Cessna Citation CJ2 vs Cessna Citation CJ1
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 CJ2 | Cessna Citation CJ1 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $2,380,000 – $3,985,000 | $595,000 – $2,100,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Cruise Speed | 389 kts (720 km/h) | 359 kts (665 km/h) |
| Range | 1,520 nm (2,815 km) | 1,150 nm (2,130 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 41,000 ft (12,497 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 10,600 lbs (4,808 kg) |
| Useful Load | 3,450 lbs (1,565 kg) | 2,850 lbs (1,293 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 430.0 gal (1628 L) | 357.0 gal (1351 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 130.0 GPH (492 L/h) | 110.0 GPH (416 L/h) |
| TBO | 3,500 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $250,000 | $260,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $230,000 | $280,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $1,600 | $1,800 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation CJ2
Fuel$715/hr
Variable$1,600/hr
Annual Fixed$230,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$550,000/yr
Cessna Citation CJ1
Fuel$605/hr
Variable$1,800/hr
Annual Fixed$280,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$640,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation CJ2 or Cessna Citation CJ1?
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 CJ2 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$1600/hr vs $1800/hr.
- More seats — 8 vs 6.
- Faster cruise — 389 kts vs 359 kts.
- Longer range — 1520 nm vs 1150 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2003 vs 2000.
Pick the Citation CJ1 if…
- Budget matters — from $595,000 vs $2,380,000, you save ~$1,785,000.
- More inventory — 93 listings vs 52.
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 CJ2 or Cessna Citation CJ1?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation CJ2 cruises at 389 kts with 1,520 nm range.
The Citation CJ1 cruises at 359 kts with 1,150 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation CJ1: from $595,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation CJ2 and Cessna Citation CJ1?
Seats: 8 vs 6.
Cruise: 389 vs 359 kts.
Range: 1520 vs 1150 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation CJ2: about $1600/hr variable cost.
Citation CJ1: about $1800/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Citation CJ2: 8 seats / 3,450 lb useful load.
Citation CJ1: 6 seats / 2,850 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Citation CJ2: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$250,000.
Citation CJ1: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$260,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
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