Discover five well-known jets that you may want to reconsider today, in 2023, before booking your next flight.
Nothing beats the thrill of flying across continents and marveling at cloud-dotted landscapes. But have you ever considered the type of jet you’re flying on?
Sure, comfort and in-flight service matter a lot, but in this article, we’ll explore five jets that you might want to think twice about before booking your next flight. This isn’t to say they’re bad, per se, but there are certain considerations that might make them less suitable for you.
1. Very Light Jets (VLJs)
These are the smallest private jets, typically seating between 4 and 7 passengers. Examples include the Eclipse 500 or the Cessna Citation Mustang. Why should you be wary? Well, despite their allure of a private, fast, and sometimes cost-effective journey, these jets have limited range and capacity. Long haul flights? Not on these! And, you might want to consider how comfortable you are with tight spaces before settling into one of these.
Due to their smaller size, the interior of a VLJ is inherently compact. The cabin height usually ranges between 4 and 5 feet, meaning that most passengers won’t be able to stand fully upright. The cabin’s width is similarly narrow, with enough space for two small seats on either side of the aisle. Legroom can be limited, so passengers with a taller stature may find the space confining. In some VLJs, the seating arrangement is more akin to a car than a typical private jet, with the seats positioned quite close together.
So, if comfort and spaciousness matter to you, you may want to reconsider choosing a VLJ for your flight.
2. Tupolev Tu-134
A blast from the past, this Soviet-era airplane is still used in some parts of the world. If you’re an aviation history buff, the Tu-134 might seem tempting. Tu-134 Jets offer a unique, albeit not entirely comfortable, flight experience.
The space for each individual is relatively limited. The seat pitch is often less than what is now standard in modern aircraft. This means that passengers, particularly taller ones, might find the space confining and uncomfortable for longer flights.
So, if you fancy a trip back in time, this might appeal, but keep in mind its high noise levels, not-so-comfortable cabin conditions, and below-par safety records compared to modern jets. A flight on a Tu-134 is more of a time machine ride to the Cold War era than a comfortable journey.
3. Lockheed L-188 Electra
This turboprop airliner, once the pride of many fleets, is now a relic. It’s noisy, slow compared to jets, and often lacks the amenities we’ve grown accustomed to.
Due to its smaller size, the Electra offers a unique, vintage flying experience. Its distinctive “old school” interior, with large overhead bins and expansive windows, gives passengers a feel for a different era of travel.
While it has a certain vintage charm, you might find a transcontinental flight on the L-188 less than enjoyable.
4. Convair 880/990
These jetliners were marvels of their time, but now fall far short of today’s standards. With their inefficient four-engine design and lack of modern amenities, you might find yourself longing for the comfort of a more contemporary aircraft.
One distinctive feature of these jets is their noise level. Unlike modern jets that are equipped with noise reduction technologies, the Convair 880/990’s engines can be quite loud, both inside and outside the cabin. This could potentially be a nuisance on long flights and may affect your overall comfort.
Still, if you’re a sucker for nostalgia, a flight on a Convair might just be an adventure.
5. Older Bombardier CRJ Models
Notably, the older CRJ-200 models are known for their cramped conditions and lack of amenities. The new generation models are much improved, but if you’re stuck on a CRJ-200 for a long journey, you might find yourself wishing for more legroom.
Noise is another consideration in the CRJ-200. Because it’s a smaller plane with the engines mounted to the rear of the aircraft, engine noise can be more prominent, especially for those sitting in the back.
Temperature control is another area where the CRJ-200 might not meet passengers’ expectations. While the plane does have an air conditioning system, it’s not as sophisticated as those in newer models, and maintaining a comfortable temperature can be challenging.
Noise, small legroom, vintage charm, and temperature control are nothing compared to a total feeling of comfort flying. Nothing beats the thrill of flying across continents and marveling at cloud-dotted landscapes. But you have to consider the type of jet you’re flying on! Don’t leave your comfort to luck! Enjoy your flights!
If you love the thrill of zipping from one end of the world to another, cruising above the clouds, and marveling at those beautiful sunsets from up high, use an important part of this experience that we often overlook — the comfort airplane we’re flying on.
All in all, flying is more than just a means to an end. It’s an experience that should be enjoyed. There are many fantastic jets out there that can make your journey a real treat. So the next time you’re preparing for a trip, take a moment to consider the jet you’ll be on. It’s not just about reaching your destination; it’s about enjoying the journey too. Here’s to comfortable travels!
