Wheels Up Experience is purchasing six factory-new Phenom 300E premium jets for delivery in the second half of 2027. The agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between Wheels Up and Embraer and follows nearly three years of discussions regarding the acquisition of new aircraft. The direct purchase from Embraer is expected to further expand Wheels Up's fully modernised fleet and support the company's growth in anticipated customer demand.
The Phenom 300 series premium light jet, a core platform within Wheels Up's modernised jet fleet, has been the world's best-selling light jet for more than a decade, offering industry-leading operational performance, reliability, range and cabin comfort. The six newly purchased Phenom 300E aircraft will join the 29 Phenom 300/300E jets and 15 Bombardier Challenger 300 series aircraft that currently comprise Wheels Up's premium controlled fleet. The aircraft will arrive with satellite Wi-Fi already installed, matching Wheels Up's Phenom and Challenger fleets, which are 100% satellite Wi-Fi-equipped.
“Having completed our fleet modernisation programme earlier this year, over 18 months ahead of schedule, we have seen strong growth in demand for our Signature membership offering, supported by our best-in-class fleet of Phenom and Challenger aircraft. We have welcomed more than 1,500 Signature members to the programme in its first year since launch,” shares George Mattson, chief executive officer of Wheels Up. “Embraer has been a valued partner to Wheels Up for years, and this agreement marks an important next chapter in that relationship. The decision to acquire factory-new Phenom 300Es reflects the strong demand trends we are seeing in our business and our commitment to investing in a consistent, premium experience for our customers.”
Over the past three years, Wheels Up says it has fundamentally reshaped its business, streamlining and modernising its fleet, improving operational reliability, unifying its global sales and service teams, and strengthening its first-of-its-kind strategic partnership with Delta Air Lines.
“This agreement marks an important milestone in our relationship with Wheels Up and reflects the work and planning that began in 2024 to bring new Phenom 300E aircraft into its fleet,” states Michael Amalfitano, president and CEO of Embraer Executive Jets. “We are proud that this first agreement brings the world's best-selling, most delivered light jet to more Wheels Up customers. We look forward to supporting the growth in its modernised fleet and delivering an exceptional experience through the Phenom 300E's industry-leading performance, technology, comfort and operational capabilities.”