THE LIGHT PANTASTIC

In the world of private aviation, the large-cabin, long-range jets tend to steal most of the limelight. And for good reason; the top-shelf Dassault, Gulfstream and Bombardier jets can fly nearly 9,000 miles without stopping. They also have more cabin space and all the bells and whistles. And of course, if those make sense for your mission, no one is going to talk you out of buying one.

These days, though, there’s another category that’s worth a second look. Light jets, and even some of the more advanced turboprops, are redefining what small aircraft can do. In many cases they come with a long list of benefits: lower cost to maintain and operate; significantly reduced fuel burn; a lighter environmental footprint; and far better versatility. It may be on this last