The Embraer Phenom 300 is a light jet that redefines its class, delivering performance that rivals many mid-size aircraft in both range and speed. To highlight its exceptional capabilities, let’s compare it to a standout mid-size jet, the Cessna Citation Excel. Phenom 300 vs. Citation Excel: Whether you’re seeking efficiency, comfort, or performance, this comparison will help you determine which aircraft best suits your travel needs.
Phenom 300 Overview
The Phenom 300 has consistently been the best-selling light jet in the world, offering unparalleled speed, efficiency, and luxury. Designed for business and leisure travelers alike, it features a spacious, stylish interior with ergonomic seating and intuitive cabin technology.
What sets the Phenom 300 apart is its cutting-edge safety and performance features. It was the first business jet equipped with a Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS), which enhances operational safety by warning pilots if an approach is too fast or steep. It also boasts remarkable fuel efficiency—Embraer reports that it burns up to 19% less fuel than its closest competitors, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice.
Citation Excel Overview
The Citation Excel is a mid-size jet that combines the best elements of Cessna’s Citation family with enhanced performance and comfort. Known for its spacious cabin and strong runway capabilities, the Excel offers a smooth and reliable experience for both business and leisure travelers.
Powered by twin Pratt & Whitney PW545 engines, the Excel provides ample power and efficiency, reaching cruising altitude in as little as 15 minutes. With the ability to take off from runways as short as 3,500 feet, this aircraft is an excellent option for accessing airports with shorter runways.
Passenger Capacity
• Phenom 300: Typically seats 6
• Citation Excel: Typically seats 7
Seating configurations can vary, but these figures reflect Magellan Jets’ guaranteed arrangements.
Range (4 passengers + NBAA IFR reserves)
• Phenom 300: 1,971 nautical miles
• Citation Excel: 1,657 nautical miles
Though classified as a light jet, the Phenom 300 surpasses the Citation Excel in range, giving travelers more nonstop flexibility.
Cabin Dimensions
Phenom 300:
• Length: 17 ft. 2 in.
• Width: 5 ft. 1 in.
• Height: 4 ft. 9 in.
• Volume: 324 cubic ft.
Citation Excel:
• Length: 18 ft. 5 in.
• Width: 5 ft. 5 in.
• Height: 5 ft. 7 in.
• Volume: 422 cubic ft.
While the Phenom 300 offers a spacious cabin for a light jet, the Citation Excel provides more room to stand and move, enhancing overall comfort on longer flights.
Baggage Capacity
Phenom 300: 84 cubic feet total (10 cubic feet internal, 74 cubic feet external)
Citation Excel: 90 cubic feet total (10 cubic feet internal, 80 cubic feet external)
Both jets offer generous luggage space, accommodating multiple suitcases, golf clubs, and other travel essentials.
Takeoff & Landing Performance (Sea level, standard conditions)
Phenom 300: 3,643 feet
Citation Excel: 3,560 feet
These aircraft both have short takeoff and landing requirements, allowing access to a wide range of airports.
Speed
Phenom 300:
• Normal Cruise: 430 KTAS
• Long-Range Cruise: 383 KTAS
Citation Excel:
• Maximum Cruise: 423 KTAS
• Long-Range Cruise: 373 KTAS
Phenom 300 has a slight edge in speed, making it one of the fastest light jets available.
Engines & Efficiency
Phenom 300: Two Pratt & Whitney PW535E engines
Citation Excel: Two Pratt & Whitney PW545A engines
The Phenom 300 and the Citation Excel feature Pratt & Whitney powerplants, but the Phenom 300 is significantly more fuel-efficient, burning up to 19% less fuel than other light jets and far less per hour than the Excel.
Avionics & Flight Deck
Phenom 300:
• Garmin Prodigy Touch Flight Deck with intuitive touchscreen controls
• Three 12-inch display screens for enhanced situational awareness
• Runway Overrun Awareness and Alerting System (ROAAS)
• Synthetic vision and advanced terrain awareness for increased safety
Citation Excel:
• Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics suite
• FMZ-2000 Flight Management System
• Satellite communications and advanced radar navigation
The Phenom 300’s state-of-the-art Garmin avionics suite provides pilots with a streamlined, intuitive experience, enhancing efficiency and safety.
Experience Private Jet Travel with Magellan Jets
The Phenom 300 and Citation Excel offer outstanding private jet experiences, but choosing the right aircraft depends on your specific travel needs. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, range, and cutting-edge safety features, the Phenom 300 is an exceptional choice. If a larger cabin and short-field performance are top priorities, the Citation Excel is a strong contender.
Interested in learning more about the Phenom 300 vs. Citation Excel? Magellan Jets’ Private Aviation Advisors are here to guide you in selecting the best jet for your journey. Call 877-550-JETS to connect with an expert or explore the many ways to fly with Magellan Jets today.
