Cessna Citation CJ / CJ1

“Compact, reliable, and cost-efficient. The Citation CJ1 is the perfect entry-level jet for short European business or leisure trips, offering speed and comfort for up to five passengers.”

Cessna Citation CJ1 very light jet parked on runway, compact private jet for short European flights
Cessna Citation CJ1 cabin with 5-passenger seating in club layout and fold-out table

Introduction & Fun Facts

The Cessna Citation CJ (later known as the CJ1) was introduced in the early 1990s as a replacement for the Citation I, offering more advanced avionics, better performance, and improved fuel efficiency. Part of the successful CitationJet family, the CJ1 quickly became a favorite among charter operators thanks to its low operating costs and ability to access smaller airports. Certified for single-pilot operations, it remains one of the most economical options for private jet travel within Europe.

Cabin & Comfort

  • Seats: 5 passengers

  • Cabin Dimensions: 3.35 m (11 ft) length × 1.47 m (4 ft 10 in) width × 1.45 m (4 ft 9 in) height

  • Luggage Capacity: Fits up to 4 medium suitcases plus small carry-ons

  • Layout: Club seating with fold-out tables

  • Lavatory: Compact, non-enclosed (belted seat)

  • Flight Attendant: Not included

The Citation CJ1 cabin is compact yet functional, providing a practical environment for regional trips. Large windows and quiet engines contribute to passenger comfort despite its size.

Catering

Catering is light and typically includes snacks, sandwiches, fruit, and beverages such as soft drinks, coffee, tea, or champagne on request. Hot meals are generally not provided due to limited galley space.

Performance & Specs

  • Range: up to 2,400 km (≈ 1,490 mi / 1,295 nm) — around 3.5 hours of flight

  • Cruising Speed: 720 km/h (≈ 447 mph / 389 knots)

  • Engines: 2 × Williams FJ44-1A turbofans

  • Take-off Distance: approx. 990 m (≈ 3,250 ft)

  • Maximum Ceiling: 12,500 m (41,000 ft)

Popular Routes & Prices in Europe

The CJ1 is ideal for short-haul city pairs in Europe, where efficiency and speed are the priority.

  • Geneva – Berlin Brandenburg: from 5,500 EUR

  • Zurich – Vienna: from 4,800 EUR

  • Nice Côte d’Azur – Geneva: from 4,200 EUR

Prices are indicative, subject to aircraft positioning, seasonality, and request preparation time.

Why Choose the Citation CJ / CJ1

  • Cost-effective private jet option for short routes

  • Certified for single-pilot operation

  • Reliable and widely available across Europe

  • Access to smaller regional airports

Technical Data

  • Aircraft Type: Very Light Jet (VLJ)

  • Manufacturer: Cessna (Textron Aviation)

  • Range: 2,400 km (1,490 mi / 1,295 nm)

  • Cruise Speed: 720 km/h (447 mph / 389 knots)

  • Seats: 5 passengers

  • Cabin Dimensions: 3.35 m × 1.47 m × 1.45 m (11 ft × 4 ft 10 in × 4 ft 9 in)

  • Luggage Capacity: 4 medium suitcases plus small carry-ons

  • Lavatory: Compact, non-enclosed rear seat