VLJ operators expect to attract more passengers but face increasing competition from larger aircraft, a conference in the UK was told. Operators point out that, while operating VLJs costs less than operating larger business jets, they are by no means cheap and, in terms of price, there is tough competition with aircraft such as the CJ1 and CJ2, the Premier 1 and small turboprops.

Concern about "over-optimism" on the part of some air taxi operators is shared by Wondair of Valencia, Spain, which is building an 11-strong fleet of Phenom 100s, Phenom operator Jetquik of the United States and the UK's London Executive Aviation (LEA).

However, there is a belief that VLJs have weathered the tough times and that the sector, and private aviation, has grounds for optimism in the future.