Some of the most frequently asked questions about onboard amenities revolve around private jet bathrooms. Do private jets have bathrooms, and if they do, what can you expect?

In industry terms, it’s more accurate to say private jet lavatories (sometimes shortened to ‘lavs’). And these days, even on the smallest private jets including our fleet of HondaJets, you’ll frequently find a lavatory with upgraded features far beyond what’s expected, even in business class.

In comparison to what’s available on commercial airlines, charters offer much more than just a functional space. But what does that look like in practice? From more spacious layouts, refined finishes, and upgraded technologies to improved cleanliness and hygiene, here is what you can expect to see in a private jet bathroom.

Evolution of private jet bathrooms.

Surprising as it may be, the very first aircraft fitted with a lavatory was back in 1919 in the Handley Page Type W. Over the next few decades, aircraft models like the British Supermarine Stranraer and the Short Sunderland Flying Boat also had various iterations of an onboard lavatory.

At best, these early designs offered nothing more than an emergency option and certainly no privacy. In some configurations, the toilet was simply placed in the center of the plane. In other designs, the lid opened to open air — passengers at the time reported a deafening whistle when opened during flight.

Slowly, airplane lavatories evolved away from open-air models to enclosed versions. However, these versions were still more akin to a glorified bucket than what we’ve come to expect onboard today. Generally, they were reserved for mid-flight emergencies.

In the 1930s, as the commercial airline industry took off, so too did improvements to aircraft lavatories. Gradually, this meant fully enclosed and private spaces, flush technology, and sinks, as well as other hygienic upgrades.

The next evolution: Private jets with bathrooms.

Private jet bathrooms are a continuation of this technological progression. Private lavatories go above and beyond anything available on commercial flights to offer passengers an unprecedented level of discretion, cleanliness, and attention to detail.

To start, private jets have noticeably larger lavatories than their commercial counterparts. Depending on the jet model, it’s not unusual to find a separate seat inside the lavatory for passengers to use along an expanded vanity where they can prepare for their next meeting or event.

Then, you’ll also find elevated design features like an actual sink, running hot and cold water, a large vanity, and skylights. All of these elements stand in stark contrast to the cramped, windowless plastic box onboard commercial jets.

Finally, if you step onboard a larger jet model, finding a shower is increasingly common. Although this isn’t a guarantee (every model’s layout and design varies), if you find yourself on a newer Gulfstream G700, for example, a shower is locked into the interior lavatory design. Showers offer passengers the perfect mid-flight rejuvenation on long-haul international missions.

Features of private jet bathrooms.

Notably, the underlying difference between private and commercial jets is that lavatories in private aircraft are not just functional spaces. From the finishings to the technology, the space is designed around the needs of the passengers.

High-end finishings

Private jet bathrooms are often outfitted with luxurious design elements, like modern faucets, ceramic or glass sinks, real marble vanities, wood finishings, and comfortable seating. Many also incorporate touchless technology for enhanced hygiene and convenience.

Running hot and cold water

Unlike the temperature- and time-controlled faucets on most commercial flights, bathrooms in private jets typically feature hot and cold running water. Combined with a flushable toilet, this means passengers get a more comfortable and hygienic restroom experience.

Windows and skylights

One of the most noticeable features within a private jet lav is the inclusion of windows or even skylights in the design. Windows create an open ambiance, allowing natural light to illuminate the space. It will immediately feel like a larger, more welcoming space than the typical cramped, poorly lit option on a commercial equivalent.

Shower facilities

There may be enough room to include shower facilities in larger, long-range private jets, like the Bombardier G7500. This feature is particularly valued on long-haul flights, allowing passengers to freshen up for landing.

Smart technologies

Today, private jet manufacturers are increasingly incorporating modern, smart technologies. From automated temperature control to digital faucets and intelligent lighting systems, these features enhance the space’s functionality and cleanliness.

What to expect on board the smallest private jets with bathrooms.

Yes, it’s true. Even some of the smallest private jets often come with a bathroom. In the light and very light jet classes (designed for missions under three hours carrying from four to 10 passengers), you’ll find that most of the newer models are equipped with an in-cabin lavatory.
On the smaller jets, you’ll find two types of facilities: semi-enclosed and fully-enclosed.

Semi-enclosed lavatories

Onboard very light and light jets, space is at a premium. A semi-enclosed restroom offers less privacy than a fully enclosed space, typically using a curtain or a partial partition instead of a full door to separate it from the cabin.

You can expect a basic setup with a chemical, non-flushing toilet and a small sink. In some cases, it may even be a hand sanitizer dispenser. Semi-enclosed lavatories are designed to be compact yet functional.

Models with Semi-Enclosed Lavatories: Phenom 100, Cessna Citation Mustang, Learjet 35

Fully-enclosed lavatories

Fully-enclosed facilities are a substantial upgrade, designed for a higher level of privacy thanks to solid floor-to-ceiling doors, running water, and vanity mirrors. Some models even manage to incorporate storage space for toiletries.

On board certain models, like in a HondaJet lavatory, you can also find a certified lav seat, which doubles as a legal passenger seat when needed. It’s usually cushioned similarly to the cabin seats and equipped with a safety belt.

Models with Fully-Enclosed Lavatories: HondaJet, Embraer Phenom 100, Cessna Citation Ultra

Private jet bathroom FAQs.

Designed for in-flight comfort: Step inside private jet bathrooms.

Private jet bathrooms go far beyond the basic functional facilities we’ve come to expect on commercial airlines to offer amenities and features that greatly enhance the travel experience. Whether it’s a touchless faucet, a bright skylight, or a backlit vanity, every element caters to the needs of the passengers.

We’d love to introduce you to the future of private jet design. Fly Volato.