Embraer Phenom 100 | Article
Kevin O’Leary Working Toward PhD
September 20, 2022
Safer Takeoffs for Private Jet Owners
September 20, 2022Embraer Phenom 100: Innovation in the Very Light Jet Market
Since its founding in 1969, Embraer has built a reputation as a premier manufacturer of commercial airliners and long-range business jets. In May 2005, the company surprised the aviation world by announcing its entry into the very light jet (VLJ) segment with the launch of the Phenom 100 and Phenom 300. The Phenom 100, Embraer’s VLJ contender, made its maiden flight in July 2007 and entered service in 2008.
Phenom 100 Performance and Pricing
The Embraer Phenom 100 is priced at approximately $3 million and competes directly with the Citation Mustang ($2.52 million) and the Eclipse 500 ($1.52 million). While all three jets are powered by engines from Pratt & Whitney Canada’s PW600 series, the Phenom 100 leads the pack in thrust. It features two PW617F engines, each delivering 1,615 lbs of thrust and incorporating a large 17.6-inch fan diameter. These engines offer a 3,500-hour inspection interval, ensuring low maintenance frequency.
Spacious Cabin Design by BMW
One of the Phenom 100’s greatest strengths is its spacious cabin. With a total internal volume of 282 cubic feet, it significantly surpasses the Mustang’s 230 and the Eclipse’s 160. Embraer partnered with BMW DesignworksUSA to craft an open, modern interior. The design features a four-passenger club seating arrangement, a refreshment center, and an enclosed lavatory. The use of subtle color schemes and ambient lighting creates an airy and relaxing atmosphere. The Phenom 100 provides 55 cubic feet of baggage capacity, more than triple that of the Eclipse 500.
Speed and Range Superiority
In terms of range and cruise speed, the Phenom 100 leads its VLJ class. With a range of 1,060 nautical miles (NBAA IFR with four passengers and 200 nm alternate), it outperforms both the Citation Mustang (1,007 nm) and the Eclipse 500 (833 nm). Its high-speed cruise of 380 knots also exceeds the Mustang’s 339 ktas and the Eclipse’s 370 ktas.
Advanced Avionics and Safety
Embraer designed the Prodigy Flight Deck, based on the Garmin G1000 avionics suite, to rival systems found in larger business jets. The Phenom 100 is also the first VLJ to introduce a brake-by-wire system with anti-skid functionality, a feature typically reserved for larger aircraft like the Falcon 7X.
Built for Longevity and Reliability
The Phenom 100 is engineered for durability, with a design life of 35,000 cycles—approximately 75% more than the industry average. Embraer will subject the aircraft to testing equivalent to 30,000 flight hours, far surpassing the typical 20,000-hour benchmark. This commitment to quality underscores Embraer’s drive for innovation and excellence.
Why the Embraer Phenom 100 Stands Out
The Embraer Phenom 100 is more than just a VLJ—it’s a benchmark for performance, cabin comfort, and structural reliability. With best-in-class specs, advanced avionics, and a luxurious cabin designed by BMW, the Phenom 100 outshines its competitors in nearly every category. Embraer’s legacy of engineering excellence continues with this standout aircraft.
Check out our page dedicated to Phenom 100. Contact Jet Advisors today for a personalized consultation.
Other sources: NBAA FAA Aircraft Inquiry
