Bombardier Challenger 350 vs Cessna Citation Sovereign vs Embraer Legacy 450
The Bombardier Challenger 3500, Cessna Citation Sovereign+, and Embraer Legacy 450 all sit in the super-midsize business jet category, but they emphasize different missions. The Challenger 3500 is typically positioned as a higher-end super-midsize with a roomy cabin and strong all-around capability; its range is commonly around 3,400 nautical miles and it’s usually configured for about 8 to 10 passengers. The Citation Sovereign+ is also a super-midsize jet, often favored for efficient U.S. transcontinental flying and short-field flexibility; its range is typically about 3,200 nautical miles with seating commonly around 8 to 10 passengers. The Embraer Legacy 450 is a super-midsize as well, with a modern cabin and good performance; its range is generally around 2,900 nautical miles and it’s typically set up for about 7 to 9 passengers. In simple terms, the Challenger 3500 generally leads on range and cabin feel, the Sovereign+ balances range with runway versatility, and the Legacy 450 offers a slightly shorter-range, contemporary super-midsize option with competitive capacity.
| Spec | Cessna Citation Sovereign+ | Embraer Legacy 450 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.02 | $ 6.04 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 11 | 9 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Embraer |
| Aircraft Name | Sovereign + | Legacy 450 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 3138 | 2973 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.67 | $ 0.86 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 12790 | 12908 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 7 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,699 | $ 2,790 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G5000 | Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 458 | 481 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $19,730,000 | $16,995,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No |
| Jump Seat | No | No |
| Total Seats | 11 | 9 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 12 | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 9.3 | 9.7 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 9 | 7 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 25230 | 27110 |
| Connectivity | — | Gogo AVANCE L5 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 6000 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PW306D | HTF7500E |
| TBO (hrs) | 6000 | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 16 | ISA + 18 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 5907 | 6540 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 1700 | 1932 |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | — | 1404 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 63.5 | 64.6 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 72.4 | 66.5 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.7 | Flat Floor |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.5 | 6.9 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 5.7 | 6 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.3 | 20.6 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20.4 | 21.1 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.9 | 4.7 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 17.4 | 17.4 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 100 | 110 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 35 | 40 |