Cessna Citation CJ3 vs Cessna Citation CJ2
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 CJ3 | Cessna Citation CJ2 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $4,750,000 – $5,595,000 | $2,380,000 – $3,985,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 8 |
| Cruise Speed | 391 kts (724 km/h) | 389 kts (720 km/h) |
| Range | 1,875 nm (3,472 km) | 1,520 nm (2,815 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 13,870 lbs (6,291 kg) | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) |
| Useful Load | 3,230 lbs (1,465 kg) | 3,450 lbs (1,565 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 438.0 gal (1658 L) | 430.0 gal (1628 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) | 130.0 GPH (492 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 3,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $275,000 | $250,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $335,000 | $230,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $1,850 | $1,600 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation CJ3
Fuel$688/hr
Variable$1,850/hr
Annual Fixed$335,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$705,000/yr
Cessna Citation CJ2
Fuel$715/hr
Variable$1,600/hr
Annual Fixed$230,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$550,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation CJ3 or Cessna Citation CJ2?
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 CJ3 if…
- More seats — 9 vs 8.
- Faster cruise — 391 kts vs 389 kts.
- Longer range — 1875 nm vs 1520 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2004 vs 2003.
- More inventory — 73 listings vs 52.
Pick the Citation CJ2 if…
- Budget matters — from $2,380,000 vs $4,750,000, you save ~$2,370,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$1600/hr vs $1850/hr.
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 CJ3 or Cessna Citation CJ2?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation CJ3 cruises at 391 kts with 1,875 nm range.
The Citation CJ2 cruises at 389 kts with 1,520 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation CJ3 and Cessna Citation CJ2?
Seats: 9 vs 8.
Cruise: 391 vs 389 kts.
Range: 1875 vs 1520 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation CJ3: about $1850/hr variable cost.
Citation CJ2: about $1600/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 CJ3: 9 seats / 3,230 lb useful load.
Citation CJ2: 8 seats / 3,450 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 CJ3: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$275,000.
Citation CJ2: 3,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$250,000.
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