Looking for a 20-passenger private jet? Discover the few aircraft that actually fit 20+, real charter prices, when to split into two jets, and the cheapest way to fly large groups privately in 2025.
Top Aircraft Options for 20-Passenger Private Jet Charters
No single "20-passenger private jet" dominates, but these models excel for large groups. Configurations vary; VIP setups prioritize luxury over density.
Aircraft Model | Max Passengers | Range (NM) | Cabin Features | Hourly Charter Rate (2025) | Best For |
| Bombardier Challenger 850 | 16-25 (VIP config) | 2,800 | 3-zone cabin, galley, dual lavs, 202 cu ft baggage | $8,000-$12,000 | Transcontinental U.S. groups; derived from CRJ-200 for shuttle-style travel. |
| Bombardier CRJ-200 VIP | 16-24 (exec config) | 1,900 | Custom zones, Wi-Fi, up to 308 cu ft baggage | $7,000-$10,000 | Short-haul regional; airline-style but luxurious. Contour Aviation flies many. |
| Boeing Business Jet (BBJ 737) | 18-50 (VIP config) | 6,000+ | Bedrooms, showers, conference rooms, 5,396 cu ft cabin | $12,000-$18,000 | Long-haul international; ultimate for 20+ with first-class vibes. |
| Embraer Lineage 1000E | 19-40 (custom) | 4,600 | 5 zones, stand-up shower, 443 cu ft baggage | $14,000-$17,000 | Global trips; fly-by-wire for smooth rides. |
| Embraer Lineage 1000E | 18-56 (first-class config) | 6,00 | Multi-deck luxury, gyms, up to 2,000 sq ft | $15,000-$25,000 | Ultra-large groups; rare in North America (3-4 available). |
*Rates exclude fuel surcharges, landing fees ($500 - $5,000 intl.), and taxes (e.g., $5/passenger U.S. segment fee). Sources: AvBuyer, Paramount Business Jets.
For 20 exactly? Opt for a BBJ or ACJ in high-density VIP mode. "There's the Challenger 850 with Triad, which can accommodate up to 25 passengers - those older ones," shares Paramount Aviation Advisor. If unavailable, split into two 10-passenger super-mids like Citation Sovereigns.
Splitting the Group: When and How to Use Two Jets
If a single jet isn't feasible (e.g., due to runway limitations at smaller airports), splitting is the go-to. "I just do two 10-passenger options... usually I would suggest just splitting," says Paramount Aviation Advisor. Benefits: Lower costs, more availability, and flexibility for staggered arrivals.
- Two Super-Midsize Jets (e.g., Challenger 350): Seats 8-10 each; ideal for medium-haul. Total cost: 20-30% less than one VIP airliner.
- For Short Hops: Two turboprops (e.g., King Air 350, 8-9 seats each) if under 500 miles- but not for 10 each, as another Aviation Advisor notes: "You cannot put 10 passengers on a turboprop."
- Coordination Tip: Brokers handle logistics; explain you're a broker upfront to manage expectations.
Private Jet Charter Costs for 20 Passengers in 2025
Costs hinge on distance, aircraft, and extras (catering: $500-$2,000; de-icing: $1,000+). Hourly rates: $7,000-$25,000. For 20, factor in shared pricing-often $500-$1,500/person on splits.
Route | Single Jet Option (eg., BBJ) | Split (Two 10-Seaters) | Est. Total Cost (One-Way) | Flight Time |
| Los Angeles to Las Vegas (Short Hop) | CRJ-200 VIP | Two Challenger 350s | $25,000-$40,000 | 45-60 min |
| New York to London (Transatlantic) | ACJ319 or BBJ | Two Gulfstream G650s | $150,000-$300,000 | 6.5-7.5 hrs |
| Miami to the Bahamas (Nassau) | Lineage 1000E | Two Citation Latitudes | $15,000-$30,000 | 45-60 min |
*Examples: LA-Vegas split saves $10k+ vs. single large jet; NYC-London BBJ for 20: ~$470k round-trip. Add 10-20% for peak seasons (holidays, events). Empty legs cut 30-75%-check brokers like Flexjet or Paramount.
Route Spotlights: Tailored for 20-Passenger Groups
Los Angeles to Las Vegas: Quick Escapes for Events
For Vegas weekends, split two light jets from Van Nuys (VNY) to Harry Reid (LAS). "For a short hop, you could even do two turboprops," suggests Richard Zaher - but upgrade for comfort. Cost: $25k total; land near the Strip in 45 minutes.
New York to London: Transatlantic Power Moves
Finance execs love this route. A BBJ from Teterboro (TEB) to Luton (LTN) fits 20 in first-class style. "Usually a BBJ or ACJ319 will accommodate 18 -19... but for bigger groups, it's not even an option unless first-class config up to 52," per Aviation Advisor. Cost: $150k+; nonstop in 7 hours.
Miami to the Bahamas: Island Hopping in Style
Proximity makes this ideal for splits. From OPF to Nassau (NAS), two midsize jets whisk 20 to the beaches. "Always run the routing... some do have airplanes that can accommodate," says another Aviation Advisor: $15k-$30k; 45-minute flight to paradise.
Expert Advice: How Brokers Handle "20-Passenger" Requests
From the transcript: Start with details: budget, flexibility on numbers, route. "We just kind of discuss the options... inform the clients of what their options are," says another Aviation Advisor. VIP airliners like BBJs are pricey and scarce ("very few on the market... almost none in the US"), so splits win for most. Advisor adds: "20-seat jets available, mostly airline config CRJs... or Challenger 850 up to 25."
Ready to Book Your 20-Passenger Private Jet Charter?
For seamless private jet experiences for 20 passengers, partner with a broker like us. Get personalized quotes, empty legs, and 24/7 support. Contact today for routes like NYC-London or Miami-Bahamas—elevate your group travel in 2025. Safe skies!
Sources: Aggregated from AvBuyer, Haute Jets, Paramount Business Jets, and broker insights (2025 data).
