Learjet 45 vs Embraer Phenom 300
The Embraer Phenom 300 and Learjet 45 are direct light-jet competitors — the Phenom is the modern segment-leading volume choice; the Learjet 45 is the older swept-wing Learjet light jet.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 45 | Embraer Phenom 300 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 | $7,495,000 – $14,750,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 430 kts (796 km/h) |
| Range | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) | 2,010 nm (3,723 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) | 18,387 lbs (8,340 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) | 4,800 lbs (2,177 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 575.0 gal (2176 L) | 527.0 gal (1995 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) | 155.0 GPH (587 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,500 | $2,200 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 45
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,500/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$850,000/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: Learjet 45 or Embraer Phenom 300?
Bottom line: Choose the Phenom 300 — class-leading performance, the largest cabin in its class, single-pilot ease and dispatch reliability. Choose the Learjet 45 only for materially lower acquisition cost — accepting that the Phenom is the segment leader.
Pick the 45 if…
- Budget matters — from $1,495,000 vs $7,495,000, you save ~$6,000,000.
- Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 430 kts.
- Longer range — 2120 nm vs 2010 nm.
Pick the Phenom 300 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$2200/hr vs $2500/hr.
- More seats — 10 vs 9.
- Newer design — production from 2009 vs 1997.
- More inventory — 82 listings vs 70.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Learjet 45 or Embraer Phenom 300?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 45 cruises at 438 kts with 2,120 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 Learjet 45 and Embraer Phenom 300?
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
Seats: 9 vs 10.
Cruise: 438 vs 430 kts.
Range: 2120 vs 2010 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
45: about $2500/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?
45: 9 seats / 5,200 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?
45: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
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