Embraer Phenom 300 Review: The Light Jet That Punches Above Its Weight

Overview

The Embraer Phenom 300 is the most successful light jet ever built. Since entering service in 2009, the Phenom 300 and its upgraded variant, the Phenom 300E, have led the light jet delivery charts every single year for more than a decade. Built by Embraer in Brazil with final assembly in Melbourne, Florida, the Phenom 300 was designed to deliver midsize-jet performance in a light-jet package — and it has succeeded beyond anyone's expectations.

What makes the Phenom 300 remarkable is not any single standout feature, but the combination of speed, range, cabin quality, and economics that no other light jet matches simultaneously. It is faster than most midsize jets, has a cabin that feels a class above, and operates at light-jet costs. For charter operators, it is a money-making machine. For passengers, it is the best value in private aviation for groups of 2 to 6.

Performance

The Phenom 300E is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E1 engines, each producing 3,478 pounds of thrust. Maximum cruise speed is an impressive 464 knots (Mach 0.78), which makes the Phenom 300E the fastest single-pilot-certified jet in the world and faster than many midsize jets including the Citation XLS. Long-range cruise at Mach 0.74 yields a maximum range of 2,010 nautical miles with 4 passengers.

The aircraft reaches a maximum altitude of 45,000 feet and requires only 3,209 feet of runway for takeoff — exceptional short-field performance that opens access to hundreds of smaller airports. Maximum takeoff weight is 18,387 pounds. Fuel burn averages approximately 145 gallons per hour, making it one of the most fuel-efficient jets in service.

These numbers tell a story of a light jet with midsize capability. Routes like New York to Miami (1,090 nm), London to Nice (650 nm), Los Angeles to Cabo San Lucas (1,030 nm), and Chicago to Aspen (960 nm) are all well within its range with reserves.

Cabin Experience

The Phenom 300E cabin measures 17 feet 2 inches long, 5 feet 1 inch wide, and 4 feet 11 inches tall. While these dimensions are modest compared to midsize jets, Embraer's interior design team extracted maximum utility from the space. The cabin features a four-seat club arrangement with a side-facing fifth seat or belted lavatory seat aft. The seats themselves are wider than many light-jet competitors, with fold-out tables and power outlets at each position.

The fit and finish of the Phenom 300E interior is where Embraer's commercial aviation heritage shows. Materials, stitching, and panel gaps meet a standard of quality typically seen in larger aircraft. The Phenom 300E introduced Embraer's upper technology panel — a touchscreen controller for cabin lighting, temperature, and entertainment — that was a first in the light jet class.

The baggage compartment holds 74 cubic feet, which is generous for a light jet and sufficient for 4 passengers with full luggage sets. An enclosed lavatory in the aft provides privacy, which is not standard in all light jets. The aircraft is not equipped with a full galley, but a refreshment center handles beverages and light snacks. Many charter operators pre-stock catering from local restaurants for longer flights.

Charter Costs

The Phenom 300 is priced at the premium end of the light jet market but delivers midsize value. Hourly charter rates typically range from $3,200 to $4,800, depending on operator and region. Representative one-way pricing: New York to Miami from $14,000 to $20,000, Los Angeles to Las Vegas from $6,000 to $9,000, London to Geneva from $12,000 to $16,000.

For passengers who would otherwise charter a midsize jet, the Phenom 300 offers savings of 20–35% on routes under 2.5 hours while delivering comparable speed and a cabin that, while narrower, is finished to a higher standard than many older midsize models. The fuel efficiency — 145 gallons per hour versus 185 for a Citation XLS — directly reduces the cost per mile.

Who It's For

The Phenom 300 is the ideal charter aircraft for 2 to 5 passengers on routes under 3 hours. Business travelers making day trips, couples heading to weekend destinations, small executive teams on regional circuits, and anyone who wants private aviation at the lowest possible per-seat cost. The short-field performance makes it perfect for accessing challenging airports like Aspen, St. Barts, Jackson Hole, and Lugano.

If you regularly travel with more than 5 passengers or need a stand-up cabin, the Phenom 300 will feel tight — step up to a midsize Citation XLS or Hawker 800XP. If you need range beyond 2,000 nm, you are looking at midsize or super-midsize territory. But within its design envelope, the Phenom 300 delivers more than any other light jet in production.

Compare on VOLO

Considering the Phenom 300 versus the Citation CJ4, Learjet 75, or HondaJet? Use VOLO's aircraft comparison tool to compare speed, range, cabin dimensions, and charter costs across all 199 aircraft in our catalog. The light jet category has more options than you might expect — our tool helps you find the perfect match for your route and group size.