Cessna Citation CJ2 vs Cessna Citation CJ3 vs Cessna Citation CJ4
The Citation CJ2, CJ3, and CJ4 represent the upper rungs of the CitationJet ladder that light-jet buyers compare. The CJ3 stretches the cabin and range over the CJ2, while the CJ4 is the largest and fastest, with a swept wing and the most range and seating. All remain single-pilot certified with strong operating economics.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation CJ2 | Cessna Citation CJ3 | Cessna Citation CJ4 |
|---|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | $2,380,000 – $3,985,000 | $4,750,000 – $5,595,000 | $4,500,000 – $12,700,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | |||
| Seats | 8 | 9 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 389 kts (720 km/h) | 391 kts (724 km/h) | 420 kts (778 km/h) |
| Range | 1,520 nm (2,815 km) | 1,875 nm (3,472 km) | 2,165 nm (4,010 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 13,870 lbs (6,291 kg) | 17,110 lbs (7,761 kg) |
| Useful Load | 3,450 lbs (1,565 kg) | 3,230 lbs (1,465 kg) | 4,700 lbs (2,132 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 430.0 gal (1628 L) | 438.0 gal (1658 L) | 581.0 gal (2199 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 130.0 GPH (492 L/h) | 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) | 165.0 GPH (625 L/h) |
| TBO | 3,500 hrs | 5,000 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $250,000 | $275,000 | $325,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $230,000 | $335,000 | $385,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $1,600 | $1,850 | $2,150 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 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 CJ3
Fuel$688/hr
Variable$1,850/hr
Annual Fixed$335,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$705,000/yr
Cessna Citation CJ4
Fuel$908/hr
Variable$2,150/hr
Annual Fixed$385,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$815,000/yr
Which Should You Buy?
Bottom line: The CJ2 suits buyers wanting CitationJet economy for regional trips. The CJ3 balances range and cabin for most owner missions, while the CJ4 is the choice for those needing the longest range, highest speed, and largest cabin in the line, at the highest acquisition cost.
Pick the Citation CJ2 if…
- Lowest entry price — from $2,380,000
- Lowest operating cost — about $1600/hr
Pick the Citation CJ3 if…
- Most listings for sale — 73
Pick the Citation CJ4 if…
- Most seats — 10
- Fastest cruise — 420 kts
- Longest range — 2165 nm
- Newest design — built from 2010
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, Cessna Citation CJ3 or Cessna Citation CJ4?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation CJ2 cruises at 389 kts with 1,520 nm range.
The Citation CJ3 cruises at 391 kts with 1,875 nm range.
The Citation CJ4 cruises at 420 kts with 2,165 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.
Cessna Citation CJ4: from $6,250,000.
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