Journal · Private Jets
Phenom 300 vs Citation CJ4 vs Pilatus PC-24
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Phenom 300 vs Citation CJ4 vs Pilatus PC-24 (2026): which is best?
Each leads on a different axis: the Phenom 300E on speed and sales, the Citation CJ4 on range, and the Pilatus PC-24 on cabin size and runway access. They are close on price and all single-pilot certified, so the right answer depends on your typical route, airfields, and payload. The table sets the headline numbers side by side.
| Specification | Phenom 300E | Citation CJ4 | Pilatus PC-24 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Range | ~2,010 nm | ~2,165 nm | ~2,000 nm |
| Max cruise speed | ~464 kt | ~451 kt | ~440 kt |
| Typical passengers | 7–9 | 7–9 | 8–10 |
| Runway flexibility | Paved | Paved | Short / unpaved capable |
| Cabin note | Best-selling light jet | Longest range; simple | Flat floor, large cargo door |
| Engines | 2 × P&W PW535E | 2 × Williams FJ44-4A | 2 × Williams FJ44-4A |
| Single-pilot certified | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| New price (indicative) | ~$11M | ~$11M | ~$11.5M |
Indicative figures for 2026; manufacturers quote range and speed under specific conditions, and price varies by specification and market. Verify current data before citing onward.
Which light jet is fastest, and which flies furthest?
The Phenom 300E is the fastest and cruises at up to about 464 knots. The Citation CJ4 follows near 451 knots, and the PC-24 reaches around 440 knots. The order changes for range. The CJ4 leads at roughly 2,165 nautical miles, the Phenom reaches near 2,010 and the PC-24 about 2,000. For most owners, these gaps equal a few minutes or one fuel stop on the longest legs.
Why is the Pilatus PC-24 different from the other two?
The PC-24 is built for versatility rather than pure speed. It has a flat-floor cabin, a large cargo door and certification for short and unpaved runways, including grass, gravel and dirt. This gives it access to thousands of airfields that the Phenom and CJ4 cannot use. Pilatus calls it a Super Versatile Jet. It trades slightly lower speed and range for greater access and a larger, more flexible cabin.
Which light jet should you buy?
Choose the Phenom 300E for a balanced mix of speed, comfort, running cost and resale. It is the safe default. Choose the Citation CJ4 if you regularly fly the longest light-jet routes and value simplicity. Choose the PC-24 if your destinations include short or unpaved runways, or if you need to carry bulky cargo. Through a sourcing mandate, we match the jet to your actual route map before we recommend one.
FAQ
Light jets: quick answers
Is the Phenom 300 the best light jet?
The Embraer Phenom 300 has been the world's best-selling light jet for over a decade, which makes it the safe default. It is the fastest of the group, comfortable and economical to run, with a large support network. The best choice still depends on the mission. The Citation CJ4 flies farther, while the Pilatus PC-24 carries more and uses shorter, rougher runways.
Which is faster, the Phenom 300 or the Citation CJ4?
The Phenom 300E is faster, with a top cruise of about 464 knots against roughly 451 knots for the Citation CJ4. The difference is only a few minutes on a typical trip. The CJ4 has a slightly longer range, around 2,165 nautical miles versus about 2,010 for the Phenom. The two jets trade speed against reach.
Can the Pilatus PC-24 land on unpaved runways?
Yes. This is its main advantage. The Pilatus PC-24 is certified for short and unpaved surfaces, including grass, gravel and dirt. It can use thousands of airfields that are closed to conventional light jets. Its flat-floor cabin and large cargo door support the Super Versatile Jet label. It trades a little speed for access and flexibility.
How much do the Phenom 300, Citation CJ4, and PC-24 cost?
New, all three sit close together at roughly $10–12 million, with the Pilatus PC-24 typically the priciest and the Phenom 300E and Citation CJ4 around $11 million. Well-kept pre-owned examples trade lower, often around $8–10 million depending on year and hours. Operating cost, support, and runway needs usually decide the purchase more than the small list-price gaps.
Sources & further reading: Embraer, Cessna (Textron Aviation), and Pilatus published specifications; independent light-jet comparison data (AvBuyer, Corporate Jet Investor). Figures are indicative and verified against primary sources where cited; see our editorial standards. See also how much a private jet costs and the private jet cost calculator.
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