Embraer Legacy 500
The first deliveries of the Legacy 500 occurred in early 2014 as Embraer launched their first-ever aircraft to have a revolutionary fly-by-wire cockpit, intended to fill the gap between their larger Legacy aircraft and the Phenom series. It is also the first Super Midsize Jet with full fly-by-wire technology, providing improved comfort, efficiency and stability.
Embraer designed the 500 with one objective: to become the leader of its class. In terms of its interior, the Legacy 500 offers a wider and longer cabin than any other Super Midsize jet in existence, providing unparalleled space and comfort. Designed by BMW, the cabin features typical seating for up to 10 passengers, and premium seats are available, which include electrically actuated lumbar support, and massage and heating systems not seen on any other jet in the category.
The Legacy 500 does not compromise performance for its luxurious cabin, as it offers an excellent range and maximum cruise, thanks to its two state-of-the-art turbofan engines, which are more fuel-efficient than those of the majority of its rivals. Fast, efficient and extremely comfortable, the Legacy 500 provides an exceptional service.
Midsize Jet
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Embraer |
| Category | Midsize Jet |
| Range* | 5787 km 3125 NM |
| Cruise speed | 863 km/h 466 kts |
| Seats** | 8 |
| Suitcases | 9 |
* with IFR reserves
** in standard configuration
Aircraft Pictures
History
Embraer launched the Legacy 500 in April 2008 as part of an ambitious plan to create mid-size business jets featuring revolutionary technology. The aircraft was designed to bridge the gap between smaller and larger jets while introducing advanced systems previously unseen in its category.
The first prototype was rolled out on December 23, 2011, beginning ground testing and systems evaluation. The first engine run was completed on January 17, 2012, followed by the maiden flight on November 27, 2012.
The Legacy 500 pioneered several technologies, including the first fly-by-wire system and flat-floor stand-up cabin in the mid-size category. The aircraft received certification on August 12, 2014, following extensive testing of these innovative systems.
Embraer enhanced the design with the Praetor 600 variant in October 2018, adding additional fuel tanks for extended range. Unlike the Legacy 450/Praetor 500 relationship, the Legacy 500 could not be upgraded to Praetor 600 specifications due to structural differences, requiring customers to purchase new aircraft.
Technical Specifications
General information
| Model name | Legacy 500 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Embraer |
| Aircraft category | midsize jet |
| ICAO Designator | E550 |
| Start/End of Production | 2014 - 2020 |
| Number of pilot(s) | 2 |
Performances
| Range (with IFR reserves) | 3125 NM (5787 km) |
|---|---|
| Ferry range | 3300 NM (6112 km) |
| Cruise speed | 466 kts (863 km/h) |
| Max Operating Speed – VMO | 320 KIAS |
| Max Mach Operating Speed - MMO | Mach 0.83 |
| Long-Range Cruise Speed - LRC | 436 KTAS |
| Approach Speed | 121 kts |
| Takeoff Distance | 1402 m |
| Average Landing Distance | 644 m |
| Service Ceiling | 45000 ft |
| Thrust | 7036 lbf |
Aircraft technology
| Engine type | Turbofan |
|---|---|
| Engine(s) | 2 x Honeywell HTF7500E |
| Avionics | Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion |
Dimensions and capacity
| Aircraft length | 20.74 m |
|---|---|
| Aircraft height | 6.44 m |
| Wing span | 20.25 m |
| Cabin height | 1.82 m (6.0 ft) |
| Cabin length | 8.38 m (27.5 ft) |
| Cabin width | 2.10 m (6.92 ft) |
| Baggage volume | 4.4 m3 |
| Seats (standard config) | 8 |
| Seats (max) | 12 |
| Suitcases | 9 |
| Carry-on luggage | 4 |
| Maximum payload | 1300 kg |
| Maximum TakeOff Weight - MTOW | 17400 kg |
| Maximum Landing Weight - MLW | 15650 kg |
FAQ
Does the Legacy 500 have more range than the Legacy 650?
No, the Legacy 650 has significantly more range than the Legacy 500. The Legacy 650 achieves 7,223 km compared to the Legacy 500's range of 5,788 km (3,125 nautical miles), providing an additional 1,435 km of non-stop flying capability. This means the Legacy 650 can reach destinations such as London to Bangkok or New York to London that would require a fuel stop with the Legacy 500. However, the Legacy 500 offers a more modern design with advanced fly-by-wire technology and was introduced in 2014 as a newer generation aircraft compared to the Legacy 650's earlier development.
What is the cruising speed of the Legacy 500?
The Legacy 500 cruises at 863 km/h (466 knots), positioning it competitively within the midsize jet category. This speed allows the aircraft to cover European routes efficiently, making it well-suited for business travel where time efficiency is essential. The Legacy 500's cruise speed enables flights such as London to Madrid in under two hours or Frankfurt to Rome in approximately 90 minutes.
How many passengers can the Legacy 500 accommodate?
The Legacy 500 can accommodate up to 12 passengers in maximum configuration, though it typically seats 9 passengers in standard executive layout. The aircraft features a spacious flat-floor cabin measuring 8.17 metres in length, 2.08 metres in width, and 1.83 metres in height, providing generous headroom for passengers to stand and move comfortably throughout the flight. The cabin can also carry 4 carry-on bags plus 9 suitcases, making it suitable for extended business trips.
What is the range of the Legacy 500, and which city pairs can it connect?
The Legacy 500 has an NBAA IFR range of 5,788 km (3,125 nautical miles), providing excellent transcontinental capability. This range enables non-stop flights such as London to Dubai or New York to Los Angeles without refuelling stops. The aircraft's substantial range makes it particularly suitable for intercontinental business travel, allowing passengers to reach major destinations across continents on a single fuel load.
What makes the Legacy 500's fly-by-wire technology significant?
The Legacy 500 was the first midsize jet to feature full fly-by-wire flight controls, a revolutionary technology previously reserved for larger commercial airliners. This system reduces pilot workload by automatically managing many flight parameters, whilst providing enhanced safety through built-in protection against stalls and other dangerous flight conditions. The fly-by-wire system also contributes to improved fuel efficiency and smoother flight characteristics, making the Legacy 500 more stable in turbulence and more comfortable for passengers during all phases of flight.
