Cessna Citation CJ4 vs Pilatus PC-24

The Pilatus PC-24 and Citation CJ4 are light jets that buyers compare for utility versus efficiency. The PC-24 offers unmatched short and unpaved-runway capability with a large cargo door, while the CJ4 provides single-pilot certification and proven Citation economics. Both seat similar numbers but emphasize different mission strengths.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Cessna Citation CJ4 Pilatus PC-24
Cessna Citation CJ4
View 34 listings →
Median $6,250,000
Pilatus PC-24
View 18 listings →
Median $11,347,500
Price Range $4,500,000 – $12,700,000 $10,700,000 – $11,995,000
Category Light Jet Light Jet
Model Specifications
Seats 10 11
Cruise Speed 420 kts (778 km/h) 410 kts (759 km/h)
Range 2,165 nm (4,010 km) 2,000 nm (3,704 km)
Service Ceiling 45,000 ft (13,716 m) 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Max Gross Weight 17,110 lbs (7,761 kg) 18,300 lbs (8,301 kg)
Useful Load 4,700 lbs (2,132 kg) 5,520 lbs (2,504 kg)
Fuel Capacity 581.0 gal (2199 L) 620.0 gal (2347 L)
Fuel Burn 165.0 GPH (625 L/h) 175.0 GPH (662 L/h)
TBO 5,000 hrs 5,000 hrs
Overhaul Cost $325,000 $400,000
Annual Fixed $385,000 $400,000
Hourly Variable $2,150 $2,200
Engines 2 x Turbofan 2 x Turbofan

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Cessna Citation CJ4

Fuel$908/hr
Variable$2,150/hr
Annual Fixed$385,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $815,000/yr

Pilatus PC-24

Fuel$962/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$400,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $840,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation CJ4 or Pilatus PC-24?

Bottom line: Choose the PC-24 for rough-field access, a cargo door, and cabin flexibility for varied missions. Pick the CJ4 for single-pilot operation, the broad Citation support network, and efficient conventional-runway travel; the PC-24 is the versatile utility jet, while the CJ4 is the economical owner-flown light jet.

Pick the Citation CJ4 if…

  • Budget matters — from $4,500,000 vs $10,700,000, you save ~$6,200,000.
  • Lower operating cost — ~$2150/hr vs $2200/hr.
  • Faster cruise — 420 kts vs 410 kts.
  • Longer range — 2165 nm vs 2000 nm.
  • More inventory — 34 listings vs 18.

Pick the PC-24 if…

  • More seats — 11 vs 10.
  • Newer design — production from 2018 vs 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 CJ4 or Pilatus PC-24?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Citation CJ4 cruises at 420 kts with 2,165 nm range. The PC-24 cruises at 410 kts with 2,000 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation CJ4: from $6,250,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation CJ4 and Pilatus PC-24?
PC-24 engine: Williams FJ44-4A. Seats: 10 vs 11. Cruise: 420 vs 410 kts. Range: 2165 vs 2000 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation CJ4: about $2150/hr variable cost. PC-24: about $2200/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 CJ4: 10 seats / 4,700 lb useful load. PC-24: 11 seats / 5,520 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 CJ4: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$325,000. PC-24: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000. 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