Cessna Citation II vs Learjet 45
The Cessna Citation II and Learjet 45 are both light jets from different eras. The straight-wing, two-crew Citation II is an older, easy-flying, economical jet with forgiving runway manners, while the newer swept-wing, TFE731-powered Learjet 45 is faster, climbs higher, and offers a more modern cabin and avionics.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation II | Learjet 45 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $273,750 – $2,649,000 | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 345 kts (639 km/h) | 438 kts (811 km/h) |
| Range | 1,600 nm (2,963 km) | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 43,000 ft (13,106 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg) | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) |
| Useful Load | 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg) | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 470.0 gal (1779 L) | 575.0 gal (2176 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) |
| TBO | 4,500 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $350,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,200 | $2,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation II
Fuel$688/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$790,000/yr
Learjet 45
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,500/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$850,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation II or Learjet 45?
Bottom line: Choose the Citation II for low acquisition cost, gentle handling, and easy field performance; pick the Learjet 45 for greater speed, altitude, and a more modern jet. Age, operating costs, and performance needs typically decide this light-jet pairing.
Pick the Citation II if…
- Budget matters — from $273,750 vs $1,495,000, you save ~$1,221,250.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2200/hr vs $2500/hr.
- More seats — 10 vs 9.
- More inventory — 76 listings vs 70.
Pick the 45 if…
- Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 345 kts.
- Longer range — 2120 nm vs 1600 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1997 vs 1978.
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 II or Learjet 45?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation II cruises at 345 kts with 1,600 nm range.
The 45 cruises at 438 kts with 2,120 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation II: from $725,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation II and Learjet 45?
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
Seats: 10 vs 9.
Cruise: 345 vs 438 kts.
Range: 1600 vs 2120 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation II: about $2200/hr variable cost.
45: about $2500/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 II: 10 seats / 4,000 lb useful load.
45: 9 seats / 5,200 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 II: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000.
45: 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