5 Business Jets for Under $10 Million
Dec 14, 2024
When it comes to business jets, you don’t have to spend tens of millions to enjoy the benefits of private air travel. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to expand a fleet, there are several high-performing business jets that have typically been available under $10 million. Here’s a look at five options balancing acquisition cost, operating cost, and performance.
Note on pricing: the figures below were compiled in late 2024 and are indicative only. Pre-owned aircraft values move with market conditions, inventory levels, maintenance status, engine programme enrolment, avionics and total time. Hourly operating costs vary with utilisation, fuel price, crew arrangement and maintenance reserves. Always obtain a current valuation and a modelled operating budget before acting.
1. Cessna Citation CJ3+
Indicative price: $6.5–$8.5 million
Indicative hourly cost: approx. $2,000–$2,500
- Seating: up to 9 passengers
- Range: approximately 2,040 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: around 416 knots
- Cabin height: 4.78 feet
A strong choice for efficiency and reliability. Its low operating costs and single-pilot certification suit short to mid-range trips, and the type has a deep support network. For an owner who flies themselves, single-pilot capability removes an entire crew salary from the annual budget.
2. Embraer Phenom 300
Indicative price: $8–$9 million
Indicative hourly cost: approx. $2,500–$3,000
- Seating: up to 10 passengers
- Range: approximately 2,010 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: around 453 knots
- Cabin height: 4.92 feet
One of the most popular light jets on the market, offering strong performance and comfort. Its consistent delivery volume means good parts availability, a broad maintenance network, and a liquid resale market — which matters to a buyer more than most specifications do.
3. Pilatus PC-24
Indicative price: $9–$9.9 million
Indicative hourly cost: approx. $2,200–$2,800
- Seating: up to 8 passengers
- Range: approximately 2,000 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: around 440 knots
- Cabin height: 5.1 feet
Marketed as the “Super Versatile Jet,” the PC-24 is unusual in its ability to operate from short and unpaved runways — a genuine capability difference rather than a marketing claim. It also has a cargo door, which is rare in this class. For buyers whose destinations include strips other jets cannot use, this is often the deciding factor.
4. Gulfstream G150
Indicative price: $7–$9 million (pre-owned)
Indicative hourly cost: approx. $2,700–$3,200
- Seating: up to 8 passengers
- Range: approximately 3,000 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: around 470 knots
- Cabin height: 5.75 feet
A high-performing midsize jet offering strong range and speed for the money, with the tallest cabin in this list. Production has ended, so buyers should factor long-term support planning and resale positioning into the decision — a legitimate consideration rather than a disqualifier, but one a broker should raise rather than leave the client to discover.
5. Bombardier Learjet 75
Indicative price: $9–$10 million
Indicative hourly cost: approx. $2,500–$3,000
- Seating: up to 8 passengers
- Range: approximately 2,040 nautical miles
- Cruise speed: around 464 knots
- Cabin height: 4.92 feet
Combines modern avionics with the performance the Learjet name is known for. Learjet production has now ended, which affects long-term planning in the same way as the G150 — worth stating openly to any client considering the type.
Comparison Table
| Jet model | Indicative price | Range (nm) | Cruise (kt) | Seating | Cabin height | Indicative hourly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cessna Citation CJ3+ | $6.5–$8.5M | 2,040 | 416 | Up to 9 | 4.78 ft | $2,000–$2,500 |
| Embraer Phenom 300 | $8–$9M | 2,010 | 453 | Up to 10 | 4.92 ft | $2,500–$3,000 |
| Pilatus PC-24 | $9–$9.9M | 2,000 | 440 | Up to 8 | 5.1 ft | $2,200–$2,800 |
| Gulfstream G150 | $7–$9M (used) | 3,000 | 470 | Up to 8 | 5.75 ft | $2,700–$3,200 |
| Bombardier Learjet 75 | $9–$10M | 2,040 | 464 | Up to 8 | 4.92 ft | $2,500–$3,000 |
Reading the Table Like a Broker
The specifications alone rarely decide a purchase. A few observations worth making to a client:
- The G150 has both the longest range and the tallest cabin, but the highest hourly cost and an ended production line. That trade-off is the whole decision for some buyers.
- The PC-24 is the only aircraft here that opens up airports the others cannot use. If the mission needs that, nothing else on the list substitutes.
- The CJ3+ has the lowest hourly cost and single-pilot certification — the cheapest to own of the five, if the mission fits within its range.
- Published range assumes favourable conditions. Actual achievable range falls with passenger load, baggage, headwinds and temperature. A 2,040 nm aircraft does not reliably fly a 2,000 nm leg full.
What the Purchase Price Doesn't Tell You
Acquisition cost is the most visible number and rarely the most important. Before recommending any aircraft, establish:
- Engine programme enrolment — can be worth a large fraction of the aircraft's value
- Total time and cycles, and position relative to major inspections
- Damage history and completeness of records
- Avionics status and outstanding mandated upgrades
- Realistic annual utilisation — which determines whether ownership beats charter at all
Records review and inspection scoping are covered in the Aircraft Inspections Masterclass.
Ready to Learn More?
These jets show that private aviation is accessible well under $10 million. Whether you’re a broker advising clients or an operator considering fleet expansion, each offers a different balance of capability and cost.
The Aircraft Sales Broker Course covers valuation, market comparison and the acquisition process end to end. Compare the certification tracks or book a free consultation.
FAQ
Are these prices current?
No. They were compiled in late 2024 and are indicative. Pre-owned values change with inventory, demand, maintenance status and specification. Obtain a current valuation before acting.
Which of these has the lowest operating cost?
On the indicative figures above, the CJ3+ — helped considerably by single-pilot certification, which removes a crew salary for owner-operators.
Why does the Pilatus PC-24 cost more than jets with similar range?
Its short and unpaved runway capability and cargo door give it operational access other jets in the class don't have. Buyers are paying for airport access rather than performance figures.
Should I avoid aircraft whose production has ended?
Not necessarily. Ended production affects long-term support planning and resale, but well-supported types with strong parts availability remain sound purchases. It's a factor to weigh, not a rule.
How do I know if ownership makes sense versus charter?
It comes down to annual hours flown, routing consistency, and how much you value guaranteed availability. Below a certain utilisation, charter is the more rational choice — and a good broker will tell you so.
Related Articles
