Learjet 45 vs Cessna Citation II
The Citation II (1980s/90s 500-series light, ~385 kt) is an older Citation light jet; the CJ3 (modern, ~417 kt, single-pilot) is the modern CitationJet evolution; the Learjet 45 (~460 kt swept-wing modern light) is the speed-Learjet alternative.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 45 | Cessna Citation II |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 | $273,750 – $2,649,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 10 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 345 kts (639 km/h) |
| Range | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) | 1,600 nm (2,963 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 43,000 ft (13,106 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) | 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) | 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 575.0 gal (2176 L) | 470.0 gal (1779 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) | 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 4,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $350,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,500 | $2,200 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 45
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,500/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$850,000/yr
Cessna Citation II
Fuel$688/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$790,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Learjet 45 or Cessna Citation II?
Bottom line: Choose the CJ3 for the modern Cessna light-jet platform with single-pilot certification and class-leading reliability. Choose the Learjet 45 for ramp presence and ~45 kt more cruise. Choose the Citation II only for materially lower acquisition cost — older platform with mandate-upgrade costs.
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.
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 — 63 listings vs 60.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Learjet 45 or Cessna Citation II?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 45 cruises at 438 kts with 2,120 nm range.
The Citation II cruises at 345 kts with 1,600 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 Learjet 45 and Cessna Citation II?
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
Seats: 9 vs 10.
Cruise: 438 vs 345 kts.
Range: 2120 vs 1600 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
45: about $2500/hr variable cost.
Citation II: 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?
45: 9 seats / 5,200 lb useful load.
Citation II: 10 seats / 4,000 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?
45: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
Citation II: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000.
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