Posted on May 7th, 2024
Cessna holds the distinction of having sold more airplanes than any other company in history. After examining their Citation family of jets, it’s clear why they have achieved this success. The company has built a reputation for combining high performance with safety and comfort, making its planes popular with pilots and passengers. The Cessna Citation CJ3 stands out as one of their top models among their impressive fleet.
The CJ3 is part of Cessna’s Citation family of business jets, which the company began producing in 1991. Also known as Model 525B, this aircraft is a longer version of the CJ2 (Model 525A). The entire Cessna Citation family includes many more models, tracing its roots back to 1972 when the original Citation I (Model 500) was released. Since then, Cessna has manufactured nearly 40 different versions, highlighting the popularity of this family of jets.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 features the following specifications:
The last detail is noteworthy: the Cessna Citation CJ3 is an extended version of the CJ2. Passengers benefit from more space for both themselves and their luggage. However, what makes the CJ3 particularly popular among pilots is its twin Williams FJ44-3A engines. These powerful engines enable the plane to take off from various well-known airports, such as New York’s LaGuardia and JFK, which are often accessible to other private jets in its class.
Many pilots have even reported reaching the CJ3’s service ceiling of 45,000 feet depending on the load. This extra power also ensures passengers enjoy a comfortable ride, even in adverse weather conditions. In locations like Vail and Aspen, CO, where heavy snowfall can trouble other jets, pilots can safely take off and land in the Citation CJ3 without issue.
Recently, a Cessna Citation CJ3, enhanced with active winglets designed by Tamarack Aerospace Group, accomplished an impressive journey from Paris, Texas, to Paris, France, requiring only one refueling stop.
The first leg of the flight covered a significant distance, lasting 5 hours and 42 minutes, during which the jet flew over the vast expanse of North America before touching down in St. John’s, Newfoundland. After a brief stop for refueling and crew rest, the aircraft continued its journey, completing the second leg in just 5 hours and 45 minutes. This portion of the flight took the jet across the Atlantic Ocean, showcasing its capability to handle long-haul flights with efficiency.
Notably, the entire trip was conducted at maximum load, demonstrating the aircraft’s robust performance under challenging conditions. While this journey may not reflect the typical performance metrics for an average CJ3 model, it undeniably highlights the exceptional engineering and manufacturing quality that defines these jets, proving their capability for both comfort and performance over long distances.
Passengers often prefer the Cessna Citation CJ3 primarily for its remarkable interior design and comfort features. This model is an extended jet, allowing for an impressive cabin space that measures 20 feet and 10 inches in length. The seating arrangement includes six seats that can be reconfigured to accommodate up to eight passengers comfortably. These long-legged seats, designed for maximum comfort, take full advantage of the generous space available in the cabin.
The seating is arranged in a club-style configuration, with three seats on each side of a central aisle, promoting a friendly atmosphere for those on board. The aisle itself is thoughtfully designed; it sits slightly lower than the seats, enhancing the sense of openness within the cabin. This design choice not only contributes to a more spacious feel but also makes it easier for passengers to move around, as the aisle height reaches an accommodating 57 inches.
Natural light floods the cabin through 14 elegantly placed elliptical windows, creating a bright and airy environment. Additionally, an indirect LED lighting system is installed, ensuring exceptional visibility regardless of the time of day or night.
To enhance passenger comfort further, the Cessna Citation CJ3 boasts an advanced heating and cooling system. The improved compressor allows for rapid adjustments to temperature preferences, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a comfortable atmosphere throughout the flight. Last but not least, the jet is equipped with multiple baggage compartments, providing a total of CJ3 65 cubic feet of storage space for personal belongings and luggage.
If you’re considering light jet charter alternatives, the Citation CJ3 is a top-tier choice within Cessna’s remarkable lineup of aircraft. Its blend of performance, comfort, and efficiency makes it a standout option that should not be overlooked.
Everyone should enjoy a trip in the Cessna Citation CJ3 at some point. Aside from its operational efficiency, this light business jet offers passengers a comfortable ride with no small list of luxury accommodations. Be forewarned, though, that after just one flight, you may never want to fly in any other craft.
Contact JetOptions Private Jets for more on chartering Cessna aircraft today.