Cessna Citation Cj3 vs Cessna Citation M2 vs Embraer Phenom 300e
The Cessna Citation M2 is an entry-level light jet aimed at short-to-mid regional trips. It typically carries about 4–6 passengers in a compact cabin and offers roughly 1,100–1,300 nautical miles of range depending on conditions and configuration, making it well-suited to quick hops between nearby cities. The Cessna Citation CJ3+ sits a step up as a light jet with more cabin volume and better trip capability. It commonly accommodates around 6–9 passengers and delivers about 1,900–2,100 nautical miles of range, enabling longer nonstop legs and more flexibility with reserves and alternate planning. The Embraer Phenom 300E is generally positioned at the top of this group as a light jet with “super-light” performance. It typically seats about 6–10 passengers and offers around 2,000–2,100 nautical miles of range, often matching or slightly exceeding CJ3+ mission profiles while providing a roomy, refined cabin feel.
| Spec | Cessna Citation CJ3+ | Cessna Citation M2 | Embraer Phenom 300E |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.05 | $ 3.45 | $ 3.88 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 9 | 8 | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Cessna Citation | Embraer |
| Aircraft Name | CJ3+ | M2 | Phenom 300E |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1898 | 1400 | 2,010 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.58 | $ 0.58 | $ 0.55 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 7 | 10 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 5530 | 3810 | 6914 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 6 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,680 | $ 1,395 | $ 1,758 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G3000 | Garmin G3000 | Prodigy Touch (G3000) |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 415 | 404 | 464 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $9,915,000 | $5,150,000 | $9,650,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Flushing |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Crew Rest | No | No | No |
| Jump Seat | No | No | No |
| Total Seats | 9 | 8 | 9 |
| Galley Location | FWD | — | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 7 | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.9 | 8.5 | 9.4 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | No | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 6 | 7 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23586 | 22027 | 25560 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | FJ44-3A | FJ44-1AP-21 | Canada PW535E1 |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 3500 | 5000 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 11 | ISA + 7 | ISA + 15 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 2820 | 1965 | 3360 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | 624 | 516 | 757 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 703 | 492 | — |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 51.2 | 42.6 | 51.2 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 53 | 47.3 | 52.16 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.3 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4.8 | 4.8 | 5.1 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.9 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 15.7 | 11 | 17.2 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.2 | 14 | 16.75 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.1 | 3.1 | 3.6 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 12.2 | 8.8 | 14.8 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 65 | 46 | 74 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | — | — | 10 |