The Embraer Legacy 500 is a super midsize business jet developed as a clean-sheet design by Embraer Executive Jets. Announced in 2008, the aircraft achieved its first flight in 2012 and entered service in 2014, remaining in production until 2020 before being succeeded by the Praetor 600. It was the first jet in its class to feature full fly-by-wire controls, setting a new benchmark for technology and passenger comfort.
Powered by two Honeywell HTF7500E turbofan engines, each rated at 7,036 pounds of thrust, the Legacy 500 offers a maximum cruise speed of 466 knots and a range of 3,125 nautical miles under NBAA IFR conditions. Its maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) is 38,360 lbs, and it requires approximately 4,084 feet of runway for takeoff. The aircraft operates at a service ceiling of 45,000 feet, enabling efficient long-range missions such as New York–London or Dubai–Paris.
The cabin is a standout feature, designed with a flat floor and stand-up height of 6 ft, a width of 6 ft 10 in, and a length of 20 ft 6 in, resulting in a cabin volume of 826 cu ft. This spacious interior accommodates 8–12 passengers in typical business configurations and integrates advanced amenities through the Honeywell Ovation Select Cabin Management System. The cockpit features the Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion avionics suite, enhancing operational safety and situational awareness.
Operators value the Legacy 500 for its blend of advanced technology, competitive operating economics, and superior cabin comfort, making it a strong performer in the super midsize category. Its fly-by-wire system reduces pilot workload and improves handling precision, while the spacious cabin and flat-floor design enhance passenger experience on long missions. Combined with Embraer’s reputation for reliability and cost efficiency, the Legacy 500 remains a compelling choice for operators seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and modern avionics in a business jet.
