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Cessna Citation Cj3 vs Embraer Phenom 100ev vs Embraer Phenom 300e vs Pilatus Pc 24

The Cessna Citation CJ3+ and Embraer Phenom 300E are typically grouped in the light-jet class, with the Phenom 300E often viewed as the higher-performing “top end” of that category. The Embraer Phenom 100EV sits in the very light jet (entry-level) category, optimized for shorter trips and lower operating costs. The Pilatus PC-24 is generally considered a light jet as well, but it is positioned as a “super versatile” light jet thanks to its larger cabin and utility-oriented design. In range terms, the Phenom 100EV is usually the shortest-legged of the four, suited to regional missions. The CJ3+ and Phenom 300E step up to longer nonstop capability typical of light jets, with the 300E generally offering the strongest combination of speed and range. The PC-24 is also in the longer-range light-jet mix, often competitive with or exceeding CJ3+ class missions depending on configuration. Passenger capacity follows a similar pattern: Phenom 100EV typically seats about 4–6, CJ3+ and Phenom 300E commonly carry around 6–9, and the PC-24 often accommodates about 6–10 with the most cabin flexibility.

SpecCessna Citation CJ3+Embraer Phenom 100EVEmbraer Phenom 300EPilatus PC-24
Summary
Cockpit2222
DOC / nm$ 4.05$ 2.84$ 3.88$ 3.71
Min Crew1111
Total Seats97106
ManufacturerCessna CitationEmbraerEmbraerPilatus
Aircraft NameCJ3+Phenom 100EVPhenom 300EPC-24
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASAFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)18981,1782,0102076
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.58$ 0.71$ 0.55$ 0.62
Max Cabin Seats871010
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIEDVERIFIEDVERIFIED
Useful Load (lbs)5530345169146680
Standard Cabin Seats7566
Direct Operating Cost$ 1,680$ 1,152$ 1,758$ 1,619
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G3000Prodigy Touch (G3000)Prodigy Touch (G3000)Pilatus ACE (Primus Apex)
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)415406464440
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$9,915,000$4,250,000$9,650,000$11,800,000
Cabin
Cockpit2222
Lavatory1 Enclosed Belted Flushing1 Flushing1 Enclosed Flushing1 Enclosed Flushing
Min Crew1111
Crew RestNoNoNoNo
Jump SeatNoNoNoNo
Total Seats9696
Galley LocationFWDFWDFWD
Max Cabin Seats86910
Lavatory LocationAFTAFTAFTFWD
Cabin Pressure (psi)8.98.39.49.3
Galley / RefreshmentGalleyNoGalleyOptional Refreshment Center
Standard Cabin Seats7476
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)23586212802556023500
Cargo DoorYes
Engine
FADECYesYesYesYes
ModelFJ44-3APW617F1-ECanada PW535E1FJ44-4A-QPM
TBO (hrs)5000350050005000
Flat RatingISA + 11ISA + 8ISA + 15ISA + 23
Thrust (lbs)2820173033603435
No. of Engines2222
Fuel Burn (lbph)624543757
Fuel Capacity (gal)703
Dimensions
Length (ft)51.242.151.252.2
Wingspan (ft)5340.452.1655.8
Aisle Step (ft)0.40.30.3Flat Floor
Cabin Width (ft)4.85.15.15.6
Cabin Height (ft)4.84.94.95.1
Cabin Length (ft)15.71117.223
Overall Height (ft)15.214.316.7517.4
Cabin Width - Floor (ft)3.13.63.63.8
Cabin Length - Seating (ft)12.2914.817
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)656074
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)101090