Which private jet to charter to get to Crete, Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes? Medium jet or light jet? When choosing the ideal private jet to reach Greek islandssuch as Crete, Mykonos, Santorini, and Rhodes, the decision between a medium jet and a light jet depends on several factors: flight distance, number of passengers, desired comfort, and budget.
Light jets: perfect for short flights and small groups
Light jets, such as the Phenom 300 or Citation CJ3, are ideal for flights of about 2-3 hours and up to 6-7 passengers. They offer lower fuel consumption and lower rental costs, perfect for small groups or shorter trips from nearby European cities such as Athens, Rome or Milan. However, onboard space and range are more limited than medium jets.
Medium jets: more space and range for nonstop direct flights
For those who want more comfort, space for up to 8-9 passengers, and the ability to fly to the Greek islands directly from more distant capitals (such as London, Paris, or Munich) nonstop, the medium jet is the best choice.
What are Crete’s airports like for landing private jets?
Crete has two main airports used for private flights:
- Heraklion (HER): This is the largest and busiest airport on the island, with excellent FBO services for private jets. It offers VIP lounges, fast customs handling, and dedicated staff to ensure comfort and privacy for passengers. It is perfect as an arrival point for those visiting eastern and central Crete.
- Chania (CHQ): Located in western Crete, this is a good alternative for those who want to explore the western part of the island. FBO services here are also of a high standard, with a personalized welcome and quick check-ins.
Both airports have adequate runways for landing medium jets and light jets, making Crete easily accessible by private jet with any of these categories of aircraft.
The best private jets to reach Crete and the Greek islands: the comfort of the Gulfstream G150 and beyond
Among the most popular options, the Gulfstream G150 stands out for its unique combination of comfort, range and performance. This medium jet is ideal for direct flights from Central and Western Europe, thanks to a spacious cabin with ergonomic seats, an advanced pressurization system that maintains internal pressure at the 6,000-foot level-much more comfortable than many other jets-and a range that allows comfortable nonstop travel to Crete and other islands.
In addition to the Gulfstream G150, other medium jets such as the Bombardier Challenger 300 and the Embraer Legacy 450 (Read our review) are great alternatives for those who want to travel with a larger group (up to 8-9 passengers) and a higher level of luxury. These private jets offer quiet cabins, space to work or relax, and are perfect for business travel or exclusive vacations.
Sample routes to Crete, Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes and recommended private jets
- London – Crete (Heraklion)
Flight duration: about 3h 45min
Recommended jet: Gulfstream G150 or Challenger 300
Perfect for a direct flight with maximum comfort, especially if you are traveling with 6-8 people, with bulky luggage or equipment (golf, diving, etc.). - Paris – Mykonos
Flight time: about 3h 15min
Recommended jet: Legacy 450 for space and range, or Citation XLS+ for excellent value for money. - Milan Linate – Santorini Thira
Flight time: about 2h 30min
Recommended jet: Phenom 300 if you are 4-5, or Gulfstream G150 for more comfort and in-flight service. - Zurich – Rhodes
Flight time: about 3h 40min
Recommended jet: Gulfstream G150 or Hawker 900XP for business travel with space to work on board.
Private jet hire tailored to every need
For couples or small groups who want to optimize costs without sacrificing elegance, light jets such as the Citation CJ3+ or Phenom 300 offer a streamlined and fast service, perfect for reaching the islands from Rome, Naples, Athens, or Bari in less than two hours
If you are departing from European capitals or want a superior flying experience medium jets such as the Gulfstream G150, Challenger 300 or Legacy 450 offer unbeatable comfort, range and privacy.
Contact us now to receive a personalized quote and find out which jet is best suited for your next trip to Crete or the Greek islands. We’ll be able to advise you on the ideal model based on your route, number of passengers, and the type of experience you want: With PrivateJetFinder, every detail of your flight will be taken care of to provide you with maximum comfort, privacy, and flexibility.
