N656SM Aircraft Overview
Performance Profile
N656SM operates in the light jet segment where speed, efficiency, and airport access converge. The Cessna Citation CJ3 covers 2,040 nautical miles at 416 knots. 2x Williams FJ44-3A at 2,780 lbs each keep hourly operating costs among the lowest in the jet category.
Mission Profile
The light jet segment serves owner-operators, small corporate flight departments, and charter operators flying regional demand. N656SM's Cessna Citation CJ3 carries 9 passengers at 15.7 ft by 4.8 ft. The cabin is purpose-built for missions under three hours.
Charter Authorization
N656SM's operator holds Part 135 authorization covering domestic charter. The Cessna Citation CJ3's efficiency makes it the right tool for missions where speed is required but heavy-jet capacity is not.
Insider Note
The Cessna Citation CJ3 segment offers the lowest entry point for jet ownership. Pre-owned Cessna Citation CJ3 airframes trade actively, with pricing driven by engine program status, avionics generation, and total time. N656SM's 2006 build year places it in a specific tier of the market.
N656SM Aircraft Intelligence
Cross-referenced from FAA Registry, Part 135 operator database, and live ADS-B telemetry.
Inquire About N656SM
Contact us to see if this aircraft is available for a charter flight or acquisition that fits your needs. If the aircraft is not available or does not work for you, we operate private aircraft as well and have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.
For more information contact us and one of our private aviation advisers will be happy to assist you.
Contact UsDetailed Specifications
Aircraft Identity
| Registration | N656SM |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cessna |
| Model | Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3) |
| Part 135 Operator | PCJ Aviation LLC |
| Category | Light Jet |
| Cabin Class | — |
| Year Built | 2006 |
| Configuration | Executive/6 |
| Home Base | Oakland International Airport, Oakland, California |
| Home Airport | KOAK |
| Interior Refurbished | 2014 |
| Exterior Refurbished | 2006 |
Performance & Capabilities
| Engine Type | 2x Williams FJ44-3A |
|---|---|
| Engine Thrust | 2,780 lbs |
| Max Cruise Speed | 416 knots |
| Maximum Range | 2040 nautical miles |
| Service Ceiling | 45000 feet |
| Takeoff Distance | 3,180 ft |
| Passenger Capacity | 9 passengers |
| Baggage Volume | 66 cu ft |
| Avionics | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 |
| IFR Certified | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions About N656SM
16 questions answered about this aircraft and the Cessna Citation CJ3
N656SM is a 2006 Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3) registered in the United States. It carries serial number on file with the FAA and is classified as a business jet in the private aviation market. The aircraft has maintained continuous airworthiness for 11 years.
N656SM is a Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3). The Cessna Citation CJ3 is a business jet platform with a range of 2,000 nautical miles. Cessna has a well-established support network for this airframe.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 is powered by 2x Williams FJ44-3A, each producing 2,780 lbs. Engine maintenance programs from the manufacturer spread overhaul costs across flight hours, making operating expenses predictable. The powerplant supports a service ceiling of 45,000 feet.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 has a maximum cruise speed of 416 knots. Long-range cruise is 380 kts. At these speeds, a three-hour flight covers approximately 1248 nautical miles, connecting most major city pairs within its range envelope.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3) has an approximate range of 2,040 nautical miles. This translates to nonstop coverage of coast-to-coast routes such as New York to Los Angeles, or Miami to Seattle. At a cruise speed of approximately 416 knots, total block times remain competitive for the category.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 seats up to 9 passengers in a typical charter configuration. The cabin measures 15.7 ft long, 4.8 ft wide, and 4.8 ft tall. The cabin accommodates productive work or rest on flights of typical duration.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 has a maximum service ceiling of 45,000 feet (FL450). At this altitude, the aircraft operates above commercial traffic and most weather systems. The pressurization system maintains a cabin altitude of approximately 5,500-6,500 feet at maximum cruise altitude, reducing passenger fatigue on long flights.
Yes. The Cessna Citation CJ3 is fully certified for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations. It is equipped with Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics avionics, supporting precision approaches, RNAV/GPS navigation, FANS/CPDLC for oceanic operations, and ADS-B Out compliance. All Part 135 charter operations require two instrument-rated pilots.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 cabin measures 15.7 ft long, 4.8 ft wide, and 4.8 ft tall. Most passengers can stand upright in the center aisle. Baggage capacity is 66 cu ft.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 has 66 cu ft of baggage volume in an externally accessible, heated and pressurized compartment. This accommodates 9+ full-size suitcases or a combination of luggage, garment bags, and sporting equipment. The compartment does not intrude on cabin space.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 is equipped with Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics. This integrated flight deck provides enhanced situational awareness, synthetic vision, TCAS II, and weather radar. The system supports single-crew operations where type-certified, though Part 135 charter flights require two pilots.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 was produced from 2004-2014. The type was succeeded by the CJ3+. This specific aircraft (N656SM) was manufactured in 2006.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 competes in the Light Jet segment against aircraft with similar range and cabin specifications. Key differentiators include a cruise speed of 416 knots, range of 2,040 nm, and a 4.8 ft-foot-wide cabin. Selection between competing types depends on mission profile, operator availability, and total trip cost.
Charter rates for the Cessna Citation CJ3 typically range from $2,200-$3,000 per flight hour, depending on operator, region, and seasonal demand. This includes crew, fuel at current Jet-A prices, and standard handling. Additional costs may include FBO fees, overnight crew expenses, international handling, and repositioning if the aircraft is not based at the departure airport.
Yes. N656SM holds an active Part 135 certificate under PCJ Aviation LLC, meaning it is legally authorized for on-demand charter operations. Contact The Jet Finder to check current availability and schedule a flight.
Contact us for acquisition information about N656SM. Our aviation advisors can provide market valuation and availability details.
From Your First Mission to Your Final Acquisition
Contact us to see if this aircraft is available for a charter flight or acquisition. If this aircraft is not available, we operate private aircraft and have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.