2011 – 2020
The Embraer Legacy 500 is a top-notch midsize business jet. It has changed the private aviation world since 2014.
It can fly 3,125 nautical miles and reach speeds of 466 knots, making it very efficient.
This aircraft meets the high standards of business leaders and private jet owners. But what makes the Legacy 500 stand out? Why do experts and users call it a game-changer in midsize jets?
Key Takeaways
- The Legacy 500 boasts a range of 3,125 nautical miles and a maximum cruise speed of 466 knots.
- It can accommodate up to 12 passengers in a spacious cabin with a flat floor, 6-foot stand-up height, and 6-foot 10-inch width.
- Powered by two Honeywell HTF7500E engines, the Legacy 500 offers superior performance and fuel efficiency in its class.
- The aircraft features advanced fly-by-wire technology and a state-of-the-art Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics suite.
- With a list price of $19.5 million for a new model and a pre-owned price range of $17.35-$19 million, the Legacy 500 is a compelling option for discerning private jet buyers.
Introduction to the Embraer Legacy 500
Embraer, a top Brazilian aircraft maker since 1969, entered the business jet market with the Legacy series in the early 2000s.
The Embraer Legacy 500, launched in 2008, is part of a family that includes the Legacy 450 and their enhanced versions, the Praetor 500 and 600. These corporate aircraft are known for their advanced technology, luxurious comfort, and impressive performance.
They cater to discerning corporate travelers and private owners seeking premium luxury travel solutions.
The Legacy 500 can seat nine passengers and has a maximum range of 5,788 km.
It can fly nonstop from New York to San Francisco or Paris to Dubai. With a spacious flat-floor cabin and a generous 14 large suitcase capacity, the Legacy 500 offers comfort and functionality for both business and leisure travelers.
Sadly, production of the Embraer Legacy 500 ceased in 2020, with over 80 aircraft manufactured during its production run.
| Model | Cruise Speed | Range |
|---|---|---|
| Legacy 450 | M0.83 | 2,900 nm |
| Legacy 500 | M0.83 | 3,125 nm |
| Praetor 500 | M0.83 | 3,300 nm |
| Praetor 600 | M0.83 | 4,018 nm |
The Praetor 500 and 600, introduced in 2018, have further enhanced Embraer’s corporate aircraft lineup.
With increased fuel capacities and range, these upgraded models provide even greater value to corporate and private jet owners. They seek the best in luxury travel and Embraer history.
Key Specifications of the Legacy 500
The Embraer Legacy 500 is a midsize business jet known for its great performance. It offers luxury inside and can fly long distances. This makes it a top pick for those who love private flying.
This jet can fly at speeds of up to 466 knots (536 mph). It can travel up to 3,125 nautical miles without stopping. This means you can fly from New York to London or Dubai to Paris without a break.
The Legacy 500 has a cabin that can hold up to 12 people. It’s very spacious, with 6 feet of headroom and 6 feet 10 inches of width. This makes flying very comfortable.
The jet’s avionics are top-notch, thanks to Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion. It has high-resolution screens, synthetic vision, and advanced weather radar. The fly-by-wire controls also make flying smoother and more precise.
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 68.1 feet |
| Wingspan | 66.4 feet |
| Tail Height | 22.1 feet |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 38,360 lbs |
| Range | 3,125 nautical miles |
| Maximum Cruise Speed | 466 knots |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 feet |
| Takeoff Distance | 4,084 feet |
| Landing Distance | 2,122 feet |
| Engines | 2 x Honeywell HTF7500E |
| Engine Hourly Rate | $350 |
| Engine Overhaul Interval | 8,000 hours |
The Embraer Legacy 500 stands out with its luxury, long range, and advanced tech. It’s a great choice for those who want a top-notch midsize jet.
Interior Features of the Legacy 500
The Embraer Legacy 500 has a spacious and luxurious cabin. It’s designed for business aviation travelers. The cabin is 27.5 feet long, 6.8 feet wide, and 6 feet tall. It can hold up to 12 passengers comfortably.
The seats in the cabin can turn into lie-flat beds. This makes long luxury travel flights more comfortable. There’s also a well-equipped galley and a fully enclosed lavatory for extra comfort and convenience.
The cockpit of the Legacy 500 uses the latest Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics. It has high-resolution screens, synthetic vision, and advanced weather radar. This technology makes flying safer and more reliable, enhancing the business aviation experience.
Customers can customize the Legacy 500’s interior to their liking. There are many seating options and finishes to choose from. This lets each owner create a unique and personalized luxury travel experience.
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Cabin Length | 27.5 feet |
| Cabin Width | 6.8 feet |
| Cabin Height | 6 feet |
| Typical Seating Capacity | 12 passengers |
| Lavatory | Fully enclosed |
| Galley | Well-equipped |
| Cockpit Avionics | Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion |
“The Legacy 500’s cabin offers an unparalleled level of comfort and functionality, making it an ideal choice for discerning business aviation travelers.”
Safety and Compliance Standards
The Embraer Legacy 500 shows its dedication to safety and following rules. It got its type certificate from Brazil’s ANAC on August 12, 2014. Then, the FAA certified it on October 21, 2014. This means the Legacy 500 meets top safety standards from around the world.
The Legacy 500 can fly in daylight, at night, and under the stars. It’s also okay for flying in cloudy weather and for landing in low visibility. These features show the aircraft’s advanced design and safety focus.
One big safety feature is its fly-by-wire flight control system. It makes flying safer and easier for pilots. The Legacy 500 also has an optional system for better vision during flight. This includes a head-up display and infrared camera.
| Certification | Approval | Date |
|---|---|---|
| ANAC Type Certificate | Brazil’s National Civil Aviation Agency | August 12, 2014 |
| FAA Certification | Federal Aviation Administration | October 21, 2014 |
| Approved for RVSM Airspace | Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum | N/A |
| Approved for Flight into Known Icing | N/A | N/A |
| Approved for Category II ILS Operations | Instrument Landing System | N/A |
“The Legacy 500’s fly-by-wire technology and advanced safety features provide a level of confidence and control that is unparalleled in the private jet industry.”
Competitive Comparison
The Embraer Legacy 500 is a top contender in the midsize jet market. It faces stiff competition from the Cessna Citation Sovereign+ and Citation X. It even goes up against super-midsize jets like the Gulfstream G280 and Bombardier Challenger 350.
The Legacy 500 shines with its fly-by-wire technology. This gives pilots better control and response. Its spacious cabin and strong performance make it a standout in its class. Prices for the Legacy 500 start at $13,995,000 and go up to $17,500,000, making it a premium choice for business jet buyers.
| Aircraft | Purchase Price | Range (nm) | Max Passengers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Embraer Legacy 500 | $13,995,000 – $17,500,000 | 3,125 | 9 |
| Cessna Citation Sovereign+ | $17,900,000 | 3,000 | 12 |
| Gulfstream G280 | $24,000,000 | 3,600 | 8 |
| Bombardier Challenger 350 | $26,000,000 | 3,200 | 9 |
The Legacy 500 offers a unique blend of advanced technology, comfort, and value. It’s a top pick for those looking for luxury and efficiency in a midsize jet. It stands out in the midsize jet market for its compelling features.
Customer Satisfaction and Feedback
The Embraer Legacy 500 has received great reviews from owners and experts. It’s known as a top business jet. Embraer’s focus on innovation shows in its advanced tech and comfy cabin.
Publications have praised the Legacy 500’s smooth ride and spacious cabin. Business travelers love it for reaching small airports and long-distance flights. It’s a versatile and efficient choice.
“The Legacy 500 delivers an impressively smooth and stable ride, with a cabin that offers exceptional comfort and generous space for its class. This aircraft is a true game-changer in the midsize business jet segment.”
– Aviation expert, Private Jet Magazine
| Business Jet Ratings | Embraer Legacy 500 | Competitor 1 | Competitor 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabin Comfort | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 | 4.5/5 |
| Performance | 4.9/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 |
| Avionics | 4.7/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.4/5 |
| Overall Satisfaction | 4.8/5 | 4.4/5 | 4.5/5 |
The Embraer Legacy 500 stands out for its performance, comfort, and tech. It has earned high ratings from owners and experts. This makes it a top choice in the midsize business jet market.
Maintenance and Support for Legacy 500
Embraer, a top aircraft maker, offers full maintenance and support for the Legacy 500. This ensures smooth flying and top performance for its users. The maintenance plan helps owners understand the costs of flying the Legacy 500.
The Legacy 500’s yearly fixed costs are about $829,859. This includes crew, hangar, insurance, and other expenses. The hourly costs are around $4,342.36, covering fuel, maintenance, and more.
The Legacy 500’s engines need an overhaul every 8,000 hours. This costs about $600,000 per engine. Embraer’s global network of service centers helps owners and operators get the maintenance they need, no matter where they are.
| Maintenance and Support Services | Embraer Legacy 500 |
|---|---|
| Annual Fixed Costs | $829,859 |
| Variable Hourly Costs | $4,342.36 |
| Engine Overhaul Interval | 8,000 hours |
| Engine Overhaul Cost (per engine) | $600,000 |
| Global Service Center Network | Yes |
Embraer’s dedication to top-notch maintenance and support gives Legacy 500 owners peace of mind. They know their aircraft is in good hands and ready to fly whenever needed.
Purchasing Options and Financing
When looking to buy an Embraer Legacy 500, you have many choices. New Legacy 500s cost between $13,995,000 and $17,500,000. The used market offers prices from $16,000,000 to $17,000,000.
Embraer and its partners offer various aircraft financing options. These include buying outright, leasing, or fractional ownership. These choices can make the Legacy 500 price more affordable.
For financing, you can talk to aviation finance companies and banks. They offer good loan terms because of the Legacy 500’s strong value and Embraer’s reputation. This makes buying easier for potential owners.
| Financing Option | Typical Costs |
|---|---|
| Outright Purchase | $13,995,000 – $17,500,000 |
| Pre-Owned Purchase | $16,000,000 – $17,000,000 |
| Leasing | Monthly payments based on aircraft value and lease terms |
| Fractional Ownership | Initial share purchase plus hourly usage fees |
Exploring the different ways to buy and finance an Embraer Legacy 500 helps. You can find a solution that fits your needs and budget. This makes buying this top business jet easier and more accessible.
Final Thoughts on the Legacy 500
The Embraer Legacy 500 stands out in the midsize business jet world. It shows Embraer’s focus on innovation and tech. It can fly fast, reaching speeds of Mach 0.83, and go far, up to 3,125 nautical miles.
Its advanced controls, top-notch avionics, and roomy cabin make it popular. Business jet fans and owners love it.
The Legacy 500 is a reliable and flexible choice in business aviation. The Praetor series, built on its success, shows Embraer’s commitment to the market. Over 80 Legacy 500s are flying in North America, Latin America, and Western Europe.
Embraer’s dedication to improvement means the Legacy series will stay a top pick. The Legacy 500 is a key step in midsize business jet evolution. It combines the latest tech, great performance, and comfort.
As Embraer keeps investing in the Legacy and explores new ideas, its future in business aviation looks bright.
Featured Image: Markus Eigenheer from Genève, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
