When building our fleet at LIVT, we faced a crucial decision that many regional aviation companies encounter: Should we go with the proven Swiss engineering of the Pilatus PC-12 NG/NGX or the sleek twin-jet appeal of the Embraer Phenom 100EX? Both aircraft serve the entry-level business aviation market, but they approach regional travel with fundamentally different philosophies.
After extensive analysis of real-world operations, cost factors, and passenger needs, we chose the PC-12 NG/NGX as our primary aircraft. Buyers can choose from a range of customizable options, including interior finishes, seating arrangements, and additional features, allowing for a flexible and personalized travel experience. Here’s why—and what it means for your travel experience.
The world of very light jets is more dynamic than ever, with a growing array of aircraft designed to meet the evolving needs of business and private aviation. As buyers and operators explore their options, they encounter a market filled with advanced features, innovative designs, and a range of performance capabilities. Among the standout choices is the Embraer Phenom 100E—a very light jet that has earned its reputation for blending luxury, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology.
Equipped with an advanced cockpit environment powered by Garmin avionics, the Phenom 100E offers pilots and passengers a seamless flying experience. Its spacious cabin is designed for comfort and productivity, making it a popular option for those who value both style and substance in their executive aircraft. With impressive range and performance, the Phenom 100E is engineered to deliver on the promise of private jet travel, whether for business or leisure.
As the very light jet market continues to expand, understanding the features, benefits, and market trends is essential for making informed decisions. In this guide, we’ll explore what sets the Phenom 100E apart, how it compares to other aircraft like the Pilatus PC-12, and what factors buyers should consider when choosing the right jet for their needs.
The Embraer Phenom 100EX represents the traditional “jet appeal” mindset. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW617F1-E engines and equipped with Prodigy Touch avionics, the Phenom 100EX delivers unparalleled performance and efficiency. It looks every bit the part of a business jet, with twin engines and the prestige that comes with jet travel.
The Pilatus PC-12 NG/NGX, on the other hand, embodies Swiss practicality married to luxury. It’s a single-engine turboprop that prioritizes capability, versatility, and real-world utility over pure speed or jet-status appeal.
Speed and Range
Phenom 100EX: Maximum range of 1,178 nautical miles with cruise speeds around 405 knots (750 km/h)
PC-12 NG/NGX: Range up to 1,803 nautical miles with cruise speeds of 290 knots (537 km/h)
The PC-12’s climb rate is a standout, efficiently ascending from sea level to cruising altitude. It can climb to FL 220 from sea level in under 20 minutes, demonstrating strong climb performance in various operational scenarios.
While the Phenom is faster, the PC-12’s superior range means fewer fuel stops on longer trips. For regional travel within 800 nautical miles—which represents 75% of all private flights in the US—both aircraft excel, but the PC-12’s efficiency advantage becomes clear on longer journeys.
Runway Performance: The Game Changer Here’s where the PC-12 NG/NGX truly shines. The Phenom 100EX has a landing distance of just 2,430 feet, which is impressive for a jet. But the PC-12 can operate from even shorter runways, with a takeoff distance as short as 2,485 feet, and—critically—offers excellent takeoff performance from unpaved surfaces including grass, gravel, and snow.
This isn’t just a technical specification; it’s freedom. While the Phenom can access roughly 5,000 airports in North America, the PC-12 can reach thousands more, including private strips, ranch airports, and remote destinations that jets simply cannot serve.
A side view of the Phenom 300 EX
The Numbers Don’t Lie: A Tale of Two Cabins
Here’s where the rubber meets the runway—and where the PC-12 PRO’s Swiss engineering philosophy truly shines. The PC-12 offers the largest cabin in its class, setting a new standard for space and comfort among single-engine turboprops. Let’s look at the actual dimensions:
Phenom 100EX Cabin:
Volume: 282 cubic feet
Length: 11 feet
Width: 4.9 feet
Height: 4.9 feet
Typical Configuration: 4-5 passengers maximum
Baggage: 54.9 cubic feet (unpressurized external compartment)
PC-12 NG/NGX Cabin:
Volume: Over 330 cubic feet
Length: 16 feet 11 inches
Width: 5 feet
Height: 4 feet 10 inches
Flexible Configuration: Accommodates up to nine passengers
Cargo Door: Massive 53” x 59” opening with internal cargo area
What This Really Means for Your Travel
The PC-12’s cabin is nearly 6 feet longer than the Phenom’s—that’s the difference between feeling cramped and having room to actually work, relax, or move around during flight. But the real game-changer isn’t just the extra space; it’s how that space can be used. Within its class, the PC-12 stands out for superior space and flexibility, offering unmatched versatility for a variety of missions.
Real-World Flexibility Scenarios:
The Business Trip: Need to transport presentation materials, trade show displays, or equipment to a client meeting? The Phenom’s external baggage compartment might handle your laptop bag, but the PC-12’s massive cargo door and internal space can accommodate everything from golf clubs to industrial samples. Your luggage travels with you in the pressurized cabin, eliminating baggage claim delays and the risk of lost items.
The Family Vacation: Planning a ski trip with four family members? In the Phenom, you’re maxed out on passengers and wondering where the ski equipment goes. The PC-12 comfortably seats your family plus grandparents, with room for all the gear, and can land at mountain airports the Phenom simply cannot access.
The Executive Retreat: Hosting a team meeting while airborne? The PC-12’s length allows for a proper conference setup with facing seats and a workspace. The Phenom’s 11-foot cabin feels more like a luxury car than a mobile office.
Modular Configurations: Swiss Engineering at Work
This is where the PC-12’s true flexibility becomes apparent. While the Phenom 100EX is essentially locked into its 4-5 passenger configuration, the PC-12 transforms to meet your mission:
Executive Layout: 6-8 passengers in club seating with tables for meetings
Family Configuration: Up to nine passengers with extra space for children to move safely
Cargo-Passenger Combo: Remove seats as needed to accommodate oversized items
VIP Setup: Fewer seats with maximum luxury and space per passenger
Cabin Amenities: Options include a refreshment centre for added comfort and convenience
The “Bring Everything” Advantage
Here’s a real-world comparison that highlights the difference: You’re flying to a week-long business conference with your team, followed by a weekend golf outing.
With the Phenom 100EX: You can take 4 people maximum, everyone packs light, golf clubs might fit in the external baggage compartment (weather permitting), and you’re hoping nothing gets lost or damaged in the unpressurized cargo area.
With the PC-12 NG/NGX: Your entire 6-person team travels together, everyone brings a full-size suitcase, all golf equipment travels in the pressurized cabin, plus you can carry presentation materials, product samples, or anything else your business requires. And when you land at that exclusive golf resort with the 3,000-foot runway? The PC-12 gets you there while the Phenom flies to the nearest commercial airport 45 minutes away.
The Swiss Advantage: Built-in Flexibility
The partnership with BMW Designworks USA resulted in beautiful interiors for both aircraft, but only the PC-12 was designed from the ground up for mission flexibility. The Phenom prioritizes the sleek aesthetics of jet travel—and there’s nothing wrong with that if your missions are consistent and simple. But if your travel needs vary, if you occasionally need to bring more people or more stuff, or if you value the ability to adapt your aircraft to different missions, the PC-12’s cabin flexibility becomes invaluable.
As one pilot noted, “the cabin is as roomy as some midsize business jets”—but unlike those jets, it can land virtually anywhere and adapt to whatever your mission requires. Providing flexibility for almost any mission, just in case you need it.
A side view of the Pilatus PC-12 Passenger cabin in the 6 place executive configuration
Acquisition Costs The Phenom 100EX maintains its $4.995M price, while the PC-12 NG/NGX typically costs the same or more upfront in the used aircraft market. For comparison, the list price of a new jet like the Phenom 100EX is generally lower than the PC-12, but the total cost of ownership tells a different story.
Operating Costs The PC-12’s single-engine configuration provides significant advantages:
Lower maintenance costs (one engine vs. two)
Reduced insurance premiums
Better fuel efficiency on typical regional missions
Simplified training requirements for pilots
To date, over 2,000 PC-12 aircraft have been delivered worldwide, demonstrating its popularity, reliability, and strong market penetration.
Value Retention The PC-12 has a proven track record of exceptional value retention, with 10-year-old aircraft maintaining close to 80% of their original value—unmatched in the aviation industry. The PC-12 is also known for being easy to sell on the secondary market, thanks to consistently high demand and strong resale value.
The “twin-engine safety” argument often favors jets like the Phenom, and it’s true that having two engines provides redundancy. However, modern turboprops like the PC-12 have achieved remarkable safety records through:
Proven PT6A engine reliability (over 400 million flight hours)
Advanced weather radar and known-ice certification
Sophisticated flight management systems
Easier single-engine handling characteristics
Long design life and extended service intervals, contributing to overall durability and lower maintenance demands
Both aircraft meet the highest safety standards, but they achieve it through different engineering approaches.
Environmental Responsibility
In today’s climate-conscious world, the PC-12 PRO leads with CO2 emissions as low as 125 g/km per passenger—a figure that no other pressurized business aircraft can match. For companies prioritizing sustainability, this represents a significant advantage over twin-jet alternatives.
The light jet market is in a state of constant evolution, driven by technological advancements and changing customer expectations. Aircraft like the Pilatus PC-12 have set new standards for versatility and reliability, amassing over 7 million flight hours and earning a reputation as a go-to executive aircraft for operators worldwide. Its ability to perform in diverse environments, from remote airstrips to major airports, has made it a favorite among those who value flexibility and utility.
On the other hand, very light jets such as the Embraer Phenom 100E are redefining what passengers can expect from private aviation. With features like multifunction spoilers, a state-of-the-art Garmin avionics suite, and a refined cabin that can accommodate up to 7 passengers, the Phenom 100E delivers a premium flying experience. Its cruise speed of 405 knots and range of 1,135 miles make it ideal for high-speed regional flights, whether you’re traveling from London to Rome or connecting business hubs across the continent.
As new models enter the market, operators and buyers must weigh factors such as operating costs, range, cabin comfort, and overall performance. The Phenom 100E stands out for its economical operation and advanced features, making it a strong contender for those seeking a balance of luxury and efficiency. Meanwhile, the Pilatus PC-12 continues to impress with its ability to perform in challenging conditions and its proven track record for reliability.
Ultimately, the shifting landscape of the light jet market means that buyers have more choices than ever before. Whether prioritizing speed, comfort, or operational flexibility, today’s executive aircraft are designed to meet a wide range of needs—ensuring that every flight is tailored to the demands of modern business and personal travel.
Our decision ultimately came down to matching aircraft capabilities with real member needs:
Access: Our members want to reach destinations, not just airports. The PC-12’s ability to land on short, unpaved runways opens up thousands more possibilities.
Versatility: Whether transporting a family of six with luggage or a business team with equipment, the PC-12 adapts to real-world missions.
Economics: Lower operating costs translate directly to better value for our members—up to 30% savings compared to traditional charter operations.
Reliability: The PC-12’s proven track record and simplified systems mean more time flying and less time dealing with maintenance delays.
Environmental Stewardship: Our members increasingly value sustainable travel options that don’t compromise on luxury or capability.
The PC-12 is trusted by a global base of customers, including commercial operators, government agencies, and private owners, who consistently praise its reliability, efficiency, and versatility. Thanks to the PC-12’s performance and adaptability, a wide range of missions and operational scenarios can happen, from remote medical evacuations to executive transport and cargo delivery.
Ready to discover why the PC-12 NG/NGX is the perfect aircraft for regional travel? Our regional membership model combines the PC-12’s unmatched versatility with our cost-effective approach to private aviation.
Contact LIVT today to learn how our PC-12 NG/NGX fleet can transform your regional travel experience while keeping you connected to destinations that other aircraft simply can’t reach.
Want to learn more about the technical specifications and capabilities of our PC-12 NG/NGX fleet? Visit our aircraft specifications page or speak with one of our aviation experts about your specific travel needs.
Ready to discover why the PC-12 NG/NGX is the perfect aircraft for regional travel? Our regional membership model combines the PC-12’s unmatched versatility with our cost-effective approach to private aviation.
Contact LIVT today to learn how our PC-12 NG/NGX fleet can transform your regional travel experience while keeping you connected to destinations that other aircraft simply can’t reach.
Want to learn more about the technical specifications and capabilities of our PC-12 NG/NGX fleet? Visit our aircraft specifications page or speak with one of our aviation experts about your specific travel needs.
1. https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en/pc-12
2. www.aviation-safety.net/wikibase/type/PC12
3.https://embraer.com/phenom100ex
4. www.ntsb.gov
5. registry.faa.gov
7.www.flightglobal.com/flight-international
8. www.pwc.ca/en/products-and-services/pwc-pt6a
Yes, the Pilatus PC-12 is widely recognized as one of the safest aircraft in its class. It is powered by the highly reliable Pratt & Whitney PT6A engine and is certified for single-pilot operations under rigorous FAA and international standards. Its exceptional safety record has made it a top choice for medevac missions, corporate travel, and government operations worldwide. The aircraft’s robust design, advanced avionics, and strong track record of operational reliability contribute to its reputation for safety. To learn more about the PC-12’s safety statistics, crash data, and how it compares to other aircraft, click here to read our full safety article on the Pilatus PC-12.
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