Definition and Brief History
The Citation Mustang was the entry-level jet in Cessna's Citation family, a very light jet built for short regional trips with a small group. Cessna launched the Model 510 at the 2002 NBAA convention, and it first flew on April 23, 2005.
The FAA granted full type certification on September 8, 2006, and approved the jet for flight into known icing conditions on November 9, 2006. Cessna delivered the first production Mustang on November 22, 2006. Production ended in May 2017 after 479 aircraft had been built at Cessna's facility in Independence, Kansas.
Types and Models
There is one basic Mustang model. In 2010, Cessna added an enhanced edition called the High Sierra, with higher-quality cabin furnishings and upgraded avionics, including synthetic vision.
Engine and Thrust Performance
Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW615F turbofans power the Mustang, each rated at 1,460 pounds of thrust. They are mounted in pods on the rear fuselage. The maximum takeoff weight is 8,645 pounds.
Avionics and Cockpit Controls
The Mustang uses Garmin G1000 avionics. The cockpit has two seats, and the jet is approved for single-pilot operation, like many other light jets.
Performance and Range
| Specification | Citation Mustang |
|---|---|
| Engines | 2 x P&WC PW615F, 1,460 lbf thrust each |
| Range | 1,150 nm |
| Maximum cruise speed | 340 ktas |
| Maximum altitude | 41,000 ft |
| Passengers | 4 seats in club layout (5 maximum certified) |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 8,645 lb |
With 1,150 nautical miles of range, the Mustang fits regional trips rather than coast-to-coast flights. Passengers, bags, weather and winds all change the nonstop range on the day, so the operator confirms each route.
Cost Effectiveness
The Mustang was designed as an entry-level jet. In 2015, its unit cost was $3.35 million. For charter travelers, a very light jet is usually among the lower-cost jet options because it is small and carries fewer people.
Time-Saving and Flexibility
A small jet can use many smaller airports, so you can often land closer to where you are going than you would on an airline. On a private charter you also set the departure time.
Safety Standards and Regulations
The Mustang was certified by the FAA in 2006, including approval for flight into known icing conditions. In the United States, every BLADE charter is operated by a DOT and FAA licensed carrier.
Factors to Consider Before Investing
- Cabin size. The cabin has four passenger seats in the aft cabin and a toilet. It suits short trips with a small group.
- Range. At 1,150 nautical miles, longer trips may need a fuel stop.
- Availability. With 479 built and production over, every Mustang today is pre-owned.
Comparison with Other Private Jets
Cessna ended Mustang production because many buyers moved to its own Citation M2. The M2 is faster and larger but operates from similar-length runways. If you need more seats or range than the Mustang offers, a larger light jet is the usual step up.
Future Trends and Developments
The Mustang is out of production, so there are no new models planned. In 2019, Cessna tested a technology demonstrator that used a modified Mustang fuselage with a single turboprop engine, but the company did not confirm plans to build it.
Chartering a Citation Mustang with BLADE
BLADE arranges private jet charters, including light jets, through licensed operators. All BLADE flights in the United States are operated by FAA-licensed carriers. Share your route, date and group size, and compare the aircraft available.
FAQs about What Is An Citation Mustang Jet?
What is an Entry Level Business Jet?
An entry-level business jet is the smallest and least expensive type of business jet. It usually seats four or five passengers and is designed for short regional trips. The Mustang was Cessna's entry-level jet until the Citation M2 took that role.
What is a Citation Mustang Jet?
It is a very light jet built by Cessna from 2006 to 2017, with four passenger seats and two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW615F engines.
What are the key features of the Citation Mustang Jet?
Single-pilot certification, Garmin G1000 avionics, a club cabin with four passenger seats and a toilet, and approval for flight into known icing.
What is the maximum range of the Citation Mustang Jet?
1,150 nautical miles.
What is the cost of a Citation Mustang Jet?
In 2015, a new Mustang cost $3.35 million. Production has ended, so prices today depend on the used market.
What are the benefits of owning a Citation Mustang Jet?
Low acquisition cost for a jet, single-pilot operation and access to smaller airports. Chartering gives you the same benefits without the cost of ownership.