Embraer has delivered the 500th Phenom 300-series aircraft, making it the most successful business jet of the decade, according to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA).
New owner, Freeman Pickett III, took delivery of the aircraft at Embraer’s impressive Melbourne, Florida Customer Center. A previous Phenom 100 user, Pickett moved up to the larger machine as he found his flying and passenger loads increasing.
The 500th Phenom is to the latest Phenom 300E standard, ‘E’ for ‘Enhanced’ referencing the incorporation of Embraer DNA Design, introduced on the Legacy 450 and Legacy 500 medium-cabin jets.
Embraer says the concept enables a more spacious cabin, an expanded range of personalisation options and easier maintainability. It also brings the exclusive Upper Tech Panel to the Phenom 300 for the first time.
Installed along the ceiling centreline, compared to its valence position in the Legacy 450 and 500, the Upper Tech Panel activates at the approach of a passenger’s hand, providing access to lighting and CMS/IFE controls, as well as trip information.
The Phenom 300E’s 3,360lb (14.94kN) thrust Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535E engines provide a high-speed cruise of 453kt and a range of 1,971nm (3,650km) with NBAA IFR reserves and six occupants. The aircraft is capable of flight at 45,000ft, but retains a best-in-class maximum cabin altitude of 6,600ft.