Special Charter Category – Citation III

Legacy Jet Spotlight: Cessna Citation III (CE-650)

The Cessna Citation III is part of the early generation of midsize business jets that helped shape the private aviation landscape in the 1980s and 1990s. Built by Cessna as the CE-650 series, this aircraft was designed for high-speed, efficient travel between major business cities. While no longer a mainstream option in today’s charter market, the Citation III remains available in select markets through JetOptions as part of our Legacy & Special Charter Jet category.

Though production ceased in the early 1990s, the Citation III left a lasting impression thanks to its aerodynamic design, lightweight structure, and impressive performance for its time. For clients interested in classic jet models or those with flexible travel needs, this aircraft may still offer value under the right circumstances.

Citation III Highlights

• Accommodates up to 8–9 passengers in standard configurations
• Pressurized cabin with a 5-foot height and 438 cubic feet of interior volume
• Generous 61 cubic feet of baggage space
• Quiet operation, meeting FAR Part 36 noise compliance standards
• Full enclosed lavatory and refreshment center

Despite its age, the cabin was thoughtfully designed, with soft lighting, ample window space, and ergonomic seating. While not as tech-forward as newer jets, the Citation III can still provide a comfortable and quiet experience for shorter to mid-range flights.

Performance Snapshot

This aircraft is powered by twin Honeywell TFE731-3B-100S engines and was engineered for performance. With a cruise speed of Mach 0.81 to 0.83 (approximately 468 knots), it offered one of the fastest profiles in its class during its peak years.

• Cruise Speed: Mach 0.81–0.83 (up to 468 knots)
• Range: 2,054 nautical miles (approximately 2,920 miles)
• Maximum Altitude: 43,000 feet
• Engines: 2 × Honeywell TFE731-3B-100S turbofans

The aircraft’s efficient aerodynamic profile, T-tail, and swept supercritical wings gave it impressive climb performance and stability at altitude—features still appreciated by legacy jet operators.

History and Design

The Citation III debuted in 1983 as a major leap forward in the Citation jet family. It was the first aircraft in the CE-650 series and helped Cessna establish itself in the midsize market alongside competitors like the Learjet 55 and Hawker 800. Although a stretched version was proposed, the focus remained on enhancing speed, range, and passenger comfort within the original airframe.

The jet’s flight deck includes a Sperry/Honeywell SPZ-650 autopilot system, Honeywell Primus 300L weather radar, and Collins Pro Line II avionics—considered top-of-the-line at the time. For charter clients today, this means dependable legacy avionics and flight systems that are still used in regulated operations.

Special Charter Availability

JetOptions includes the Citation III as part of our Legacy & Special Charter Fleet, which is available only on a case-by-case basis. This jet is no longer part of our primary charter fleet, and we do not recommend it for time-sensitive business missions or long-range international travel. However, in select locations and for specific travel scenarios, we may be able to source a Citation III for special requests.

If you’re looking for a more modern alternative with similar cabin capacity and longer range, we recommend considering the:

• Learjet 75 – A high-speed midsize jet with modern interiors
• Phenom 300 – A top-performing light jet with near midsize comfort
• Citation XLS – A best-selling midsize charter jet with greater availability

For clients with a historical interest in legacy jets or seeking aircraft for one-off regional charters, the Citation III offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of midsize private aviation.