Today, we’re taking you inside one of the most popular light jets in business aviation—the Embraer Phenom 300 and its 2018 upgrade, the Phenom 300E. It was introduced in 2009 as an upgrade from the smaller Phenom 100, with a larger cabin, more powerful engines, and improved features such as spoilers and winglets. Certified for single-pilot operation, it can carry up to 10 passengers and has been the world's best-selling light jet for twelve consecutive years. The production of 700 aircraft underscores the model's success and Embraer's prowess in the competitive aerospace industry.
With its distinct, aerodynamic lines, the Phenom 300 doesn’t just look fast—it is fast. Capable of cruising at speeds up to 513 miles per hour, it’s no surprise that this aircraft continues to be a favorite among pilots and charter operators alike.
Interior
But the Phenom 300 isn’t just about speed. Step inside, and you’re greeted with one of the most spacious and comfortable cabins in its class. The interior, designed by BMW DesignWorksUSA, features standard club seating and optional rotating seats, with a total capacity of 6–8 passengers (standard configurations); 10 passengers maximum (with passenger in cockpit). A lavatory and a small galley are available, but space is limited.
The interior of the Phenom 300 is pure sophistication, with plush leather seating, sleek wooden accents, and the kind of attention to detail that would rival any luxury car. Each seat can fully recline, and with ample headroom at 4.92 feet, even taller passengers won’t feel cramped.
Passengers can enjoy a fully connected experience with onboard Wi-Fi, personalized climate control, and an in-flight entertainment system. Whether you’re relaxing, working, or catching up on your favorite shows, the Phenom 300 has you covered.
The 300E introduced a redesigned, more luxurious interior, including the optional Bossa Nova interior package. This model offers more customization options and comfort features, such as improved soundproofing and a two-person divan option in place of one seat. The cabin layout maximizes space for passengers with more ergonomic seating and advanced cabin management systems.
Cockpit
The cockpit is equipped with the Garmin G1000 avionics suite, featuring traditional control yokes and three 12-inch LCD displays (two flight displays and one multifunction display). The aircraft has a digital three-axis autopilot and fly-by-wire braking systems but lacks some of the advanced features found in the newer 300E model.
The upgraded Phenom 300E uses the more advanced Garmin G3000-based Prodigy Touch system. It also includes modern avionics enhancements such as predictive wind shear awareness, stabilized approach functionality, and the runway overrun awareness and alerting system (ROAAS). This version also offers electronic flight bags as optional equipment and additional safety features like an emergency descent mode in case of cabin depressurization.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Phenom 300 delivers in spades. With a range of 1992 nautical miles, you can fly from New York to Miami, or from London to Moscow, non-stop. And with its exceptional takeoff and landing performance, you can access shorter runways, making it perfect for reaching airports closer to your destination.
Powered by Pratt & Whitney PW535E engines, which provide 3,360 lbf of thrust each. The original model has a maximum cruise speed of Mach 0.78.
Phenom 300E upgraded to Pratt & Whitney PW535E1 engines, providing an increased thrust of 3,478 lbf per engine. This gives the 300E improved performance, including better speed and climb capabilities. Performance upgrades in the 300E increase the maximum cruise speed to Mach 0.80 and the range to 2,010 nautical miles.
Embraer has added numerous other improvements to the 300E model, including better fuel efficiency, reduced noise levels, and optional medevac configurations (Phenom 300MED) for medical transport. The Ground Power Mode allows the engines to run without the aircraft moving, making it more versatile for different operational needs.
Prices
And while it’s tempting to get swept up in the luxury, the Phenom 300 also impresses with its efficiency. Thanks to Embraer’s smart engineering, the aircraft offers some of the lowest operating costs in its class—without sacrificing performance. It’s a win-win for owners and charter customers alike.
In its earlier years, the Phenom 300 was priced around $8-9 million.
The Phenom 300E's equipped price had risen to $10.995 million, reflecting the upgraded features, engines, and interior options.
Chartering a Phenom 300E is estimated at around $3,150 per flight hour, positioning it right in line with the average rates for light jets in its class.
Summary
In summary, the Embraer Phenom 300 is the ultimate light jet for those who demand more—more range, more comfort, more luxury, and more performance. Whether you’re an executive looking for the perfect business jet or a pilot seeking the best in avionics and handling, the Phenom 300 ticks all the right boxes.
So, if you’re in the market for a light jet, why settle for less when you could have it all with the Embraer Phenom 300?
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