Cessna Citation V vs Learjet 45
The Cessna Citation V and Learjet 45 are light jets with different priorities. The straight-wing, two-crew Citation V is a durable, comfortable jet with gentle handling and good field performance, while the swept-wing, TFE731-powered Learjet 45 is faster, climbs higher, and offers a sleeker, more modern profile.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation V | Learjet 45 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $397,500 – $4,500,000 | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 390 kts (722 km/h) | 438 kts (811 km/h) |
| Range | 1,800 nm (3,334 km) | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 15,900 lbs (7,212 kg) | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) |
| Useful Load | 4,250 lbs (1,928 kg) | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 500.0 gal (1892 L) | 575.0 gal (2176 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 140.0 GPH (530 L/h) | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) |
| TBO | 4,500 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $300,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $300,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,000 | $2,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation V
Fuel$770/hr
Variable$2,000/hr
Annual Fixed$300,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$700,000/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 V or Learjet 45?
Bottom line: Choose the Citation V for easy handling, runway flexibility, and lower operating costs; pick the Learjet 45 for greater speed, altitude, and a modern feel. Performance needs, operating costs, and cabin preference typically decide this light-jet pairing.
Pick the Citation V if…
- Budget matters — from $397,500 vs $1,495,000, you save ~$1,097,500.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2000/hr vs $2500/hr.
- More inventory — 120 listings vs 70.
Pick the 45 if…
- Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 390 kts.
- Longer range — 2120 nm vs 1800 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1997 vs 1989.
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 V or Learjet 45?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation V cruises at 390 kts with 1,800 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?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation V and Learjet 45?
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
Cruise: 390 vs 438 kts.
Range: 1800 vs 2120 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation V: about $2000/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 V: 9 seats / 4,250 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 V: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$300,000.
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