Bombardier Challenger 300 vs Embraer Phenom 300

The Embraer Phenom 300 (best-selling light jet) and the Bombardier Challenger 300 (super-midsize) sit in different segments — the Phenom is a light jet for ~6-8 pax; the Challenger 300 is super-mid for ~8-9 pax with a much larger cabin and longer range.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Bombardier Challenger 300 Embraer Phenom 300
Bombardier Challenger 300
View 48 listings →
Median $11,986,566
Embraer Phenom 300
View 76 listings →
Median $9,490,000
Price Range $4,150,000 – $14,295,000 $7,495,000 – $14,750,000
Category Super-Midsize Jet Light Jet
Model Specifications
Seats 10 10
Cruise Speed 450 kts (833 km/h) 430 kts (796 km/h)
Range 3,100 nm (5,741 km) 2,010 nm (3,723 km)
Service Ceiling 45,000 ft (13,716 m) 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Max Gross Weight 38,850 lbs (17,622 kg) 18,387 lbs (8,340 kg)
Useful Load 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) 4,800 lbs (2,177 kg)
Fuel Capacity 1,430.0 gal (5413 L) 527.0 gal (1995 L)
Fuel Burn 260.0 GPH (984 L/h) 155.0 GPH (587 L/h)
TBO 5,000 hrs 5,000 hrs
Overhaul Cost $700,000 $400,000
Annual Fixed $500,000 $350,000
Hourly Variable $3,500 $2,200
Engines 2 x Turbofan 2 x Turbofan

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Bombardier Challenger 300

Fuel$1,430/hr
Variable$3,500/hr
Annual Fixed$500,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $1,200,000/yr

Embraer Phenom 300

Fuel$852/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $790,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Bombardier Challenger 300 or Embraer Phenom 300?

Bottom line: Choose the Phenom 300 for class-leading light-jet economics and single-pilot ease. Step up to the Challenger 300 when you need super-mid cabin and ~3,200 nm range — at much higher acquisition and operating cost.

Pick the Challenger 300 if…

  • Budget matters — from $4,150,000 vs $7,495,000, you save ~$3,345,000.
  • Faster cruise — 450 kts vs 430 kts.
  • Longer range — 3100 nm vs 2010 nm.

Pick the Phenom 300 if…

  • Lower operating cost — ~$2200/hr vs $3500/hr.
  • Newer design — production from 2009 vs 2004.
  • More inventory — 76 listings vs 48.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Bombardier Challenger 300 or Embraer Phenom 300?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Challenger 300 cruises at 450 kts with 3,100 nm range. The Phenom 300 cruises at 430 kts with 2,010 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Bombardier Challenger 300 and Embraer Phenom 300?
Challenger 300 engine: Honeywell HTF7000. Cruise: 450 vs 430 kts. Range: 3100 vs 2010 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Challenger 300: about $3500/hr variable cost. Phenom 300: about $2200/hr variable cost. Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Challenger 300: 10 seats / 9,500 lb useful load. Phenom 300: 10 seats / 4,800 lb useful load. Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Challenger 300: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$700,000. Phenom 300: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000. Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data