Embraer Phenom 300 vs Cessna Citation CJ4
The Embraer Phenom 300 and Cessna Citation CJ4 are the top single-pilot light jets, frequently cross-shopped. The Phenom 300 is the best-selling light jet, known for speed, range, and a stand-up oval cabin, while the FJ44-powered CJ4 is the largest, fastest CitationJet with strong short-field performance and the deep Cessna support network.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Embraer Phenom 300 | Cessna Citation CJ4 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $7,495,000 – $14,750,000 | $4,500,000 – $12,700,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 430 kts (796 km/h) | 420 kts (778 km/h) |
| Range | 2,010 nm (3,723 km) | 2,165 nm (4,010 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 18,387 lbs (8,340 kg) | 17,110 lbs (7,761 kg) |
| Useful Load | 4,800 lbs (2,177 kg) | 4,700 lbs (2,132 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 527.0 gal (1995 L) | 581.0 gal (2199 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 155.0 GPH (587 L/h) | 165.0 GPH (625 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $325,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $385,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,200 | $2,150 |
| 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
Cessna Citation CJ4
Fuel$908/hr
Variable$2,150/hr
Annual Fixed$385,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$815,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Embraer Phenom 300 or Cessna Citation CJ4?
Bottom line: Choose the Phenom 300 for class-leading sales, cabin comfort, and range; pick the CJ4 for CitationJet simplicity, runway flexibility, and broad support. Cabin size, range, and operating economics typically decide this premier light-jet pairing.
Pick the Phenom 300 if…
- Faster cruise — 430 kts vs 420 kts.
- More inventory — 83 listings vs 34.
Pick the Citation CJ4 if…
- Budget matters — from $4,500,000 vs $7,495,000, you save ~$2,995,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2150/hr vs $2200/hr.
- Longer range — 2165 nm vs 2010 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2010 vs 2009.
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 Cessna Citation CJ4?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Phenom 300 cruises at 430 kts with 2,010 nm range.
The Citation CJ4 cruises at 420 kts with 2,165 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Embraer Phenom 300: from $14,750,000.
Cessna Citation CJ4: from $12,700,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Embraer Phenom 300 and Cessna Citation CJ4?
Cruise: 430 vs 420 kts.
Range: 2010 vs 2165 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Phenom 300: about $2200/hr variable cost.
Citation CJ4: about $2150/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.
Citation CJ4: 10 seats / 4,700 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.
Citation CJ4: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$325,000.
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