Overview of the Citation CJ2 Jet
The Cessna Citation CJ2 is a light jet built for short and medium trips with a small group. It sits in the middle of the CitationJet family, between the smaller CJ1 and the larger CJ3.
Cessna's model number for the CJ2 is 525A. The first CJ2 was delivered in 2000. The upgraded CJ2+ followed in April 2006, and production of both ended in January 2016 due to low demand.
Like other CitationJets, the CJ2 is certified for single-pilot operation. For a charter, ask the operator how many pilots will fly your trip.
Design and Features of the Citation CJ2 Jet
The CitationJet family shares a few design choices:
- Forward fuselage from the Citation II, paired with a new wing and a T-tail
- A laminar-flow, supercritical wing developed with NASA and Boeing. It keeps smooth airflow over part of the upper surface, which improves efficiency.
- Bleed-air ice protection on the wing instead of deicing boots, which keeps the wing's laminar-flow shape intact
- Trailing-link landing gear for smooth landings
The CJ2 stretches the CJ1 fuselage by 5 feet and uses Williams FJ44-2C turbofans.
Performance and Specifications
Speed and Range of the Citation CJ2 Jet
The figures below are Cessna's own published numbers for the CJ2+, the later version:
| Specification | Citation CJ2+ (Cessna) |
|---|---|
| Maximum range | 1,613 nm |
| Maximum cruise speed | 418 ktas |
| Passengers | 8 |
Published range figures for the CJ2 family vary with the version, the payload and the reserves assumed, which is why you will see different numbers in different places. For a real trip, the operator will confirm whether your route can be flown nonstop with your group and bags.
Capacity and Configuration of the Citation CJ2 Jet
Cessna listed the CJ2+ with seats for 8 passengers. The actual layout depends on the individual aircraft, so ask the operator how the cabin of the aircraft on your trip is set up.
CJ2 vs CJ2+
The CJ2+ (Model 525A serial numbers 0300 and up) improved on the original CJ2 in several ways:
- Williams FJ44-3A-24 engines with FADEC (full-authority digital engine control)
- Updated avionics
- Shorter runway requirements
- TCAS (traffic collision avoidance) and TAWS (terrain awareness) as standard equipment
In 2014, Cessna began offering an Alpine Edition upgrade for the CJ2+, with Garmin G3000 avionics and new cabin styling.
Operating Costs of the Citation CJ2 Jet
The CJ2 is no longer built. In 2012, a new CJ2+ cost about US$7.04 million. Today, buying one means the pre-owned market, where price depends on the year, the version (CJ2 or CJ2+), hours, maintenance history and avionics upgrades.
Running costs follow the same pattern: fuel, maintenance, crew, insurance and hangar costs vary by aircraft and by who manages it. Get figures for the specific aircraft before deciding.
Comparison with Other Jets in its Class
Within its own family, the CJ2 is the middle step. The CJ1 and its successor, the M2, are smaller. The CJ3 is a further stretch of the CJ2, with Williams FJ44-3A engines, and remains in Cessna's lineup. The CJ4 is larger again, with a moderately swept wing.
If you are choosing between light jets for a charter, compare cabin size, baggage space and range for your specific trip, rather than relying on a ranking.
Conclusion and Recommendation
The Citation CJ2 is a practical light jet for regional trips with a small group. If you are chartering, the CJ2+ is the later and better-equipped version.
BLADE arranges private charters of jets, helicopters and turboprops through BLADE Anywhere. Tell BLADE your route, date and group size, and BLADE finds a suitable aircraft from its operator partners. In the United States, all flights are operated by DOT/FAA-licensed carriers, and BLADE's safety team vets its operator partners. If a CJ2 is not available for your date, BLADE can suggest other light jets. The private jet charter cost estimator on blade.com shows suitable aircraft and an estimated price for your airports and date.
FAQs about What Is An Citation Cj2 Jet?
What is a Citation CJ2 jet?
The Citation CJ2 is a light business jet built by Cessna. It is part of the CitationJet family and is a 5-foot stretch of the CJ1.
What engines does the Citation CJ2 use?
The CJ2 uses two Williams FJ44-2C turbofans. The later CJ2+ uses Williams FJ44-3A-24 engines with FADEC.
What is the range of the Citation CJ2?
Cessna listed the CJ2+ with a maximum range of 1,613 nautical miles. Range on any trip depends on passengers, bags and weather.
How many passengers does the Citation CJ2 carry?
Cessna listed the CJ2+ with seats for 8 passengers. Individual aircraft may be configured differently.
Is the Citation CJ2 still in production?
No. Cessna built the CJ2 and CJ2+ from 2000 until January 2016.