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Phenom 300 vs Citation CJ4 vs Pilatus PC-24
Phenom 300 vs Citation CJ4 vs Pilatus PC-24 (2026): which is best?
The table compares the Phenom 300E, Citation CJ4 Gen2 and PC-24, not every generation carrying those model names. All three have single-pilot certification, subject to the pilot and operation meeting the applicable requirements. Speed, range and passenger layouts use different published conditions; price evidence also has its own source year. No single column establishes the best aircraft for a mission.
| Specification | Phenom 300E | Citation CJ4 Gen2 | Pilatus PC-24 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Range | ~2,010 nm | ~2,165 nm | ~2,000 nm |
| Max cruise speed | ~464 kt | ~451 kt | ~440 kt |
| Passenger-layout examples, not maximum certified capacity | 7–9 | 7–9 | 8–10 |
| Runway flexibility | Paved | Paved | Short / unpaved capable |
| Comparison note | Manufacturer reports best-selling light-jet series for more than a decade | Longest listed range in this comparison | Flat floor, large cargo door |
| Engines | 2 × P&W PW535E1 | 2 × Williams FJ44-4A | 2 × Williams FJ44-4A QPM |
| Single-pilot certified | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Historical published price reference, not a current quote | $12.495 million; 2024 comparison | $12.200 million; 2025 MSRP | $13.510 million; 2024 comparison |
Source: Passion Asset Advisory compilation of Embraer's Phenom 300E brochure, Pilatus's PC-24 specifications and Textron's 2024 Fact Book. The latter lists CJ4 Gen2 specifications and 2025 MSRP; its competing-aircraft 2024 prices cite B&CA, not Embraer or Pilatus quotes. This guide's original date is September 11, 2026.
Which light jet is fastest, and which flies furthest?
The published cruise figures are about 464 knots for the Phenom 300E, 451 for the CJ4 Gen2 and 440 for the PC-24. Listed range is about 2,165 nautical miles for the CJ4, 2,010 for the Phenom and 2,000 for the PC-24. These are not matched-payload flight tests. Embraer's range uses five occupants; Pilatus's figure uses six passengers. Actual trip time and fuel stops need route-specific calculations.
Why is the Pilatus PC-24 different from the other two?
The PC-24 combines a flat-floor cabin and large cargo door with paved and approved unpaved-runway capability, including grass, gravel and dirt. Pilatus uses the name Super Versatile Jet. That capability is not permission to use any short or rough airfield: runway condition, aircraft weight, weather, aircraft documentation and operator approval must be checked. Compare the actual layout and destination requirements, not the label alone.
Which light jet should you buy?
Shortlist the Phenom 300E for its published speed, the CJ4 Gen2 for its listed range, and the PC-24 for cabin and runway requirements. Then compare the actual aircraft's payload, equipment, maintenance exposure, support and operating budget. None is a safe default on purchase price or resale value alone. Use the same mission brief and independent technical assessment for each candidate.
FAQ
Light jets: quick answers
Is the Phenom 300 the best light jet?
Passion Asset Advisory compares mission fit rather than naming a universal winner. Embraer reports more than a decade of light-jet sales leadership for the Phenom 300 series, but sales volume is not proof of the right aircraft or future resale value. Compare speed, payload, runway needs, support and aircraft-specific costs.
Which is faster, the Phenom 300 or the Citation CJ4?
The listed cruise speed is about 464 knots for the Phenom 300E and 451 for the CJ4 Gen2. Their published ranges are around 2,010 and 2,165 nautical miles respectively. Speed and range use different operating conditions; the operator must calculate actual trip time and fuel stops for the route and payload.
Can the Pilatus PC-24 land on unpaved runways?
The PC-24 has approved unpaved-runway capability, including grass, gravel and dirt. The operator still needs to assess the specific surface, length, condition, weather and loading against the applicable aircraft limits. Its flat-floor cabin and cargo door add flexibility, but no general airfield-access guarantee follows.
How much do the Phenom 300, Citation CJ4, and PC-24 cost?
The dated references are $12.495 million for the Phenom 300E and $13.510 million for the PC-24 in the 2024 comparison, and $12.200 million as 2025 CJ4 Gen2 MSRP. They are not current quotes or verified resale results. Obtain an aircraft-specific price, records review and operating budget; the purchase-cost guide explains the source distinctions.
How Passion Asset Advisory compares light-jet evidence
Manufacturer specifications are credited to the sources beneath the table. Historical prices keep their original year and basis, and passenger examples are not maximum certified capacities. The comparison does not turn brochure figures into mission guarantees or quoted prices. See our editorial standards. See also how much a private jet costs and the private jet cost calculator.
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Read the aircraft references alongside the buying and ownership-cost guides. A qualified operator and independent technical team must assess the actual candidate.