The Embraer Phenom 300 has dominated the light jet market for over a decade, and for good reason. Its blend of elegant design, passenger comfort, and advanced technology has consistently made it a top choice for owner-operators and fractional jet programs alike. The updated Phenom 300E, introduced in 2017, builds upon this success, enhancing the original model with the latest innovations and even more luxurious options. For those considering an aircraft in this class, understanding the nuances between the Phenom 300 and 300E is crucial. This article provides a detailed comparison of their specifications, helping you discern which model best fits your needs.
A Legacy of Innovation: Embraer in the Business Jet Market
Embraer’s journey into the business jet market began in the early 2000s, marking a significant shift for the Brazilian aerospace company previously focused on military and commercial aircraft. The launch of the Legacy 600 in 2000 signaled their ambition, but it was the unveiling of the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300 in 2005 that truly cemented their place in the light jet segment. Production of the Phenom 300 commenced in 2009, quickly establishing itself as a leader, characterized by its clean-sheet design, powerful engines, and BMW-designed luxury interiors.
The Phenom 300’s success is undeniable. It has consistently been the most delivered business jet in its class, with over 530 aircraft delivered and more than a million flight hours logged. The introduction of the Phenom 300E further solidified this position, offering enhancements that keep it ahead of competitors like the Cessna Citation CJ4 and Pilatus PC-24. Both models share a foundation of groundbreaking technology and passenger-centric design, but the 300E brings notable upgrades to the table. Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of their specifications.
Side-by-Side Specs Comparison: Phenom 300 vs Phenom 300E
To clearly illustrate the differences and similarities, let’s examine a side-by-side comparison of the key specifications for the Embraer Phenom 300 and Phenom 300E.
| Feature | Phenom 300 | Phenom 300E |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | ||
| Max Cruise Speed | 446 knots (513 mph, 826 km/h) | 464 knots (534 mph, 859 km/h) |
| High-Speed Cruise | Mach 0.78 | Mach 0.80 |
| Range (5 occupants) | 1,992 nautical miles (2,292 miles, 3,689 km) | 2,010 nautical miles (2,313 miles, 3,723 km) |
| Max Operating Altitude | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Climb Rate | Up to 3,000 ft/minute | Up to 3,000 ft/minute |
| Takeoff Distance | 3,209 ft (978 m) | 3,209 ft (978 m) |
| Landing Distance | 2,676 ft (816 m) | 2,676 ft (816 m) |
| Engines | ||
| Engine Model | Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E | Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E |
| Thrust per Engine | 3,360 lbs (14.9 kN) | 3,478 lbs (15.5 kN) |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wingspan | 52 ft 2 in (15.9 m) | 52 ft 2 in (15.9 m) |
| Length | 51 ft 4 in (15.6 m) | 51 ft 4 in (15.6 m) |
| Height | 16 ft 9 in (5.1 m) | 16 ft 9 in (5.1 m) |
| Cabin Volume | 324 cu ft (9.17 cu m) | 324 cu ft (9.17 cu m) |
| Baggage Volume | 84 cu ft (2.38 cu m) | 84 cu ft (2.38 cu m) |
| Weights | ||
| Max Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | 17,968 lbs (8,150 kg) | 18,387 lbs (8,340 kg) |
| Max Landing Weight | 16,755 lbs (7,600 kg) | 16,755 lbs (7,600 kg) |
| Max Payload | 2,425 lbs (1,100 kg) | 2,535 lbs (1,150 kg) |
| Avionics | ||
| Flight Deck | Garmin G1000 Prodigy Touch | Garmin G3000 Prodigy Touch |
| Cabin Features | ||
| Typical Seating | 6-10 passengers | 6-10 passengers |
| Lavatory | Full Lavatory with Sink | Full Lavatory with Sink |
This specification table highlights that while both aircraft share many core features, the Phenom 300E offers enhancements primarily in performance and avionics. Let’s explore these differences in more detail.
Enhanced Performance: Speed, Range, and Engines
While both the Phenom 300 and 300E are powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E turbofan engines, the 300E variant boasts a slightly more powerful iteration. The Phenom 300E engines produce 3,478 pounds of thrust each, compared to the 3,360 pounds in the Phenom 300. This increase in thrust translates to improved performance metrics, most notably in cruise speed.
The Phenom 300E cruises at a maximum speed of 464 knots (534 mph), while the Phenom 300 achieves 446 knots (513 mph). This speed advantage, coupled with a slight range increase (2,010 nautical miles for the 300E vs 1,992 for the 300), makes the 300E marginally faster and capable of traveling slightly further. Both jets, however, share the same impressive climb rate and takeoff distance, ensuring access to a wide range of airports, including those with shorter runways and challenging conditions. This short-field performance is a significant advantage, allowing operators to reach more destinations and reduce ground travel time.
Advanced Avionics: Prodigy Touch Flight Deck
One of the most significant upgrades in the Phenom 300E is its advanced avionics suite. The original Phenom 300 features the Garmin G1000 Prodigy Touch Flight Deck, a sophisticated system that was cutting-edge at its time. The Phenom 300E, however, elevates the cockpit experience with the Garmin G3000 Prodigy Touch Flight Deck.
The G3000 system in the Phenom 300E incorporates larger, higher-resolution displays – three 14.1-inch screens compared to the G1000’s displays. These larger screens offer split-screen functionality, allowing pilots to simultaneously view critical flight information, maps, charts, and flight plans. Data entry is streamlined through two 5.7-inch touchscreen controllers, featuring an intuitive icon-based interface.
The G3000 suite also includes advanced safety and situational awareness features such as SurfaceWatch™, vertical navigation, windshear alerting weather radar, runway overrun awareness and alerting system (ROAAS), predictive windshear, and Synthetic Vision System (SVS). These technologies enhance safety, reduce pilot workload, and contribute to a more efficient and enjoyable flying experience. While older Phenom 300 models with the G1000 can be upgraded to the G1000 NXi, the G3000 in the 300E represents a more comprehensive and advanced integrated system from the factory.
Cabin Comfort and Design: A Luxurious Passenger Experience
Both the Phenom 300 and 300E excel in passenger comfort, thanks to Embraer’s focus on design and craftsmanship. The Oval Lite® cabin cross-section, unique to the Phenom series, maximizes vertical space and legroom, providing a more spacious feel than comparable jets. Large windows, including a window in the lavatory, enhance the sense of openness and natural light within the cabin.
The Phenom 300 series boasts 10.5% more cabin volume than the Cessna Citation CJ4, translating to a more comfortable environment for passengers. Seating configurations accommodate 6 to 10 passengers, with options for a refreshment center and a full lavatory. The cabin altitude of 6,600 feet when flying at 45,000 feet is also class-leading, reducing fatigue on longer flights.
The Phenom 300E introduces the premium interior Bossa Nova package, which elevates the cabin experience even further. This enhanced interior features improved headrests, retractable armrests, adjustable thigh bolsters, and custom stitching, earning it the 2020 Private Jet Design award. While the fundamental cabin dimensions and design remain consistent between the 300 and 300E, the 300E offers more refined and customizable interior options.
Value, Reliability, and Operating Costs
The Phenom 300 series is renowned for its strong value retention and dispatch reliability. Pre-owned Phenom 300s hold their value exceptionally well compared to competitors like the Citation CJ4, making them a sound investment. Fractional operators like Flexjet praise the Phenom 300 for its 99% dispatch reliability, highlighting its dependability in demanding commercial operations.
In terms of operating costs, the Phenom 300 series offers competitive figures. Innovations like single-point refueling and an externally serviced lavatory contribute to efficient ground operations and reduced turnaround times. Embraer’s global support network ensures readily available maintenance and service. Furthermore, Embraer has extended the maintenance intervals for the Phenom series, reducing downtime and lowering long-term maintenance costs. While specific operating costs can vary based on usage and market conditions, the Phenom 300 series generally presents a favorable economic profile within the light jet category.
Conclusion: Choosing Between the Phenom 300 and 300E
Both the Embraer Phenom 300 and 300E are exceptional light business jets, each offering a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and value. The Phenom 300E represents an evolution of an already successful platform, incorporating advancements in avionics, engine thrust, and interior design.
For buyers prioritizing the latest technology and incremental performance gains, the Phenom 300E is the clear choice. Its Garmin G3000 avionics suite and slightly enhanced speed and range provide a cutting-edge flying experience. However, the original Phenom 300 remains a highly capable and desirable aircraft. Pre-owned Phenom 300s offer excellent value in the market, providing access to the renowned Phenom platform at a potentially lower acquisition cost.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and priorities. Whether opting for the proven performance of the Phenom 300 or the enhanced features of the Phenom 300E, owners can expect a world-class light jet that delivers on its promise of performance, luxury, and efficiency.
References:
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[1] “Embraer Phenom 300 was the most delivered light jet last year.” Aerospace Manufacturing, 21 Feb. 2020.
[2] Chase, Mike. “Cessna Citation CJ4 vs Embraer Phenom 300/300E.” AvBuyer.com, 01 Oct. 2018.
[3] Huber, Mark. “Embraer Phenom 300.” Business Jet Traveler, May 2017.
[4] Embraer boosts Phenom maintenance to 800 flight hours. Embraer.com, 27 Jul. 2020.
