Citation CJ3 vs Citation CJ4 — Full Specifications
A complete side-by-side comparison of the Cessna Citation CJ3 and Cessna Citation CJ4. Both aircraft serve the Light Jet market, and understanding their differences is critical for making the right charter or acquisition decision.
| Specification | Citation CJ3 | Citation CJ4 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Aircraft Company (Textron Aviation) | Cessna Aircraft Company (Textron Aviation) |
| Cruise Speed | 416 kt | 451 kt |
| Range | 2,040 NM | 2,165 NM |
| Passengers | 9 | 10 |
| Registered Fleet | 141 | 29 |
| Charter Rate | $3,500–$5,500/hr | $3,500–$5,500/hr |
Speed & Performance
The Citation CJ4 holds the speed advantage at 451 kt versus 416 kt — 35 knots faster. Expect noticeably shorter flight times.
At 416 kt, the Citation CJ3 delivers solid cruise performance for its class. The Citation CJ4 at 451 kt matches the demands of coast-to-coast and transatlantic routing.
Range & Mission Capability
The Citation CJ4 reaches further at 2165 NM versus 2040 NM — 125 NM more range. Both cover similar distances nonstop.
Both aircraft handle coast-to-coast US missions comfortably. For transoceanic flights, a fuel stop may be required depending on routing and payload.
Cabin & Passengers
The Citation CJ4 offers more cabin space with 10 seats versus 9. Both handle typical charter parties.
Cabin configuration, baggage capacity, and in-flight amenities vary by individual aircraft. Contact The Jet Finder for specific tail-level cabin details when chartering either the Citation CJ3 or Citation CJ4.
Charter Cost Comparison
The Citation CJ3 typically charters at $3,500–$5,500/hr while the Citation CJ4 runs $3,500–$5,500/hr. As direct competitors, pricing is often comparable — the deciding factor is usually availability, cabin condition, and operator reputation.
For acquisition, pre-owned Citation CJ3 aircraft and Citation CJ4 aircraft are available through The Jet Finder's acquisition advisory service. Fleet sizes of 141 and 29 respectively provide adequate market liquidity.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Citation CJ3 if its operating profile fits your mission. It suits short regional missions with smaller groups.
Choose the Citation CJ4 if speed matters most. It's ideal for efficient short-haul travel.
Citation CJ3 vs Citation CJ4 — Frequently Asked Questions
12 questions comparing the Citation CJ3 and Citation CJ4
The Citation CJ4 holds the speed advantage at 451 kt versus 416 kt — 35 knots faster. Expect noticeably shorter flight times.
The Citation CJ4 reaches further at 2165 NM versus 2040 NM — 125 NM more range. Both cover similar distances nonstop.
The Citation CJ4 offers more cabin space with 10 seats versus 9. Both handle typical charter parties.
The Citation CJ3 charters at approximately $3,500–$5,500/hr and the Citation CJ4 at approximately $3,500–$5,500/hr. Actual pricing varies by route, season, and operator. Contact The Jet Finder for a specific quote on either aircraft.
The Citation CJ4 is better suited for long-haul flights at 2165 NM versus 2040 NM for the Citation CJ3.
The choice between a Citation CJ3 and Citation CJ4 depends on your mission profile. If speed and range are priorities, the Citation CJ4 has the edge. Contact The Jet Finder for acquisition advisory to match the right aircraft to your specific needs.
The FAA registry shows 141 Citation CJ3 aircraft and 29 Citation CJ4 aircraft currently registered. The Citation CJ3's larger fleet means more charter availability and a stronger resale market.
Both the Citation CJ3 and Citation CJ4 are available for charter through The Jet Finder. We access 15,000+ aircraft worldwide with no membership required. Contact us to check same-day availability on either aircraft.
Both the Citation CJ3 and Citation CJ4 are classified as Light Jet aircraft, competing directly in the same market segment.
Operating costs depend on fuel burn, maintenance intervals, insurance, and crew requirements. As direct competitors in the Light Jet class, both have similar operating cost profiles. Contact The Jet Finder for detailed cost analysis.
For short missions under 1,000 NM, both aircraft perform well. The Citation CJ4's faster cruise offers a slight time advantage. Airport compatibility and runway requirements may be more decisive than raw performance on short trips.
The Jet Finder provides acquisition advisory for both the Citation CJ3 and Citation CJ4. With 170 combined aircraft in the registry, pre-owned options are available. Visit our acquisitions page or contact our team for current market inventory.
Charter or Acquire Either Aircraft
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