Cessna Citation Sovereign

“A long-range midsize jet with exceptional runway performance, the Citation Sovereign combines transcontinental capability with Cessna’s signature efficiency and comfort.”

Cessna Citation Sovereign super-midsize private jet parked on runway, 8–9 passenger aircraft with 5,300 km range
Cessna Citation Sovereign cabin interior with double-club seating for 8–9 passengers and enclosed lavatory

Introduction & Fun Facts

The Cessna Citation Sovereign, introduced in 2004, was designed to bridge the gap between midsize and super-midsize jets. Built on a slightly larger platform than the Citation Excel/XLS, the Sovereign offers extended range, upgraded avionics, and superior short-runway performance, making it one of the most versatile options in its class.

With a range of up to 5,300 km, it comfortably connects Europe to the Middle East and North Africa. The Sovereign is particularly known for its ability to operate from shorter runways, including airports like London City, where larger jets often cannot land.

Cabin & Comfort

  • Seats: 8–9 passengers

  • Cabin Dimensions: 7.70 m (25 ft 3 in) length × 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in) width × 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) height

  • Luggage Capacity: Fits up to 9 medium suitcases plus soft bags

  • Layout: Double-club configuration with fold-out tables

  • Lavatory: Fully enclosed rear lavatory

  • Flight Attendant: Sometimes available depending on operator and route

The Sovereign’s cabin is praised for its quiet ride and generous baggage capacity, making it highly practical for business and leisure travelers alike.

Catering

Onboard catering includes snacks, sandwiches, and beverages for shorter trips. For longer routes such as Geneva–Jeddah or Paris–Dubai, passengers can expect hot meals, fine wines, and premium catering options.

Performance & Specs

  • Range: up to 5,300 km (≈ 3,293 mi / 2,860 nm) — around 6 hours of flight

  • Cruising Speed: 820 km/h (≈ 510 mph / 443 knots)

  • Engines: 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PW306C turbofans

  • Take-off Distance: approx. 1,100 m (≈ 3,609 ft)

  • Maximum Ceiling: 14,326 m (47,000 ft)

Popular Routes & Prices

The Citation Sovereign is a proven workhorse for intercontinental trips within Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

  • Geneva – Jeddah: from 42,000 EUR

  • Zurich – Marrakech: from 25,000 EUR

  • Paris Le Bourget – Dubai: from 45,000 EUR

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

Why Choose the Citation Sovereign

  • Strong balance of range and efficiency

  • Excellent short-runway performance (ideal for smaller airports)

  • Spacious baggage hold for up to 9 suitcases

  • Trusted Cessna reliability in the long-range midsize category

Technical Data

  • Aircraft Type: Super-Midsize Jet

  • Manufacturer: Cessna (Textron Aviation)

  • Range: 5,300 km (3,293 mi / 2,860 nm)

  • Cruise Speed: 820 km/h (510 mph / 443 knots)

  • Seats: 8–9 passengers

  • Cabin Dimensions: 7.70 m × 1.68 m × 1.73 m (25 ft 3 in × 5 ft 6 in × 5 ft 8 in)

  • Luggage Capacity: 9 medium suitcases plus soft bags

  • Lavatory: Fully enclosed rear lavatory