Cessna Citation CJ1 vs Cessna Citation CJ2 vs Cessna Citation CJ3
The Citation CJ1, CJ2, and CJ3 form the core of the popular CitationJet light-jet ladder. Each step adds fuselage length, more powerful engines, greater range, and more seats, while keeping single-pilot certification and similar handling. Owners and operators move up this ladder as range and cabin needs increase.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation CJ1 | Cessna Citation CJ2 | Cessna Citation CJ3 |
|---|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | $595,000 – $2,100,000 | $2,380,000 – $3,985,000 | $4,750,000 – $5,595,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | |||
| Seats | 6 | 8 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 359 kts (665 km/h) | 389 kts (720 km/h) | 391 kts (724 km/h) |
| Range | 1,150 nm (2,130 km) | 1,520 nm (2,815 km) | 1,875 nm (3,472 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 41,000 ft (12,497 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg) | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 13,870 lbs (6,291 kg) |
| Useful Load | 2,850 lbs (1,293 kg) | 3,450 lbs (1,565 kg) | 3,230 lbs (1,465 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 357.0 gal (1351 L) | 430.0 gal (1628 L) | 438.0 gal (1658 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 110.0 GPH (416 L/h) | 130.0 GPH (492 L/h) | 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 3,500 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $260,000 | $250,000 | $275,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $280,000 | $230,000 | $335,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $1,800 | $1,600 | $1,850 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation CJ1
Fuel$605/hr
Variable$1,800/hr
Annual Fixed$280,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$640,000/yr
Cessna Citation CJ2
Fuel$715/hr
Variable$1,600/hr
Annual Fixed$230,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$550,000/yr
Cessna Citation CJ3
Fuel$688/hr
Variable$1,850/hr
Annual Fixed$335,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$705,000/yr
Which Should You Buy?
Bottom line: The CJ1 is the most economical entry for short trips and small groups. The CJ2 adds welcome range and a longer cabin for the typical owner mission, while the CJ3 is the sweet spot for those needing the most range, payload, and stand-up-adjacent comfort in the single-pilot CitationJet family.
Pick the Citation CJ1 if…
- Lowest entry price — from $595,000
- Most listings for sale — 90
Pick the Citation CJ2 if…
- Lowest operating cost — about $1600/hr
Pick the Citation CJ3 if…
- Most seats — 9
- Fastest cruise — 391 kts
- Longest range — 1875 nm
- Newest design — built from 2004
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna Citation CJ1, Cessna Citation CJ2 or Cessna Citation CJ3?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation CJ1 cruises at 359 kts with 1,150 nm range.
The Citation CJ2 cruises at 389 kts with 1,520 nm range.
The Citation CJ3 cruises at 391 kts with 1,875 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation CJ3: from $4,750,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data