The Cessna CitationJet/CJ series (Model 525) are American turbofan-powered light corporate jets. The first production Citation CJ4 took it’s first flight on August 19, 2008. The Citation brand of business jets encompasses seven distinct “families” of aircraft. The Model 525 CitationJet was the basis for one of these families, which encompasses the CJ, CJ1, CJ1+, CJ2, CJ2+, CJ3, and CJ4 models.
Developing nation: USA.
Manufacturer/designer: Cessna Aircraft Company.
Production Lines: Wichita, Kansas
Type aircraft: Turbofan-powered light corporate jets.
First flight: 5 May 2008.
State: in service.
The Cessna Citation CJ4 is the newest aircraft in Cessna’s world-dominating stable, once again setting the standard for small jets. It is a stretch extension of the CJ3, adding an additional two feet to the CJ3 cabin. Larger, faster and more comfortable, the aircraft still maintains its smaller siblings’ ability to access a wide range of airfields giving passengers ultimate flexibility on routes and airport choice.
The CJ4’s features are the most advanced yet of any in the Citation line. With upgraded engines, avionics and a redesigned wing structure, the aircraft’s performance has been increased substantially. This greater range and higher speed means the CJ4 can comfortably fly 7 passengers from London to Moscow at high speed.
Comparing the Cessna Citation CJ4
| Aircraft | CJ1 / 1+ | CJ2 / 2+ | CJ3 | CJ4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year introduced | 1992 | 2000 | 2004 | 2009 |
| Seats | 6 | 7 | 7 | 8 |
| Cruise Speed | 440mph | 480mph | 475mph | 510mph |
| Range nm | 1250 | 1400 | 1488 | 2002 |
| Cabin Length | 3.35m | 4.14m | 4.78m | 5.28m |
| Cabin Width | 1.47m | 1.47m | 1.47m | 1.47m |
| Cost per Flight Hour | £2000 | £2050 | £2200 | £2350 |
| Aircraft Cost | $6m | $7m | $8m | $10m |
| Features | The CJ1 was developed to replace the Citation I. It featured advanced avionics and engines and increased passenger comfort. The CJ1 has now set the standard for light jet travel across the globe. | The CJ2 is a stretched version of the CJ1. It carries an extra passenger and its upgraded engines and avionics provide increased performance over its smaller sibling. | The CJ3 is a re-vamped and further extended version of the CJ1. With stylish interiors and advanced on-board entertainment, the CJ3 is among the most luxurious light jets currently available. | The CJ4 is the brand new and completely updated Citation Jet. It features a new cabin design and wing shape that provides both significantly increased performance and the best possible level of passenger comfort in the light jet market. |
All pictures courtesy of Zijde Aviation Photo and Publishing, Rob Vogelaar.
