Embraer Phenom 300E: A Complete Guide 

The Embraer Phenom 300E isn’t just another light jet—it’s a phenomenon. Named the world’s best-selling light jet for 13 consecutive years, this Brazilian masterpiece has redefined what travelers can expect from an aircraft in its class. As the world’s fastest and longest-ranged single-pilot jet in production, the Phenom 300E combines blistering speed, transcontinental range, and cutting-edge technology in a package that delivers the highest residual value in the industry. For discerning operators seeking the ultimate light jet experience, the 300E stands alone. 

What is the Phenom 300E? 

The Embraer Phenom 300E represents the latest evolution of one of business aviation’s most successful aircraft families. Announced on January 31, 2020, as a package of upgrades to the already dominant Phenom 300, the 300E received triple certification from Brazil’s ANAC, the FAA, and EASA in March 2020. Since entering service in mid-2020, this revolutionary light jet has continued the Phenom 300 family’s unprecedented market dominance. 

The Phenom 300E offers slightly better performance compared to the standard Phenom 300, with increased engine thrust, higher high-speed cruise, and marginally longer maximum range. But these modest-sounding improvements translate to significant real-world advantages that keep the aircraft at the top of its class. 

A Legacy of Dominance 

Since its market debut, the Phenom 300 series has surpassed 830 deliveries across 40 countries, accumulating an impressive 2.5 million flight hours. The aircraft’s success isn’t accidental—in 2024 alone,Embraer delivered 65 Phenom 300 series aircraft, ending the year with the industry’s highest book-to-bill. 

The Phenom 300 was originally conceived in the early 2000s when Embraer was designing the Phenom 100 light business jet. Market research revealed numerous potential customers expressing desire for an enlarged model. While design work initially focused on a straightforward scaling up of the Phenom 100, Embraer concluded that a clean-sheet approach was necessary, leading to the adoption of more powerful engines, spoiler-equipped swept wings, and an elongated cabin to accommodate more passengers. 

The prototype Phenom 300 conducted its maiden flight on April 29, 2008, received type certification on December 3, 2009, and entered service that same month. In 2013, the Phenom 300 was the most delivered business jet, and by March 2019, Embraer had delivered the 500th Phenom 300, claiming more than half of the light jet market share since 2012. 

The 300E Advantage 

The Phenom 300E builds on this extraordinary foundation with meaningful enhancements: 

Performance Improvements: 

  • Maximum speed increased from Mach 0.78 to 0.80 (446 to 464 knots) 
  • Expanded endurance from 1,992 to 2,010 nautical miles 
  • Rated engine thrust raised from 3,360 to 3,478 pounds per engine via adoption of improved PW535E1 turbofan engines 

Safety and Technology: 

  • Industry-first Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS) 
  • Predictive windshear awareness 
  • Stabilized approach monitoring 
  • Emergency Descent Mode (EDM) 
  • Autothrottle with coupled go-around functionality 

Performance That Dominates 

Legendary Power and Speed 

The Phenom 300E is powered by twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E1 turbofan engines, each producing 3,478 pounds of thrust. These advanced engines deliver exceptional performance throughout the flight envelope while maintaining remarkable efficiency. 

Speed Capabilities: 

  • High-speed cruise: 464 knots (534 mph / 859 km/h) at Mach 0.80 
  • Normal cruise: 444 knots (822 km/h) 
  • Long-range cruise: 385 knots (713 km/h) 
  • Maximum operating Mach: 0.80 

The Phenom 300E transcends every expectation of what a light jet can do as the world’s fastest and longest-ranged single-pilot jet in production, taking passengers farther and faster than ever before to more destinations around the world. 

Operating Costs 

One of the Phenom 300E’s most compelling advantages is its economical operation relative to its capabilities: 

Hourly Operating Cost: Approximately $3,300 

  • Direct operating cost: Around $1,981 per hour (some sources) 
  • Fuel consumption: Approximately 174 gallons per hour 
  • Breakdown (per some estimates): Fuel $732, Maintenance $562, Engines $525, Other $162 

These costs position the Phenom 300E as one of the most cost-effective jets in its category, balancing high performance with long-term value for owners and operators. The aircraft costs less to operate and maintain than its peers while delivering superior performance. 

Range and Altitude 

Range Performance: 

  • Maximum range: 1,970-2,010 nautical miles with NBAA IFR reserves 
  • Range with four passengers: Approximately 1,971 nautical miles 
  • Range with five occupants: 2,010 nautical miles with reserves 
  • Service ceiling: 45,000 feet 

Altitude and Climb: 

  • Maximum operating altitude: 45,000 feet 
  • Best-in-class climb performance 
  • Ability to reach optimal altitude quickly 
  • Access to smooth air above most weather 

The Phenom 300E’s ability to cruise at 45,000 feet provides jet-like operational flexibility, allowing the aircraft to fly above most weather, reduce turbulence, and optimize route selection for efficiency. 

Short-Field Performance 

The Phenom 300E maintains exceptional runway performance, providing genuine operational flexibility: 

  • Takeoff distance: 3,209 feet (978 meters) 
  • Landing distance: 2,220 feet (677 meters) 
  • Operates comfortably from runways that would challenge larger jets 

This short-field capability means access to thousands of airports throughout North America, Europe, and beyond, including regional airports closer to final destinations, resort locations with challenging runways, and business centers with shorter runways. 

The Sophisticated Cabin Experience 

Spacious and Luxurious Interior 

Every inch of the Phenom 300E has been meticulously designed to offer unprecedented comfort and space, setting new standards for light jets. 

Cabin Dimensions: 

  • Cabin volume: 324-425 cubic feet (sources vary; Embraer states 425 cu ft) 
  • Cabin length: 17.2 feet (5.2 meters) 
  • Cabin height: 4.9 feet (1.49 meters) 
  • Cabin width: 5.1 feet (1.55 meters) 
  • Baggage volume: 66 cubic feet — among the largest in its category 

Seating Capacity: 

  • Standard configuration: 7-9 passengers plus 2 pilots 
  • Typical executive layout: 8 passengers 
  • High-density configuration: Up to 11 passengers (with passenger in cockpit, optional side-facing divan, and optional belted lavatory) 
  • Most aircraft ordered with seating for eight, including a two-place side-facing divan 

The Phenom 300E features an oval-shaped cabin that provides greater comfort for passengers compared to traditional circular fuselages. This design philosophy, part of Embraer’s DNA Design approach, maximizes usable space and creates a more spacious feel throughout the cabin. 

Best-in-Class Pressurization 

Superior cabin pressurization maintains a cabin altitude of just 5,600 feet when cruising at 41,000 feet—the best pressurization among light jets. This remarkably low cabin altitude is a genuine differentiator, helping passengers arrive feeling refreshed rather than fatigued—a critical advantage for business travelers who need to perform immediately upon landing. 

Passenger Amenities and Comfort 

Embraer DNA Design Interiors: 

  • Premium leather seating with full reclining and movement capability 
  • Ergonomic design inspired by automotive excellence 
  • Individual fold-out work tables for productivity 
  • Largest windows in the class delivering abundant natural lighting 
  • Natural light extends even into the private lavatory 

Modern Conveniences: 

  • Distinct temperature zones for pilots and passengers 
  • Private enclosed lavatory with externally-serviced capability 
  • Wardrobe for garment storage 
  • Refreshment center for beverages and light meals 
  • Voice and data communications options 
  • Advanced entertainment system with connectivity 
  • USB charging ports throughout 
  • LED lighting with dimming controls 

Bossa Nova Interior Option: The Phenom 300E introduced the Bossa Nova interior option, featuring contemporary design elements, premium materials, and enhanced aesthetics that elevate the cabin experience to new heights. 

Generous Baggage Capacity 

With 66 cubic feet of baggage space—among the largest in its category—the Phenom 300E ensures passengers never compromise on luggage. The walk-in baggage compartment can accommodate golf bags, ski equipment, extended trip luggage, and business essentials with room to spare. 

Cutting-Edge Avionics: Prodigy Touch Flight Deck 

Revolutionary Cockpit Technology 

At the heart of the Phenom 300E’s cockpit lies the Prodigy Touch Flight Deck (G3000), a marvel of engineering that minimizes workload and pilot fatigue. Based on the acclaimed Garmin G3000 avionics suite, this state-of-the-art touch-controlled flight deck was designed to anticipate every need. 

Key Features: 

  • Large touchscreen displays with intuitive interfaces 
  • Simplified single-pilot operation (though typically flown with two crew) 
  • Synthetic Vision Technology for enhanced situational awareness 
  • Multi-Scan Weather Radar Scanner with volumetric auto-scan technology 
  • Vertical navigation (VNAV) capabilities 
  • Graphical flight planning for intuitive route management 
  • SurfaceWatch technology preventing runway incursions 
  • Four-color weather radar with vertical scan, ground clutter suppression, and turbulence detection 
  • Wind shear alerting for proactive safety 

Industry-First Safety Systems 

The Phenom 300E’s runway overrun awareness and alerting system (ROAAS) represents a pioneering advancement—the first technology of its kind to be developed and certified in business aviation. This system provides real-time awareness of runway stopping distance, dramatically reducing the risk of runway excursions. 

Additional Safety Features: 

  • Autothrottle reducing pilot workload and protecting against over-torque 
  • Coupled go-around functionality for enhanced safety during missed approaches 
  • Emergency Descent Mode (EDM) for added in-flight protection 
  • Predictive windshear awareness providing advance warning of dangerous conditions 
  • Stabilized approach monitoring ensuring safe approach parameters 
  • TCAS I integration for traffic collision avoidance 
  • Terrain Awareness Warning System (TAWS) for obstacle avoidance 

Connected Aircraft 

The Phenom 300E features 4G connectivity via Gogo Avance L5, ensuring passengers and crew remain connected throughout the flight. FAA datacom capability provides digital communication between aircraft and air traffic control, improving efficiency and reducing radio congestion. 

Single-Pilot Certified 

Certified for single-pilot operation, the Phenom 300E is accessible to appropriately trained owner-operators while reducing crew costs. The sophisticated avionics, automated systems, and pilot-friendly design make the aircraft manageable for qualified single pilots, though many corporate operators choose to fly with two crew members for added safety and capability. 

Market Dominance and Value 

Unprecedented Success 

The Phenom 300E’s market performance speaks louder than any marketing claim: 

Delivery Statistics: 

  • Best-selling light jet for 13 consecutive years 
  • Most delivered twin-engine jet for five consecutive years 
  • Over 830 deliveries worldwide across 40 countries 
  • Over 2.5 million flight hours accumulated 
  • 65 aircraft delivered in 2024 with industry’s highest book-to-bill 

Market Share: 

  • More than half of the light jet market share since 2012 
  • Largest annual delivery rate with over 50 jets delivered on average since December 2009 
  • Continued demand despite mature product lifecycle 

Pricing and Value Retention 

New Aircraft (2025): 

  • List price: $9.95-10.995 million (equipped) 
  • 2025 Q2 factory list price: $10,995,000 
  • Represents exceptional value for capabilities delivered 

Pre-Owned Aircraft: 

  • Average pre-owned: $6.495 million (your data) 
  • Recent market data suggests: $11.3 million average for pre-owned 300E models 
  • Pre-owned market availability: Just 3.3% of the fleet (indicating strong owner retention) 
  • Average days on market: 83 days (sells quickly) 

Exceptional Value Retention: Maintaining the highest residual value in the industry, the Phenom 300E protects owner investment better than virtually any comparable light jet. This strong residual value reflects sustained market demand, proven reliability, and continued desirability among discerning buyers. 

Competitive Advantages 

When comparing the Phenom 300E to alternatives, several advantages become clear: 

vs. Competing Light Jets: 

  • Fastest in class (464 knots high-speed cruise) 
  • Longest range (2,010 nautical miles) 
  • Best cabin pressurization (5,600-foot cabin altitude) 
  • Largest windows in class 
  • Industry-first ROAAS safety system 
  • Superior residual value retention 

vs. Larger Midsize Jets: 

  • Significantly lower acquisition cost ($4-6 million savings) 
  • Lower operating costs (30-40% less) 
  • Single-pilot certified (reduced crew costs) 
  • Similar short-field performance 
  • Comparable passenger comfort for typical missions 
  • Better fuel efficiency 

Environmental Responsibility 

Sustainable Aviation Fuel Testing 

Embraer’s Phenom 300E and Praetor 600 completed 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) flight tests, demonstrating the company’s commitment to reducing aviation’s environmental impact. As SAF becomes more widely available, Phenom 300E operators can reduce their carbon footprint without compromising performance. 

Efficiency Leadership 

The Phenom 300E’s aerodynamic design, efficient engines, and optimized systems deliver excellent fuel economy relative to performance. The aircraft’s 18% composite materials construction reduces weight while maintaining strength, contributing to overall efficiency. 

Is the Phenom 300E Right for You? 

The Embraer Phenom 300E excels in numerous critical areas: 

Market Leadership: Best-selling light jet for 13 consecutive years—proven by thousands 
Speed: Fastest single-pilot jet at 464 knots (Mach 0.80) 
Range: 1,970-2,010 nautical miles for transcontinental missions 
Operating Economy: $3,300/hour competitive with light jet peers 
Spacious Cabin: 324-425 cubic feet with 7-9 passenger seating 
Best Pressurization: 5,600-foot cabin altitude—lowest in class 
Advanced Safety: Industry-first ROAAS, autothrottle, EDM 
Value Retention: Highest residual value in industry 
Short-Field Access: 3,209-foot takeoff, 2,220-foot landing 
Single-Pilot Certified: Owner-operator flexibility 
Proven Reliability: 2.5 million fleet hours demonstrate dependability 

The Perfect Aircraft For: 

Business Executives and Entrepreneurs: Fastest light jet for time-sensitive missions, transcontinental range eliminates fuel stops, single-pilot option for qualified owner-operators, and lowest operating costs among high-performance light jets. 

Corporate Flight Departments: Proven reliability with 830+ delivered, excellent dispatch rates, passenger appeal with spacious, quiet cabin, and worldwide support network from Embraer. 

Fractional and Charter Operators: Most requested light jet in fractional fleets, high utilization capability, strong residual values protecting investment, and passenger satisfaction drives repeat bookings. 

Owner-Operators: Single-pilot certified with pilot-friendly avionics, exceptional performance for personal and business travel, industry-leading value retention, and manageable operating costs. 

The Bottom Line: The Undisputed Champion 

The world’s best-selling light jet combines best-in-class speed, range and cabin pressurization with innovative technology and uncompromising comfort to achieve the highest residual value in the industry—proof of how far you can go with an approach that begins by rethinking everything. 

The compelling value proposition: 

For approximately $3,300 per hour, you get the fastest, longest-range, single-pilot certified business jet in production. The spacious cabin provides genuine comfort for up to nine passengers with the best pressurization in its class. Industry-first safety systems like ROAAS provide peace of mind that no competitor can match. Short-field performance opens up thousands of airports while 45,000-foot capability provides jet-like operational flexibility. 

What makes the Phenom 300E special: 

It’s not just about individual specifications—it’s about the total package. Thirteen consecutive years as the world’s best-selling light jet isn’t marketing hyperbole; it’s validation from hundreds of operators and thousands of passengers who choose the Phenom 300E day after day. The highest residual value in the industry means your investment is protected. The highest book-to-bill means demand continues to outpace supply. The 2.5 million fleet hours mean proven reliability you can depend on. 

The verdict: 

Whether you’re upgrading from a smaller jet, seeking the ultimate light jet for personal use, building a fractional or charter fleet, or equipping a corporate flight department, the Phenom 300E delivers capabilities that justify its premium positioning. Its combination of speed (fastest in class), range (longest in class), comfort (best pressurization), safety (industry-first systems), and value retention (highest residuals) is simply unmatched. 

The Phenom 300E isn’t just the best light jet available—it’s in a category of its own. As the benchmark against which all other light jets are measured, it continues setting standards that competitors struggle to match. With continuous improvements, unwavering quality, and a track record that speaks for itself, the Phenom 300E represents the pinnacle of light jet achievement. 


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