes off in 5,200 feet at sea level
Price tag: $19.95 million

Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Avionics Suite

2007-09-04T14:05:00.000-06:00

Rockwell Collins calls its Pro Line 21 avionics suite an "investment in performance." Statements like this run commonly run amok in marketing brochures, but this time, we agree with their statement, as does Cessna, Raytheon, Bombardier, Gulfstream, and Dassault. The Pro Line 21 system is currently used in the CJ1, CJ2, CJ3, the Premier 1, the Challenger 601, Gulfstream 150, and the Gulfstream 250. Dassault is currently retrofitting it to the Falcon 20, Falcon 50, and Falcon 60. Although these jets range from light to ultra long-range, they do share the common trait of having enjoyed unusual success in the private jet sales market. Thus, we have already answered the question of whether or not the Pro Line 21 system is good, which leaves us with the question: why?

The Pro Line 21 system was designed to be intuitive, so the pilots could quickly understand and act on the ever-changing mountain of data they are presented with. All flight data, including navigation, engine performance, and sensor readings are displayed on large, flat-panel LCDs. The Primary Flight Displays (PFDs) complement the Multi-Functional Display (MFD). Real-time weather and terrain data ahead of the planned flight route can be accessed via the Broadcast Graphical Weather system. The Collins FMS-3000 is an integral part of the system, which provides cutting-edge flight planning, flight management, and multisensor navigation capabilities. A flight plan uplink feature simplifies the modification of planned routes. Electronic charts are a particularly useful feature: pilots can access airport approach plates, electronic checklists, and digital airport maps which display the real-time position of the jet. Another noteworthy feature of the Pro Line 21 suite is the heads-up navigation display. It is designed to increase safety and precision in approaches, particularly during poor weather.

One of the Pro Line 21's greatest strengths is its potential for future improvement. When Rockwell Collins first installed the Pro Line 21 system, they knew that it would soon be obsolete. Technology in the avionics sector evolves quickly, and state-of-the art cockpits fall behind the performance levels of new aircraft fairly quickly. Furthermore, new requirements are set by the FAA every year, and it is not uncommon for private jets to be grounded for several months when they don't update their cockpits in time. With all of that in mind, Rockwell Collins designed the Pro Line 21 system to have plenty of growing room. Its layout is quite flexible, and all systems were miniaturized to the maximum extent possible, the result being a very light, small avionics system that falls well under cockpit space and weight limits.

For that reason, the Pro Line 21 system has been able to easily transition to new technologies. Recent retrofit options for the standard Pro Line 21 cockpit include the FDS-2000 Flight Display System, solid-state AHRS, and TCAS II. The list of new technologies that can be added to a Pro Line 21 cockpit continues to grow, making it an excellent starting point for any private jet with high aspirations. The Pro Line 21 system originally made its mark in the private jet industry by providing flight information an intuitive, easy-to-operate format. The tradition of pilot-friendly avionics remains constant as the Pro Line 21 system evolves.

Hawker 750

2007-08-30T11:19:00.001-06:00

The Hawker 800 series has been rapidly adding new members since it was initially certified. The Hawker 800XP, a revision of the Hawker 800 with different engines and avionics, soon became the Hawker 850XP, a virtually identical model with winglets. After a successful track record of reliability, high performance, and consistent sales, the $13.775 million Hawker 850XP is being replaced by two close relatives, the entry-level Hawker 750 and the Hawker 900XP. The Hawker 750 will share the same engines, cabin, and major systems as the 850XP but will lose the winglets and a ventral fuel tank. These two alterations result in a significant weight reduction, which in turn impacts the Hawker 750’s performance enough to set it apart from its predecessor.

The cabin of the Hawker 750 is identical to the cabin of the Hawker 850XP: the design and dimensions are unchanged. The high-density 15 passenger layout available to buyers of the Hawker 850XP is no longer available; only the more commonly selected 8 passenger layout is offered. The Hawker 750’s cabin outdoes the Hawker 850XP’s cabin in baggage space since the Hawker 850XP’s ventral fuel tank was replaced by a baggage compartment in the Hawker 750. Between internal and external compartments, the Hawker 750 has a total of 79 cubic feet of baggage space; the Hawker 850XP has only 50 cubic feet available in an internal compartment.

The Hawker 750 uses the same TFE731-5BR engines as the 850XP, but performs significantly better on the runway due to its reduced weight. On a standard (59°F) day at sea level, the Hawker 750 can take off in 4,696 feet – 336 feet less than its counterpart would require. At an altitude of 5,000 feet and a temperature of 71°F, the 750’s runway requirements would increase to 7,094 feet – still 924 feet under the Hawker 850XP’s takeoff distance.

The tradeoff for the Hawker 750’s improved runway performance is its reduced fuel capacity: the 750’s fuel capacity is 8,500 pounds, and the 850XP’s capacity is 10,000 pounds. Although the Hawker 750’s range takes a hit, the loss in fuel is somewhat balanced out by its lighter load. The 750’s NBAA IFR range with four passengers is 2,163 nautical miles, 513 nautical miles under the Hawker 850XP’s range. The difference in range becomes more apparent when both jets are loaded with their maximum payload and required reserves: the Hawker 750 can fly 1,978 nautical miles, and the Hawker 900XP can fly 2,394 nautical miles.

So far some combination of the Hawker 750’s cruise speed, runway performance, range, and asking price has proven to be highly appealing to buyers, including NetJets, which placed an order for 30 Hawker 750s. Deliveries for the $11.95 million private jet are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2007.

Newly Certified Business Jets: Citation Mustang

2007-08-28T16:17:00.000-06:00

The Citation Mustang is an lightweight at 8,600 pounds. The Citation Mustang received its full type certification from the FAA in September of 2006, the first VLJ to do so. It lies on the higher end of the VLJ scale with a purchase price of $2.5 million, but also with higher performance standards than the rest of the VLJ market.

The Citation Mustang can fly four passengers 1,000 nautical miles in three hours and twenty minutes. Fuel consumption for such a trip would be 1,715 pounds, making the Mustang remarkably efficient to fly. Like all of the VLJs, it is certified for single-pilot operation. Required runway length at see level is just 3,110 feet. It can carry a maximum of five passengers in its 9.8 foot long cabin and reach cruise speeds of up to 339 ktas.

The Mustang’s PW615F engines were specifically designed for VLJs and deliver the high levels of performance that Pratt & Whitney are known for. Similarly, the Garmin 1000 avionics system was designed especially for VLJs. The Garmin 1000 system delivers everything the flight deck of a larger business jet would have. To date, 250 orders have been placed for the Citation Mustang, making it one of the most successful business jets ever to hit the market. The next available delivery date is in late 2009.

Stay Connected In-Flight

2007-08-23T09:31:00.000-06:00

If you are the type of person that must stay connected at all times, in all places, AirCell's communication system is for you. AirCell Axxess is a cabin communication system that will work at 55,000 feet while cruising at high speeds. In addition to high-quality phone calls, AirCell can provide broadband internet access and facilitate a fax machine.

follow the links below for more information:

AirCell Broadband

AirCell Axxess II Communication Systems

Do the New Engines of the Hawker 900XP Make a Difference?

2007-08-21T10:48:00.002-06:00

The short answer is: yes. The Hawker 900XP’s advantage over its predecessor, the Hawker 850XP can be attributed to its TFE731-50R engines, flat-rated to 4,660 pounds of thrust apiece. Although they produce the same amount of thrust as the TFE731-5BR models used on the Hawker 850XP, they burn less fuel and require maintenance much less often. The inspection interval for the Hawker 900XP’s engines is 6,000 cycles, a marked improvement over the 4,200 cycle inspection interval of the engines on the Hawker 850XP.

See also:
Jet Advisors – Hawker 900XP
Hawker Beechcraft

Eclipse 500 Maintenance Program

2007-08-16T17:01:00.001-06:00

One of the inevitable and unpleasant aspects of owning a private aircraft which falls into the “jet” category is the required maintenance. Routine inspections can be costly and time-consuming, grounding aircraft for days or even weeks at a time. Eclipse Aviation worked particularly hard to resolve this issue and designed several maintenance programs to fit differing owner needs. One option, the high-utilization program, requires only one single 8-hour shift to complete all required maintenance for every 75 hours of flight time.

Audits and Error Control

2007-08-15T11:30:00.000-06:00

Jet Advisors has been in the information business for years, so by now we pick up on small accounting errors and flight time discrepancies. In fact, we have formulated an entire auditing process which we use to check our client's invoices. We find errors in flight times, fuel charges, parts costs, and other maintenance charges. Visit our website for more details on our auditing service.

Not sure if auditing is right for you? Check out this article on some common errors we find in our clients' invoices: Flight Time Discrepancies

Newly Certified Business Jets: Falcon 7X

2007-08-14T13:12:00.000-06:00

The Dassault Falcon 7X received its full certification from both the FAA and the EASA in May 2007. This jet has been the cause of much excitement across the industry due to its complete fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control systems. Although FBW has been to a small extent in some business jet, never before has a business jet completely taken advantage of the new technology, which will increase overall flight performance, reduce weight, and improve reliability.

In addition to its landmark use of FBW technology, the Falcon 7X is the first jet to use an all-virtual design and manufacturing process. The use of the virtual design cut development time by almost fifty percent and reduced errors in the design and manufacturing processes.

The Falcon 7X is designed to compete with long-range business jets such as the Gulfstream 550 and the Global Express. It has a maximum range of 6,070 nautical miles while carrying eight passengers. It burns significantly less fuel than its competitors, cruises at slightly higher speeds, and features three high-performing PW307A engines. More than 160 confirmed orders have been placed for the $40.6 million business jet.

Gulfstream 550

2007-08-09T16:18:00.001-06:00

The Gulfstream 550 was the first private jet in the ultra-long-range category. It can fly 7,760 miles (6,750 nautical miles). It carries 14-19 passengers and can be configured with a variety of cabin amenities. The Gulfstream 550 is powered by two Rolls-Royce Deutschland BR700-710C4-11 engines and can take off in 5,910 from a sea level runway on a standard-condition day. The cockpit is based on Honeywell's Primus Epic Suite, which includes EVS and HUD, which make it possible to complete instrument landings.

Specifications:

CABIN
Length: 50 ft 1 in
Width: 7 ft 3 in
Height: 6 ft 2 in

Cabin Volume: 1669 cubic feet
Baggage Volume: 226 cubic feet
Passengers: 14-19

PERFORMANCE
High speed cruise: 488 ktas
Long range cruise: 459 ktas
Sea level runway takeoff: 5,910 feet
5,000 foot runway takeoff: 9,070 feet

ENGINES: 2 Rolls-Royce Deutschland BR700-710C4-11
output: 15,385 lbs.
each inspection: on condition

6,000 nm trip with four passengers:
runway: 5,277 feet
flight time: 13 hours, 15 minutes
fuel consumed: 33,428 lbs.
(an example of a 6,000 nm mission would be Washington, DC to Beijing)

Gulfstream 550: description, history, and specs

Pre-Purchase Inspections

2007-08-07T14:24:00.000-06:00

Anyone who has purchased a car is familiar with the pre-purchase inspection. For some, this may entail kicking the tires and glancing under the hood (for what, anyone knows). For the more fastidious buyers, pre-purchase inspections include test drives in differing conditions, a trip to a trusted mechanic, and research of the car's history.

Pre-purchase inspections for private jets are even more vital than inspections for cars (for obvious reasons), and are a lot more complicated.

Damage to the aircraft may be hard to locate. It often takes a very thou rough mechanic to find damage hidden beneath fresh paint or rarely-accessed panels.

Even damage that is admitted up front at the time of sale can be complicated: damage history of any kind significantly decreases the resale value of a private jet, makes it harder to sell, and usually reduces performance (even when full repairs have been made by the manufacturer).

Check out our Private Jet Buyer's Guide for more information on the Pre-Purchase Inspection process.

When to Switch from Fractional to Ownership

2007-08-07T14:19:00.000-06:00

Many fractional jet owners or charter card members find it more convenient and cost-effective to switch to ownership as their needs change and their demands increase. When, exactly, should this switch be made? There are several factors to be taken into account:

-the number of hours flown per year
-destinations
-duration of stay
-type of travel
-departure points
-simultaneous jet use

For a more detailed analysis, take a look at an article recently published on when to switch from fractional or charter use to private jet ownership.

Fractional Options: Avantair

2007-08-01T09:42:00.000-06:00

Of the many fractional companies available, only one uses the Piaggio P180 in its fleet: Avantair. To be more specific, Avantair only uses Piaggio P180s. If the name Piaggio doesn't seem familiar, a quick look at the jet will suffice to job your memory: the P180 has three lifting surfaces to distribute lift. The unique design of the P180 results in reduced drag and greater stability in flight.

Some say that the Piaggio P180 resembles a spacecraft, but a more apt description would be a finely crafted piece of Italian sculpture: everything from the hand-detailed leather seats to the sleek runway profile are reminiscent of Italian design. In more practical terms, however, the P180 competes well with the competition, delivering greater fuel efficiency, additional cabin space, and a shorter required runway length. The P180 lags a bit in terms of speed, but makes up for it in overall cabin comfort and low operating costs.

For a more detailed analysis of the Avantair's services, or for more information on the Piaggio P180, visit these links:

Piaggio P180
Jet Advisors: Fractional Ownership
Avantair.com

Challenger 300; Gulfstream 200

2007-07-31T08:49:00.000-06:00

Challenger 300 Gulfstream 200

CHALLENGER 300

Pax: 8
Cabin Volume: 860 cu ft
Baggage: 106 cu ft
Range: 3,100 nm
Runway: 4,720 ft
Engines: Honeywell HTF 7000
Price: $19.21 million

GULFSTREAM G200

Pax: 8
Cabin Volume: 868 cu ft
Baggage: 150 cu ft
Range: 2,900 nm
Runway: 6,340 ft
Engines: P&WC PW306A
Price: $21.65 million

Or, for a more wordy analysis, take a look at this article comparing the Challenger 300 and the Gulfstream 200

Private Jet Financing

2007-07-19T12:26:00.000-06:00

Financing a private jet purchase can be a fairly complicated process. There are many lenders to choose from. They are all interested in your business, but may not be interested in the type of aircraft you want to purchase...

Read the rest of this article on private jet financing for more details, as well as answers to questions such as:

-who will finance me?
-should I go through a broker or go directly to a lender?
-what are the contract terms?
-what loans are available?
-how long are the loan terms?
-what penalties should I be aware of?

Meet Our Staff: Kevin O'Leary

2007-07-17T13:13:00.001-06:00

some quick facts about the President and Founder of Jet Advisors:

-name: Kevin O'Leary
-areas of expertise: private jet sales, aviation consulting, fractional jet ownership, private jet charter
-notable former positions: Private Jet Trade Analyst, Raytheon Aircraft
Sales Manager, Travel Air Team
Private Jet Salesman, Flight Options
-other: holds MBA from Bentley College, commercial pilot's license with multiengine and insturment ratings. Can't stand dogeared pages, avid B&CA collector. Served 11 years as an Army Officer.

Check our staff page for a more detailed biography of Kevin O'Leary.

Gulfstream G150

2007-07-10T09:31:00.000-06:00

One of Gulfstream Aerospace’s newest business aircraft, the G150, was certified in November of 2005. Since its certification, fourteen jets have been delivered and have received positive reviews from customers across the globe. The G150 has just enough range to fly transcontinental missions, competitive fuel consumption, fast cruise speeds, and one of the widest cabins in its class. It is designed to compete with business aircraft such as the Learjet 60XR, Citation Sovereign and the Hawker 900XP.

The G150 is similar to the G100 in most of its structures, major systems, and engines. The main point of divergence is the G150’s cabin, which has been completely redesigned. The cabin measures 17.7 feet long, 5.8 feet high, and 5.8 feet wide and can be configured for six to eight passengers. The cabin is significantly wider than that of its predecessor, and wider than the cabins of most of its competitors . . . .

read the complete G150 article on Jet Advisors' Private Jet Buyers' Guide

for more information on the Gulfstream G150, visit these sites:

Gulfstream Aerospace

Rockwell Collins

General Dynamics

Winglets

2007-07-05T12:15:00.000-06:00

Owners, or potential owners, of the Hawker 800A’s and 800XP’s currently have the option of adding blended winglets to their private jet. This upgrade has been available since late 2004, during which more than 65 Hawkers have been modified. Many ultra-long-range and commercial jets now come standard with winglets -- but what exactly are the benefits of adding blended winglets to a private jet?

The main function of blended winglets is to reduce drag. Admittedly, drag reduction is probably not foremost on the minds of private jet owners, but it is an extremely important point. Reducing drag increases speed and decreases fuel consumption, thereby extending range and saving money.

Although the winglets cut operating costs, some owners shy away from the modification because of the initial expense of adding the winglets: the process takes three weeks and costs $438,000. The winglets improve the performance of the private jet and cut down on operating costs, which saves money – but how much money would really be saved by adding the winglets?

To begin with, Hawker 800’s with blended winglets burn on average 7% less fuel than their straight-wing counterparts. The Hawker 800 without winglets burns about 250 gallons per hour. With winglets, the Hawker 800 would consume only 232.5 gallons per hour, saving 17.5 gallons for each hour of flight time. Fuel currently costs $3.80 per gallon, which works out to a savings of $66.50 saved for every hour in the air. At this rate, it would take 6,628 hours of flight time to match the cost of adding the winglets.

....to read the complete article, see our January Private Jet Buyer's Guide at: http://www.jetadvisors.com/articles/2007-1-winglets.htm

Newly Certified Business Jets

2007-07-03T12:41:00.000-06:00

The world of business aviation has seen a lot of newcomers in past months. Three business aircraft recently received their certifications, two of which (the Falcon 7X and the Citation Mustang) are using groundbreaking technology never before seen in the business jet sector. Each business jet has its own strengths and weaknesses, and each faces a different set of competing jets on the market.

The newest jet of the group is the Dassault Falcon 7X, which received its full certification from both the FAA and the EASA in May 2007. This jet has been the cause of much hype across the industry due to its complete fly-by-wire (FBW) flight control systems. Although FBW has been used to a small extent in some business jets, never before has a business jet completely taken advantage of the new technology. The FBW system will increase overall flight performance, reduce weight, and improve reliability.

In addition to its landmark use of FBW technology, the Falcon 7X is the first jet to use an all-virtual design and manufacturing process. The use of the virtual design cut development time by almost fifty percent and reduced errors throughout the entire process.

The Falcon 7X is designed to compete with long-range business jets such as the Gulfstream 550 and the Global Express. It has a maximum range of 6,070 nautical miles while carrying four passengers. It burns significantly less fuel than its competitors, cruises at slightly higher speeds, and features three high-performing PW307A engines. More than 160 confirmed orders have been placed for this $40.6 million business jet.

On the other end of the business jet spectrum lies the Citation Mustang, the 8,600 pound VLJ. The Citation Mustang received its full type certification from the FAA in September of 2006, the first VLJ to do so. It lies on the higher end of the VLJ scale with a purchase price of $2.5 million, but also with higher performance standards than the rest of the VLJ market.

The Citation Mustang can fly four passengers 1,000 nautical miles in three hours and twenty minutes. Fuel consumption for such a trip would be 1,715 pounds, making the Mustang remarkably efficient to fly. Like all of the VLJs, it is certified for single-pilot operation. Required runway length at sea level is just 3,110 feet. It can carry a maximum of five passengers in its 9.8 foot long cabin and reach cruise speeds of up to 339 ktas.

The Mustang’s PW615F engines were specifically designed for VLJs and deliver the high levels of performance that Pratt & Whitney are known for. Similarly, the Garmin 1000 avionics system was designed especially for VLJs, but still delivers everything the flight deck of a larger business jet would have. To date, 250 orders have been placed for the Citation Mustang, making it one of the most successful business jets ever to hit the market. The next available delivery date is in late 2009.

Gulfstream’s latest addition to the business jet market, the G150, received its certification in November of 2005. The G150 is a derivative of the G100, with changes to some of its structures, avionics, and cabin.

The most noticeable feature of the G150 is the cabin: Gulfstream went to great lengths to make it one of the widest cabins in its class, resulting in a 95 cubic-foot increase in overall cabin volume from the G100. The interior has been entirely redone, resulting in more comfortable, luxurious flights. Passengers should also appreciate the G150’s flexible wings, which result in much smoother handling in turbulent regions.

The entire flight deck has been upgraded from the Pro Line 4 suite to the Pro Line 21 suite. Two Honeywell TFE 731-40AR-200G engines are used on the G150, the same models used on the G100. Major modifications were made to the nose, resulting in dramatically reduced drag. The range of the G150 benefits from the structural modifications: when loaded with four passengers and required NBAA IFR fuel reserves, the G150 can fly 3,018 nautical miles, slightly under the G100’s range capabilities. Its cruise speeds make up for its reduced range: its maximum speed is 475 ktas and its long-range cruise speed is 430 ktas.

The first G150s were delivered in late 2006. Their current sale price is $13.95 million.

New Super-Mid In Development at Dassault

2007-06-21T15:17:00.000-06:00

Dassault Falcon announced on June 15 that they have selected Rolls-Royce to provide the power plants for their next Falcon, a super-midsized jet. Company executives announced at the press conference that other major technological decisions for the new jet would be finalized within the next year.

The super-midsized aircraft market has enjoyed much success in the past two years: both the G150 and the Hawker 750 have received dozens of orders since their release.

Gulfstream 200 Galaxy or Challenger 300

2007-05-08T08:38:00.000-06:00

Challenger 300 Gulfstream 200

There's more the the Gulfstream G200 (Galaxy) and the Challenger 300 than meets the eye. They were designed to compete directly with one another in the newy-emerging super-midsized jet category. Which jet one? Take a look at some quick facts:

CHALLENGER 300 GULFSTREAM G200
Pax: 8 Pax: 8
Cabin Volume: 860 cu ft Cabin Volume: 868 cu ft
Baggage: 106 cu ft Baggage: 150 cu ft
Range: 3,100 nm Range: 2,900 nm
Runway: 4,720 ft Runway: 6,340 ft
Engines: Honeywell HTF 7000 Engines: P&WC PW306A
Price: $19.21 million Price: $21.65 million

Or, for a more wordy analysis, take a look at this article comparing the Challenger 300 and the Gulfstream 200

April's Private Jet Buyer's Guide

2007-04-19T15:01:00.000-06:00

Our April issue of the Private Jet Buyer's Guide is available now! Follow the link to see our articles on Duty Time Limitations, Collins Pro Line 21, and private jets that we need to find and sell! While you're there, be sure to also check out the past Buyer's Guides in case you missed something!

Enjoy!

Buyer's Guide COMING SOON!!!

2007-04-13T13:18:00.000-06:00

Our Buyer's Guide is coming next week! This month we will feature articles on The Collins ProLine, GIV, and Duty Time Restrictions. As always, we will post it here but we can also send it directly to you. Visit our Jet Advisors Website to sign up for our mailing list!

Also, and most importantly, we will be listing and requesting aircraft this time around. If you have any available or would like to purchase, please contact us immediately!

Short Leg Charges

2007-04-12T17:30:00.001-06:00

Fractional owners of private jets, particularly owners that frequently take trips less than an hour long, should know the details of short leg contracts.

Short legs are flights which total less than an hour (this calculation may or may not include taxi time -- an important detail). Any flights that take less than an hour are automatically charged as at the minimum flight time rate. Contracts differ by company, but generally each company allots a certain number of short leg waivers per year. These waivers exempt you from being charged for the full hour. The number of waivers provided in the standard contract varies by company, so be sure to ask before signing the contract.

Visit our website for more information about about Short Leg Waivers.

2007-04-11T16:16:00.001-06:00

Challenger 300 Gulfstream 200

Private Jet Financing

2007-04-10T15:35:00.000-06:00

Common questions about private jet financing:

-who will finance me?
-should I go through a broker or go directly to a lender?
-what are the contract terms?
-what loans are available?
-how long are the loan terms?
-what penalties should I be aware of?

For answers to the above questions, check out our recent article on Private Jet Financing.

FANJET SOLD

2007-04-03T13:35:00.000-06:00

Sorry to all those interested, the FanJet has sold. However, if there is an aircraft that you are looking for, contact us today! We have many resources that can help get you into the aircraft that fits your needs! Check out www.jetadvisors.com or contact Kevin O'Leary directly at koleary@jetadvisors.com.

Thanks for looking!

CJ1

2007-04-02T11:58:00.000-06:00

The Citation Jet 1 is the second in a series of a very successful series of private jets, which now has a total of seven members. It Citation Jets were designed to be economical, reliable, simple, and high-performing -- design goals which make sense to cost-conscious businessmen.

CABIN
Passengers: 6
Length: 11 ft 2 in
Width: 4ft 10 in
Height: 4 ft 9 in
Baggage volume: 57 cubic feet

ENGINES: two Rolls-Royce FJ44-1AP engines

PERFORMANCE
max cruise speed: 374 ktas
long range cruise speed: 324 ktas
takeoff distance (sea level, standard conditions): 3,310 feet
range with maximum pax: 672 nm

more information about the CJ1 can be found at:

Private Jet Buyer's Guide - CJ1

Jets International

Cessna

1972 Hawker 400 731/Fanjet For Sale

2007-04-02T11:48:00.000-06:00

This private jet is in great mechanical condition and has 10197 TT, 8269 landings. Its avionics systems have been recently upgraded, and it has been recently painted.

Engines: two Honeywell TFE 731 Engines installed by Garrett in 1980

Avionics: 4 Tube Collins EFIS 85B with APS 80 Collins Autopilot/FMS System. Dual navs, comms.

Interior: configured for seven, grey leather and light wood.

For more detailed information, check out the full private jet listing.

The Winglet Option

2007-03-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that an increasing number of commercial and private jets are adding winglets as a standard feature. Winglets are nothing new -- the first winglets appeared on the Learjet 28 in 1977 -- but they have only become ubiquitous on jets in the past few years. Many private jets on the market today offer the option of adding winglets at the time of building, or later as a retrofit option. Adding winglets can be fairly costly: retrofitting a Hawker 400XP takes three weeks and costs $438,000.

So, what do winglets really do? And are they worth it?

Winglets are designed to decrease the wingtip vortices that develop at the tip of a wing. These vortices develop as the high pressure air from beneath the wing meets the lower pressure air from above the wing. To get a better idea of what the interaction ofthe high- and low-pressure air looks like, take a look at the picture below, taken from a NASA study on wingtip vortices:

Winglets serve to reduce the severity of the induced drag created by these vortices, which has a myriad of side benefits. Reduced drag translates into faster cruise speeds, a lower fuel burn, and an increased range. The winglets also add stability in flight, which is particularly noticeable in small aircraft susceptible to turbulence.

The payoff for adding winglets to a jet is subtle, but an increasing number of private jet owners agree that the cost is more than justified by the benefits.

for more information on winglets and a detailed cost-benefit analysis of the retrofit, visit this site: http://www.jetadvisors.com/articles/2007-1-winglets.htm

for more information on the NASA research on winglets, visit this site: http://www.nasa.gov/centers/dryden/about/Organizations/Technology/Facts/TF-2004-15-DFRC.html

What's Available in Fractional Jet Ownership

2007-03-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

Buying a fractional card can have many advantages. There are many companies that offer jet cards, ranging from 25 to 400 hours. Costs vary greatly by aircraft type and the company you choose, as do contract terms, lengths, fees, maintenance programs, and so on. Choosing a fractional program is complicated process. If you are interested, contact us at privatejets@jetadvisors.com or take a look at the following sites for more information:

Fractional Jet Consulting - a quick overview
Citation Shares - Vector Card
FlexJet - 25 Jet Card
Flight Options
Marquis Jet - Marquis Jet Card
Jets International
Sentient - Jet Membership

Gulfstream 500 (GV-SP)

2007-03-30T12:10:00.000-07:00

The Gulfstream 500 (also referred to as the GV-SP) is a long-range private jet, capable of completeing international trips in a single bound. It is powered by two two BMW/Rolls-Royce BR700--710C4-11 engines and can reach a range of 5,941 nautical miles while carrying four passengers. The Gulfstream 500, known for its reliability and speed, is ideal for quickly completing cross-country or international trips quickly.

Specifications:

CABIN
Length: 50 ft 1 in
Width: 7 ft 3 in (max); 5 ft 5 in (floor)
Height: 6 ft 2 in
Baggage Volume: 226 cu. ft.
Passengers: 16-19

PERFORMANCE
High speed cruise: 488 ktas
Long range cruise: 459 ktas
Sea level runway takeoff: 5,150 feet
5,000 foot runway takeoff: 7,680 feet

ENGINES: tw0 BMW/Rolls-Royce BR700--710C4-11
output: 15,385 lbs. each
inspection: on condition

1,000 nm mission with 8 passengers:
runway: 3,413 feet
flight time: 2 hours, 20 minutes
fuel consumed: 5,511 lbs.

for more information, try these links:
General Gulfstream information: http://www.jetadvisors.com/private-jets-aircraft.htm

Gulfstream's official site

Hawker 900XP

2007-03-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

The Hawker 900XP is a close relative of the Hawker 850XP. The cabin and most vital systems will remain virtually the same, but new powerplants will be used. The two Honeywell TFE731-50R engines will enable the Hawker 900XP to climb directly to 41,000 feet and complete trips of up to 2,800 nautical miles while carrying six passengers. These engines are flat rated to 5,000 pounds of thrust apiece, 400 pounds more than the TFE731-5BR engines used on the Hawker 850XP. The initial price quote for the Hawker 900XP is $13.9 million. Many orders have already been placed for the Hawker 900XP, and the first deliveries are expected in late 2007.

information on the Hawker 800 series: http://www.jetadvisors.com/aircrafts/hawker800xp.htm
Raytheon Aircraft Company: http://www.hawkerbeechcraft.com/Default.aspx

New Buyers Guide

2007-03-30T09:53:00.000-07:00

Check out the latest edition of our Buyer's Guide, which includes:

a detailed look at the Citation Sovereign
a comparison of different private jet financing options
the bio of Karl Childs, our newest technical advisor
updated listings of private jets for sale:

Hawker 400 731/fanjet for sale. It's in great mechanical condition, has a fresh coat of paint, and has an upgraded Rockwell Collins glass cockpit.

Citation X 1/8th fractional share. The purchase price is almost $1,000,000 less than it would cost new.

Trip Quote

2007-03-29T13:03:00.000-07:00

Need to take a trip? Don't want to fly commerically? Check out our trip quote page! In collarboration with Jets International, we can find and quote a trip to anywhere you need to go! To link automatically to our trip quote page http://www.jetadvisors.com/charter-quote.htm. To check out our main page, go to www.jetadvisors.com !

Citation XLS

2007-03-28T12:18:00.000-07:00

For those familiar with the Citaition Excel, you'll love Cessna's 'enhanced version' the XLS. It's powerhouse consists of the Pratt & Whitney PW545B. These provide an increase in both takeoff and cruise thrust. The XLS typically seats 8-10 passengers. However, considered one of the roomiest, the XLS offers upgraded ammenities like wider seats with folding armrests.

Specifications:

Internal Length: 24 ft. (overall)

Internal Height: 5.66 ft.

Internal Width: 5.5 ft. (max)
Baggage Capacity: 90 cu. ft.

Four PAX Range: 1,722 nm

Max Fuel Range (4 PAX): 1,724 nm

Max Payload (4 PAX): 1,130 nm

Max Takeoff: 20,200

TOFL (Sea Level, ISA Temp): 3,560

TOFL (5000', @25C): 5,490

Hot/High WAT: 20,200

Long Range Cruise - KTAS: 354

High Speed Cruise - KTAS: 431

For more information on the Citation XLS, visit http://www.jetadvisors.com/aircrafts/citationXLS.htm . You can also find information on the Citation XLS and other Citation jets at www.cessna.com.

New Link

2007-03-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

We have a new link on our website! Go to www.jetadvisors.com and on the right side bar there is a direct link to the aircraft files. From there, you can view many different aircraft, specifications, interior pics, baggage allowances, etc.

Our Staff

2007-03-26T14:31:00.000-07:00

Check out our staff at http://www.jetadvisors.com/private-jet-professionals.htm.

Audits

2007-03-24T18:04:00.000-07:00

Own a jet? Part of a fractional share? If yes, do you really know what you pay for? At Jet Advisors, we offer invoice auditing to help ensure you fly for what you pay. At a low cost, we can help you save lots. Visit our website at www.jetadvisors.com/audits.htm to learn more.

Citation X

2007-03-23T13:27:00.000-07:00

Cessna's Citation X is currently their largest aircraft so far. Certified in 1996 and still in production, the Citation X is powered by two Rolls-Royce/Allison AE3007C turbofan engines giving 6,442 lbs. of thrust each. The Citation X can fit 2 crew members and 8-12 passengers.

Specifications:
Internal Length: 23.9 ft. (overall)
Internal Height: 5.7 ft.
Internal Width: 5.5 ft. (max)

Four PAX Range: 3,125 nm
Max Fuel Range (4 PAX): 3,070 nm
Max Payload (4 PAX):2,703 nm
Max Takeoff: 36,100
TO (Sea Level, ISA Temp): 5,140
TO (5000', @25C): 7,350
Hot/High WAT: 34,980

Long Range Cruise - KTAS: 470
High Speed Cruise - KTAS: 505

For more information on the Citation X, check out our website at http://www.jetadvisors.com/.For a direct link to the Citaiton X page, check out: http://www.jetadvisors.com/aircrafts/citationX.htm

GIII

2007-03-22T13:17:00.000-07:00

The GIII is Gulfstream's third generation and was manufactured from 1979-1987. It can seat 2 captains and anywhere from 14-19 passengers. It is powered by dual Rolls-Royce spey Mk 511-8 turbofans (having 11,400 lbs. of thrust each). Equipped with a redesigned wing that uses drag reducing Whitcomb winglets, the fuel consumption decreased approx. 18% according to Gulfstream.

Specifications:
Internal Length: 41.3 ft. (overall/net height)
Internal Height: 6.1 ft.
Internal Width: 7.3 ft. (max/floor)

Four PAX Range: 3565 nm
Max Fuel Range (4 PAX): 3521 nm
Max Payload (4 PAX): 3022 nm

Max Takeoff: 69,700
TO (Sea Level, ISA Temp): 5,100
TO (5000', @25C): 7,125
Hot/High WAT: 66,200
Long Range Cruise - KTAS: 442
High Speed Cruise - KTAS: 488

For more information on the Gulfstream III, check out our website at www.jetadvisors.com.
For a direct link to the GIII page, check out: http://www.jetadvisors.com/aircrafts/gulfstream-GIII.htm

Check out links to locate Gulfstream's website.

What is Jet Advisors?

2007-03-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

Have you been wondering what exactly Jet Advisors does? Visit our website at http://www.jetadvisors.com/services.htm to see a list of our services. Contact us to inquire about specific details.

Purchase Price of Private Jets

2007-03-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

Check out our website at http://www.jetadvisors.com/aircraft-listings.htm to view the aircraft we have listed. It's a great way to find the jet you're looking for! If you don't see what you're looking for, contact us today and we'll find what you are looking for along with a great price.

Private Jet Buyer's Guide

2007-03-19T14:08:00.000-07:00

Want more information on the private jet industry? Check out our Private Jet Buyer's Guide! The March issue has information on the Citation Sovereign, Aircraft Financing, and the addition of Karl Childs to our staff. You can also look at our previous editions as well as join our mailing list! Check out http://www.jetadvisors.com/emails/email-2007-03.htm and Enjoy!

Press Release

2007-03-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

Former Raytheon Vice President of Sales and Marketing Joins Jet Advisors’ Staff as Private Jet Advisor

Karl R. Childs, expert in private jet sales and marketing, will help Jet Advisors in expanding their jet sales and fractional jet divisions.

Broomfield , CO. March 6, 2007– Private jet brokerage company Jet Advisors announced the addition of Karl Childs to their staff. Mr. Childs will aid in the company’s sales and marketing divisions on an on-going basis.
Mr. Childs has accumulated more than thirty-five years of experience in private jet sales and marketing. Jet Advisors is confident that his expertise will be a valuable asset as they continue to expand their private jet sales and acquisitions division.
Private jet sales and acquisitions will be Jet Advisors’ main focus in the coming year. Other services that Jet Advisors provides, such as private jet and fractional jet ownership consulting, will continue to be available.
Mr. Childs has extensive experience in the private jet sales industry. He has held executive level positions at three major aircraft corporations. Mr. Childs was the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Raytheon Aircraft Company for nine years, where he oversaw all private jet sales and marketing activity worldwide. During his time in charge of Sales and Marketing, Raytheon’s sales and profits steadily increased each year.
Before his success at Raytheon, Mr. Childs was the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Sabreliner Corporation. He held a similar position at Cessna Aircraft Company, where he worked for a total of nineteen years.

Jet Advisors assists companies and high net worth individuals with their private aircraft transactions, operations, and management. They are based in Broomfield, Colorado and routinely handle private jet sales and acquisitions, negotiate charter card agreements, and provide invoice auditing services. With one hundred years of combined industry experience and hundreds of aircraft transactions, Jet Advisors is able to provide accurate and objective information about all aspects of private jet sales and ownership.