Cessna Citation CJ3 vs Embraer Phenom 300
The Cessna Citation CJ3 and Embraer Phenom 300 are both single-pilot-capable light jets, the workhorses of the segment. The Williams FJ44-powered CJ3 is a proven, easy-to-fly Citation with a roomy cabin, while the Phenom 300 is the best-selling light jet, offering more speed, longer range, and a stand-up oval cabin.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation CJ3 | Embraer Phenom 300 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $4,750,000 – $5,595,000 | $7,495,000 – $14,750,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 391 kts (724 km/h) | 430 kts (796 km/h) |
| Range | 1,875 nm (3,472 km) | 2,010 nm (3,723 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 13,870 lbs (6,291 kg) | 18,387 lbs (8,340 kg) |
| Useful Load | 3,230 lbs (1,465 kg) | 4,800 lbs (2,177 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 438.0 gal (1658 L) | 527.0 gal (1995 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) | 155.0 GPH (587 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $275,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $335,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $1,850 | $2,200 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation CJ3
Fuel$688/hr
Variable$1,850/hr
Annual Fixed$335,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$705,000/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: Cessna Citation CJ3 or Embraer Phenom 300?
Bottom line: Choose the CJ3 for simple single-pilot flying, low operating costs, and the deep Citation support network; pick the Phenom 300 for greater speed, longer range, and a larger cabin. Range, cabin comfort, and operating economics typically decide.
Pick the Citation CJ3 if…
- Budget matters — from $4,750,000 vs $7,495,000, you save ~$2,745,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$1850/hr vs $2200/hr.
Pick the Phenom 300 if…
- More seats — 10 vs 9.
- Faster cruise — 430 kts vs 391 kts.
- Longer range — 2010 nm vs 1875 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2009 vs 2004.
- More inventory — 86 listings vs 73.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna Citation CJ3 or Embraer Phenom 300?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation CJ3 cruises at 391 kts with 1,875 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?
Cessna Citation CJ3: from $4,750,000.
Embraer Phenom 300: from $7,495,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation CJ3 and Embraer Phenom 300?
Seats: 9 vs 10.
Cruise: 391 vs 430 kts.
Range: 1875 vs 2010 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation CJ3: about $1850/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?
Citation CJ3: 9 seats / 3,230 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?
Citation CJ3: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$275,000.
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