Cessna Citation Cj4 vs Embraer Phenom 300e vs Embraer Praetor 500
The Cessna Citation CJ4 and Embraer Phenom 300E are typically grouped in the light-jet category, while the Embraer Praetor 500 sits in the midsize/super-midsize class with a larger cabin and longer legs. In range, the CJ4 and Phenom 300E are broadly similar and generally suited to short-to-medium missions, commonly around the 2,000 nautical mile class depending on load and conditions. The Praetor 500 steps up notably, offering roughly the 3,000 nautical mile class range, enabling more nonstop city pairs and greater margin for reserves and headwinds. For passenger capacity, the CJ4 and Phenom 300E are commonly configured for about 7 to 9 passengers, with real-world comfort often best in the 6 to 8 range depending on baggage and desired amenities. The Praetor 500 typically carries about 8 to 9 passengers in standard layouts, but with more cabin volume and comfort for those seats, especially on longer flights.
| Spec | Cessna Citation CJ4 | Embraer Phenom 300E | Embraer Praetor 500 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.37 | $ 3.88 | $ 6.02 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 9 | 10 | 9 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Embraer | Embraer |
| Aircraft Name | CJ4 | Phenom 300E | Praetor 500 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 2170 | 2,010 | 3340 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.62 | $ 0.55 | $ 0.86 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 10 | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 6914 | 6914 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 6 | 7 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,970 | $ 1,758 | $ 2,779 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 | Prodigy Touch (G3000) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 440 | 464 | 466 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $11,290,000 | $9,650,000 | $16,995,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No | No |
| Jump Seat | No | No | No |
| Total Seats | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 9 | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 9 | 9.4 | 9.7 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 24005 | 25560 | 27110 |
| Connectivity | — | — | Gogo AVANCE L5 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | — | 5800 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | FJ44-4A | Canada PW535E1 | HTF7500E |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 5000 | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 11 | ISA + 15 | ISA + 18 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 3621 | 3360 | 6540 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | 757 | 757 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 870 | — | — |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 53.4 | 51.2 | 64.6 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 50 | 52.16 | 70.5 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.4 | 0.3 | Flat Floor |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4.8 | 5.1 | 6.9 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.8 | 4.9 | 6 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 17.2 | 17.2 | 20.6 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.5 | 16.75 | 21.1 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.1 | 3.6 | 4.7 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 14.8 | 14.8 | 17.4 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 70 | 74 | 110 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 7 | 10 | 40 |