Cessna Citation II Aircraft

The Citation II (Model 550) is the Citation I's successor — longer range, more cabin, and the JT15D-4 engine family in place of the -1. Produced from 1978 into the mid-1990s, it represents the mid-generation of the early straight-wing Citation family and remains one of the most common used Citations on the market.

Engine: Two JT15D-4 (later JT15D-4B) engines — a meaningful step up from the JT15D-1 in the Citation I. The -4 family is well-supported with a large installed base; confirm hot-section status and program enrollment, which drives operating cost more than acquisition price.

Single-pilot and S variants: The Model 551 Citation II/SP is the single-pilot-certified version, while the standard 550 requires two crew. The Citation S/II (Model S550) is a distinct variant with a redesigned supercritical wing and more fuel and range — it is not stretched and does not have winglets. Confirm exactly which variant any aircraft is when comparing examples.

Avionics: Most Citation IIs carry legacy Collins avionics — budgeting for ADS-B compliance, terrain warning, and modern approach capability adds to the purchase cost unless already upgraded.

Buy it if: you want a well-supported, mid-generation Citation with adequate range for most domestic legs and a large pool of pre-buy specialists. Step up to the Citation V (560) for more cabin and range; step down to the Citation I (500/501) for lower cost and simpler systems. The Model 551 is the pick for owner-pilots who want single-pilot operation without stepping into the CJ family.