What is the Citation CJ4 Jet?
The Citation CJ4 (Model 525C) is a light business jet and the longest version of the CitationJet line, which runs from the M2 through the CJ3 and CJ4. Cessna launched it at the October 2006 NBAA convention. Its cabin is 21 inches longer than the CJ3's, and its moderately swept wing is derived from the larger Citation Sovereign.
Two Williams FJ44-4A turbofans power the aircraft. Like the rest of the CitationJet family, it is certified for single-pilot operations.
History and versions
- October 2006: Cessna launches the CJ4.
- May 5, 2008: First flight, from McConnell Air Force Base in Wichita, Kansas.
- 2010: First deliveries.
- March 2021: The CJ4 Gen2 enters service with interior, avionics and autothrottle upgrades.
- April 2023: The 400th CJ4 is delivered.
- Today: The CJ4 Gen3 is the current model, with the Garmin G3000 PRIME flight deck and Garmin Emergency Autoland.
When you charter "a CJ4", the aircraft may be an original CJ4, a Gen2 or a Gen3. Ask which one if the cockpit or interior generation matters to you.
Overview of Design and Features of Citation CJ4 Jet
| Specification | Citation CJ4 |
|---|---|
| Maximum range | 2,165 nm |
| Maximum cruise speed | 451 ktas |
| Ceiling | 45,000 ft |
| Maximum climb rate | 3,854 fpm |
| Takeoff distance | 3,410 ft |
| Landing distance | 2,940 ft |
| Length / wingspan / height | 53 ft 4 in / 50 ft 10 in / 15 ft 5 in |
| Cabin length | 17 ft 4 in |
| Cabin height / width | 57 in / 58 in |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 17,110 lb |
| Maximum payload | 2,220 lb |
| Fuel capacity | 5,828 lb |
| Engines | 2 x Williams FJ44-4A, 3,621 lb thrust each |
| Maximum occupants | 10 (Textron) |
The range, speed and occupant figures are Textron's for the CJ4 Gen3. The remaining figures are published specifications for the CJ4.
Range and Max Cruise Speed
The CJ4 has the longest range in the CitationJet family, at 2,165 nm, and a maximum cruise speed of 451 ktas. Treat the maximum range as a best case. With a full cabin and bags, plan on less, and ask for a route-specific estimate before you count on a long nonstop leg.
Takeoff and Landing Performance
Published figures put the CJ4's takeoff distance at 3,410 ft and its landing distance at 2,940 ft. That opens up many smaller regional and general aviation airports that are closer to where you are going than a major airline hub.
Layout and Seating Capacity
The cabin is 17 ft 4 in long, 57 in high and 58 in wide. The CJ4 seats up to nine passengers in the cabin, plus one in the cockpit when it is flown by a single pilot.
Cabin Amenities
Textron offers several interior palettes on the CJ4 Gen3, with options such as marble countertops and seat quilting. The Gen3 also has an externally serviceable lavatory and single-point refueling.
Enhanced Safety Features
The CJ4 Gen3 adds Garmin Emergency Autoland, which can land the aircraft automatically in an emergency. The Gen2 introduced autothrottles.
In 2011, the FAA temporarily grounded the CJ4 and issued an airworthiness directive after fires in the original lithium-ion battery equipment.
Pilot Requirements and Training
The CJ4 is certified for single-pilot operations. Charter operators may fly it with one or two pilots, depending on their operating rules.
Maintenance Considerations and Costs
Ownership and charter costs depend on the aircraft's age, how many hours it flies, where it is based and who operates it. For a charter, the main factors are the route, flight time, positioning and date.
Chartering a Citation CJ4 with BLADE
BLADE arranges private jet charters through BLADE Anywhere, including light jets such as the Citation CJ4. Share your dates, airports and group size, and BLADE books the aircraft with a licensed operator. All US flights are operated by DOT/FAA-licensed direct air carriers. For what drives the price, see private jet cost.
FAQs about What Is An Citation Cj4 Jet?
What is the Citation CJ4 jet?
The Citation CJ4 is a light business jet made by Textron Aviation under the Cessna brand. It is the largest model in the CitationJet family.
What makes the Citation CJ4 different from other Citation models?
It has the longest cabin and longest range in the CitationJet line, and a moderately swept wing derived from the Citation Sovereign.
How many passengers can the Citation CJ4 carry?
Up to nine in the cabin, plus one in the cockpit with a single pilot. Textron lists 10 maximum occupants.
What is the range and speed of the Citation CJ4?
Textron lists a maximum range of 2,165 nm and a maximum cruise speed of 451 ktas.
Can the Citation CJ4 be flown by one pilot?
Yes. The CJ4 is certified for single-pilot operations.
Where can I find official technical information for the Citation CJ4 jet?
Textron Aviation publishes current specifications and brochures for the CJ4 Gen3 on its Cessna website.