Cessna Citation X and Citation X+ Private Jet Charter
8-9 Passengers
82 Baggage Capacity
525 Airspeed
3,460 Range
5.6 Cabin Width
5.8 Cabin Height
25.2 Cabin Length
Enclosed Lavatory Style
The Cessna Citation X and Citation X+ are the fastest civilian aircraft available for private charter. The Citation X holds the FAA type certificate for the highest cruise speed of any civil aircraft, Mach 0.92, and the X+, certified in 2014, pushes that to Mach 0.935. No other business jet in production or in the charter fleet cruises faster. On a New York to Los Angeles transcontinental, the Citation X+ arrives roughly 45 minutes ahead of a Challenger 350 flying the same route. On a coast-to-coast schedule where that margin changes the day, no other aircraft in the super-midsize category competes.
JetOptions clients charter the Citation X and X+ when speed is the priority: same-day transcontinental meetings, tight event schedules, and time-sensitive executive travel where the fastest possible transit is the brief. The tradeoff is cabin width, at 5.6 ft the Citation X is narrower than the Challenger 350, and for groups where cabin comfort over a 5-hour flight matters more than transit time, JetOptions will say so and present the Challenger as the alternative.
| Citation X | Citation X+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 8 (typical) / 12 (maximum) | Up to 8 (typical) / 12 (maximum) |
| Nonstop Range | 3,242 nm | 3,460 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed | Mach 0.92 / 528 KTAS | Mach 0.935 / 536 KTAS |
| Long-Range Cruise Speed | Mach 0.88 | Mach 0.88 |
| Cabin Length (usable) | 17.3 ft | 17.3 ft |
| Cabin Width | 5.6 ft | 5.6 ft |
| Cabin Height | 5.7 ft | 5.7 ft |
| Baggage Volume | 82 ft³ | 82 ft³ |
| Pressurization Altitude Equivalent | 6,000 ft | 6,000 ft |
| Takeoff Distance (MTOW) | 5,900 ft | 5,900 ft (approx) |
| Max Cruise Altitude | 51,000 ft | 51,000 ft |
| Engines | 2x GE CF34-3B1 | 2x GE CF34-3B1 (upgraded configuration) |
| Avionics | Honeywell Primus 2000 | Garmin G5000 (updated) |
| Key Differentiator | FAA-certified fastest civil aircraft at time of certification | Winglets, updated avionics, extended range, Mach 0.935 certification |
The Citation X+ is the current production standard and the preferred variant where available. The X remains widely available in the charter fleet and is functionally identical on most domestic routes. JetOptions will note which variant is on offer at time of booking and flag any meaningful differences for the specific itinerary.
| Choose the Citation X or X+ If... | Consider an Alternative If... |
|---|---|
| Speed is the priority: no other super-midsize jet gets you there faster | Cabin width for a group of 8 to 10 matters more than transit time (consider the Challenger 350 or 3500) |
| You are flying transcontinental US and 30 to 45 minutes of saved time changes the day | Your route exceeds 3,460 nm nonstop (consider the G550 or Global 6000) |
| Your group is 4 to 8 passengers and comfort in a narrower cabin is acceptable for the mission length | Lie-flat beds are required for an overnight crossing (consider a heavy jet) |
| Same-day business travel where arriving 40 minutes earlier than any other option justifies the choice | Your group exceeds 8 passengers in practice, the 12-seat max is achievable but the cabin is narrow at full capacity |
The Citation X and X+ cabin measures 17.3 ft in usable length, 5.6 ft in width, and 5.7 ft in height. It is a stand-up cabin for passengers up to approximately 5 ft 7 in. The standard configuration seats 8 passengers in a club-four forward and a club-four aft arrangement, with a refreshment centre and credenza at the rear. A 12-seat configuration is available on some operator setups, though at full capacity the cabin is noticeably narrow, JetOptions recommends the Citation X for groups up to 8 where speed is the priority, and the Challenger 350 for larger groups.
The cabin is purpose-built for efficient transit, not extended living. There is a single aft lavatory with a privacy door on most configurations. Baggage is stowed in a rear compartment with 82 ft³ of capacity, adequate for 6 to 8 standard suitcases depending on bag size.
Most chartered Citation X and X+ aircraft are equipped with Ka-band or Ku-band Wi-Fi. The X+ fleet, being newer production, has a higher proportion of operators with upgraded connectivity including Starlink on select aircraft. Power outlets and USB ports are available at seat stations on virtually all operators. Entertainment screens and Bluetooth audio are standard on most configurations.
For executives who need confirmed video call capability, JetOptions specifies the connectivity standard per aircraft at time of booking.
The Citation X and X+ carry a rear refreshment centre with coffee maker, microwave, and refrigerated storage. The galley footprint is compact relative to wider-body super-midsize platforms, but fully functional for meals, snacks, and beverages on routes up to 6 hours.
JetOptions coordinates catering for every Citation X charter: dietary requirements, custom menus, wine and beverage selection, and pre-loaded provisions. Catering briefs are collected at time of booking.
JetOptions and its vetted operators provide the same discretion standards across all fleet categories:
The typical charter rate for a Citation X is $6,500 to $8,500 USD per flight hour. The Citation X+ commands a modest premium at $7,000 to $9,000 per flight hour, reflecting its newer production, updated avionics, winglets, and Mach 0.935 certification. Rates vary based on operator, aircraft age, departure region, and seasonal demand.
On a New York to LA transcontinental, the Citation X+ arrives roughly 40 to 45 minutes faster than a Challenger 350 at a broadly similar hourly rate. For time-driven bookings, the Citation X+ frequently represents better value per hour of travel time saved despite the comparable rate.
The following are representative all-in charter cost estimates based on standard crew, direct routing, and baseline catering. Actual quotes reflect exact routing, availability, and operator selection.
| Route | Airports | Flight Time | Typical All-In Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York to LA | TEB to VNY | 4.5 hrs | $35,000 to $48,000 | ~40 min faster than Challenger 350 on same route |
| LA to New York | VNY to TEB | 4.5 hrs | $35,000 to $48,000 | Transcontinental nonstop |
| New York to Miami | TEB to OPF | 2.5 hrs | $18,000 to $26,000 | Standard crew, nonstop |
| Dallas to New York | DAL to TEB | 3.0 hrs | $22,000 to $32,000 | Nonstop |
| New York to Aspen | TEB to KASE | 4.0 hrs | $30,000 to $42,000 | Conditional on Aspen access; confirm per booking date |
| Miami to Cancun | OPF to MMUN | 1.5 hrs | $13,000 to $18,000 | Short Caribbean route |
A standard Citation X or X+ charter quote includes a two-pilot crew, fuel for direct routing, standard ground handling at departure and arrival, and one-time landing fees at each airport. Basic catering is included as part of the standard package.
Additional costs that may apply: positioning fees if the aircraft is not at the departure airport, international overflight permits, de-icing on winter routes, and upgrades such as premium catering and ground transport coordination. JetOptions confirms all positioning costs before quote acceptance, they are never added after agreement.
The Citation X and X+ require approximately 5,900 ft of runway at maximum takeoff weight. The following notes apply to commonly requested airports:
JetOptions confirms runway suitability for every specific route at time of booking. Airport access is affected by season, temperature, passenger weight, and fuel load.
The Citation X and X+ are built for speed-critical missions. These are the routes where the aircraft earns its reputation:
The Citation X and X+ occupy a specific position: the fastest option in the super-midsize category, with a narrower cabin than the Challenger 350. The comparison below covers the aircraft PAs most frequently evaluate alongside the Citation X.
| Citation X+ | Citation X | Challenger 350 | Challenger 3500 | Phenom 300E | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nonstop Range | 3,460 nm | 3,242 nm | 3,200 nm | 3,400 nm | 2,010 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed | Mach 0.935 | Mach 0.92 | Mach 0.83 | Mach 0.83 | Mach 0.80 |
| Cabin Width | 5.6 ft | 5.6 ft | 7.1 ft | 7.1 ft | 5.1 ft |
| Stand-Up Cabin | Partial (5 ft 7 in) | Partial (5 ft 7 in) | Yes (6 ft 1 in) | Yes (6 ft 1 in) | No |
| Max Passengers | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 | 9 |
| Typical Hourly Rate | $7,000–$9,000 | $6,500–$8,500 | $6,500–$8,500 | $7,500–$9,500 | $5,500–$7,500 |
| Best For | Fastest available; time-critical transcontinental | Same as X+; large in-service fleet | Widest cabin + best availability in segment | Updated 350 with improved range | Cost-efficient short to medium routes |
The most common decision a PA faces in this category is Citation X versus Challenger 350. The honest answer: if the principal needs to be somewhere 40 minutes faster and the cabin width trade-off is acceptable for the group size, the Citation X wins. If 8 to 10 passengers need a comfortable 5-hour cabin where everyone can move around, the Challenger 350 is the better fit. JetOptions will present both options with that framing and let the brief decide.
For routes where either aircraft exceeds the mission range, JetOptions recommends the Gulfstream G550 or Bombardier Global 6000. See flyjetoptions.com/fleet/gulfstream-g550 and flyjetoptions.com/fleet/global-6000.
For PAs coordinating a Citation X charter on behalf of a principal, or executives arranging a time-critical domestic flight, the following is the standard JetOptions process:
Tell us your route, travel date, group size, and any specific requirements. Your JetOptions Aviation Account Executive will respond within the hour with operator options, aircraft details, and pricing tailored to your itinerary.
No obligation. No pressure. JetOptions provides quotes alongside relevant alternatives so you can make the best decision for your trip.
JetOptions Private Jets is an ARGUS and Wyvern registered charter company with an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. We provide on-demand access to rigorously vetted Citation X and X+ operators, with every aircraft meeting or exceeding FAA safety standards and backed by $50 million to $250 million in liability coverage.
Is the Citation X really the fastest private jet available for charter?
Yes. The Citation X holds the FAA type certificate for the highest maximum operating speed of any civil aircraft certified at the time, Mach 0.92. The Citation X+, certified in 2014, extended that to Mach 0.935. No other business jet in the current charter fleet cruises faster. The Gulfstream G650 matches the X+ at Mach 0.925 maximum, but the G650 is a heavy jet in a different price category. Within the super-midsize segment, the Citation X+ has no competitor on speed.
How much faster is the Citation X+ than the Challenger 350 on a transcontinental route?
On a New York to Los Angeles route of approximately 2,450 nm, the Citation X+ at Mach 0.935 cruise completes the leg in approximately 4.5 hours. The Challenger 350 at Mach 0.83 cruise takes approximately 5.2 hours. The difference is roughly 40 to 45 minutes on a standard transcontinental, more with headwinds, slightly less with tailwinds. For executives whose schedule changes meaning around that margin, the Citation X+ consistently justifies the choice.
What is the difference between the Citation X and Citation X+?
The Citation X+ is a directly evolved variant of the X. Both use the same airframe and GE CF34 engines. The X+ adds winglets, which improve aerodynamic efficiency and extend range from 3,242 nm to 3,460 nm, an updated Garmin G5000 avionics suite replacing the Honeywell Primus 2000, and a refreshed cabin interior. Maximum cruise speed increases from Mach 0.92 to Mach 0.935. For most domestic US charter missions, both aircraft are equally effective, JetOptions will present whichever variant is available and note the differences where they matter for the specific trip.
Can the Citation X or X+ land at Aspen?
Both aircraft can access Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (KASE) under specific conditions. With a takeoff distance of approximately 5,900 ft at MTOW, runway access at Aspen depends on the season, temperature, density altitude, and weight. JetOptions confirms Aspen access per specific booking date and conditions. For groups where guaranteed Aspen access regardless of conditions is a requirement, JetOptions may recommend a lighter or shorter-runway aircraft for the Aspen leg.
How many bags does the Citation X hold?
The Citation X and X+ have 82 ft³ of baggage capacity, adequate for approximately 6 to 8 standard suitcases depending on bag size. This is less than the Challenger 350 (106 ft³) and worth flagging to PAs managing groups with significant luggage. JetOptions advises on baggage planning for specific configurations at time of booking.
Is the Citation X more expensive than the Challenger 350?
Hourly rates for the Citation X and Challenger 350 are broadly comparable, both typically fall in the $6,500 to $9,000 range depending on variant, operator, and route. The Citation X+ and Challenger 3500 are similarly priced. The more relevant comparison is value per flight: on a 5-hour transcontinental, the Citation X+ arrives ~40 minutes faster at roughly the same cost, which represents meaningful value for time-critical travel. For longer or more relaxed routes where cabin comfort for a larger group matters more, the Challenger 350’s wider cabin may be the better use of the same budget.
What is a positioning fee and will I be charged one?
A positioning fee applies when the nearest available Citation X or X+ is not at the departure airport. The aircraft flies empty to the departure point before the charter leg begins, standard practice across all on-demand charter operators. JetOptions confirms all positioning costs before quote acceptance; they are never added after agreement. For time-sensitive trips where cost certainty matters, ask for a guaranteed all-in quote.
How far in advance do I need to book?
For domestic US Citation X charters, 12 to 24 hours notice is typically sufficient. For international routes or multi-leg itineraries requiring overflight permits, 3 to 5 business days is recommended. Last-minute Citation X charters are handled regularly, the fleet is large and JetOptions maintains relationships with multiple operators. Contact the team directly for urgent availability.
What happens if the aircraft has a mechanical issue before departure?
JetOptions maintains operator relationships with multiple Citation X and X+ operators. In the event of a mechanical issue, JetOptions immediately sources an equivalent replacement aircraft. Clients are notified directly by their assigned Aviation Account Executive, who coordinates all rebooking, FBO changes, and ground transport adjustments. Available 24 hours a day throughout every trip.