CRJ900 vs Embraer E170
The CRJ900 leads, topping 3 of 7 compared metrics.
The Bombardier Aviation CRJ900 (introduced 2003) and the Embraer Executive Jets Embraer E170 (introduced 2004) are two aircraft buyers regularly weigh against each other. Both are regional, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the Embraer E170 has the advantage. We line the numbers up below, then translate them into the mission each aircraft actually wins.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
CRJ900 vs Embraer E170: the key differences
- The Embraer E170 delivers 35% more range (CRJ900: 1,550 nm; Embraer E170: 2,100 nm).
- The CRJ900 delivers 5% more cruise speed (CRJ900: 470 kt; Embraer E170: 447 kt).
- The CRJ900 delivers 13% more passenger capacity (CRJ900: 90 seats; Embraer E170: 80 seats).
- The Embraer E170 is the newer design (introduced 2004 versus 2003 for the CRJ900), a gap of 1 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The CRJ900 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (84,500 lbs versus 82,012 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The Embraer E170 is the stronger fit for transcontinental missions — its 2,100 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The CRJ900, at 1,550 nm, is better matched to regional and short-to-medium legs, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the CRJ900's range, the Embraer E170's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the Embraer E170 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the CRJ900 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the CRJ900 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
More comparisons
CRJ900 vs Embraer E170: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the CRJ900 or the Embraer E170?
The Embraer E170 has the longer published range — 2,100 nm versus 1,550 nm for the CRJ900.
Does the CRJ900 or Embraer E170 seat more passengers?
The CRJ900 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 90 seats, compared with 80 on the Embraer E170.
Which is faster, the CRJ900 or the Embraer E170?
The CRJ900 cruises faster, at 470 kt versus 447 kt for the Embraer E170.
Which is newer, the CRJ900 or the Embraer E170?
The Embraer E170 is the newer design, introduced in 2004 versus 2003 for the CRJ900.
Is the CRJ900 or the Embraer E170 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the CRJ900 is the larger aircraft — 84,500 lbs versus 82,012 lbs for the Embraer E170.
Should I buy the CRJ900 or the Embraer E170?
Choose the Embraer E170 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the CRJ900 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the CRJ900 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the CRJ900 vs Embraer E170?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.