Cessna Citation Sovereign vs Bombardier Challenger 350

The Citation Sovereign and Bombardier Challenger 350 are cross-shopped as buyers move from mid-size to super-mid-size jets. The Sovereign is an efficient mid-size with transcontinental range, while the Challenger 350 offers a notably wider stand-up cabin, more range, and is one of the best-selling super-mid jets. The decision hinges on cabin size and range needs.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Cessna Citation Sovereign Bombardier Challenger 350
Cessna Citation Sovereign
View 53 listings →
Median $7,600,000
Bombardier Challenger 350
View 18 listings →
Median $18,622,500
Price Range $7,300,000 – $25,495,000 $16,995,000 – $18,795,000
Category Super-Midsize Jet Super-Midsize Jet
Model Specifications
Seats 12 10
Cruise Speed 430 kts (796 km/h) 459 kts (850 km/h)
Range 2,850 nm (5,278 km) 3,200 nm (5,926 km)
Service Ceiling 47,000 ft (14,326 m) 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Max Gross Weight 30,300 lbs (13,744 kg) 40,600 lbs (18,416 kg)
Useful Load 6,300 lbs (2,858 kg)
Fuel Capacity 851.0 gal (3221 L)
Fuel Burn 210.0 GPH (795 L/h) 246.0 GPH (931 L/h)
TBO 5,000 hrs
Overhaul Cost $750,000
Annual Fixed $550,000
Hourly Variable $3,800
Engines 2 x Turbofan 2 x Turbofan

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Cessna Citation Sovereign

Fuel$1,155/hr

Bombardier Challenger 350

Fuel$1,353/hr
Variable$3,800/hr
Annual Fixed$550,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $1,310,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation Sovereign or Bombardier Challenger 350?

Bottom line: Choose the Sovereign for lower operating cost and efficient mid-size missions. Step up to the Challenger 350 when you need a wider cabin, more seating, longer range, and the comfort expected at the super-mid level, accepting higher acquisition and operating expense.

Pick the Citation Sovereign if…

  • Budget matters — from $7,300,000 vs $16,995,000, you save ~$9,695,000.
  • More seats — 12 vs 10.
  • More inventory — 53 listings vs 18.

Pick the Challenger 350 if…

  • Faster cruise — 459 kts vs 430 kts.
  • Longer range — 3200 nm vs 2850 nm.
  • Newer design — production from 2014 vs 2004.

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 Sovereign or Bombardier Challenger 350?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Citation Sovereign cruises at 430 kts with 2,850 nm range. The Challenger 350 cruises at 459 kts with 3,200 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation Sovereign: from $11,500,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation Sovereign and Bombardier Challenger 350?
Challenger 350 engine: Honeywell HTF7350. Seats: 12 vs 10. Cruise: 430 vs 459 kts. Range: 2850 vs 3200 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Challenger 350: about $3800/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 Sovereign: 12 seats / 6,300 lb useful load. Challenger 350: 10 seats. 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?
Challenger 350: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$750,000. 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