Embraer Phenom 300 vs Bombardier Challenger 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 | Embraer Phenom 300 | Bombardier Challenger 300 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $7,495,000 – $14,750,000 | $4,150,000 – $14,295,000 |
| Category | Jets | Jets |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 430 kts (796 km/h) | 450 kts (833 km/h) |
| Range | 2,010 nm (3,723 km) | 3,100 nm (5,741 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 18,387 lbs (8,340 kg) | 38,850 lbs (17,622 kg) |
| Useful Load | 4,800 lbs (2,177 kg) | 9,500 lbs (4,309 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 527.0 gal (1995 L) | 1,430.0 gal (5413 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 155.0 GPH (587 L/h) | 260.0 GPH (984 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $700,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $500,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,200 | $3,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateEmbraer Phenom 300
Fuel$852/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$790,000/yr
Bombardier Challenger 300
Fuel$1,430/hr
Variable$3,500/hr
Annual Fixed$500,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$1,200,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Embraer Phenom 300 or Bombardier Challenger 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 Phenom 300 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$2200/hr vs $3500/hr.
- Newer design — production from 2009 vs 2004.
- More inventory — 76 listings vs 39.
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.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Embraer Phenom 300 or Bombardier Challenger 300?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Phenom 300 cruises at 430 kts with 2,010 nm range.
The Challenger 300 cruises at 450 kts with 3,100 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 Embraer Phenom 300 and Bombardier Challenger 300?
Challenger 300 engine: Honeywell HTF7000.
Cruise: 430 vs 450 kts.
Range: 2010 vs 3100 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Phenom 300: about $2200/hr variable cost.
Challenger 300: about $3500/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?
Phenom 300: 10 seats / 4,800 lb useful load.
Challenger 300: 10 seats / 9,500 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?
Phenom 300: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
Challenger 300: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$700,000.
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