PC-24 vs Citation CJ3 — Full Specifications
A complete side-by-side comparison of the Pilatus PC-24 and Cessna Citation CJ3. Both aircraft serve the Light Jet market, and understanding their differences is critical for making the right charter or acquisition decision.
| Specification | PC-24 | Citation CJ3 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Manufacturer | Pilatus Aircraft | Cessna Aircraft Company (Textron Aviation) |
| Cruise Speed | 440 kt | 416 kt |
| Range | 2,000 NM | 2,040 NM |
| Passengers | 10 | 9 |
| Registered Fleet | 21 | 141 |
| Charter Rate | $3,500–$5,500/hr | $3,500–$5,500/hr |
Speed & Performance
The PC-24 cruises 24 knots faster at 440 kt versus 416 kt. In practice, this difference is marginal on most routes.
At 440 kt, the PC-24 delivers solid cruise performance for its class. The Citation CJ3 at 416 kt performs well within its category benchmarks.
Range & Mission Capability
The Citation CJ3 reaches further at 2040 NM versus 2000 NM — 40 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 PC-24 seats 10 passengers versus 9 for the Citation CJ3. Both accommodate similar party sizes.
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 PC-24 or Citation CJ3.
Charter Cost Comparison
The PC-24 typically charters at $3,500–$5,500/hr while the Citation CJ3 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 PC-24 aircraft and Citation CJ3 aircraft are available through The Jet Finder's acquisition advisory service. Fleet sizes of 21 and 141 respectively provide adequate market liquidity.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the PC-24 if speed is your priority. It suits short regional missions with smaller groups.
Choose the Citation CJ3 if you need more range. It's ideal for efficient short-haul travel.
PC-24 vs Citation CJ3 — Frequently Asked Questions
12 questions comparing the PC-24 and Citation CJ3
The PC-24 cruises 24 knots faster at 440 kt versus 416 kt. In practice, this difference is marginal on most routes.
The Citation CJ3 reaches further at 2040 NM versus 2000 NM — 40 NM more range. Both cover similar distances nonstop.
The PC-24 seats 10 passengers versus 9 for the Citation CJ3. Both accommodate similar party sizes.
The PC-24 charters at approximately $3,500–$5,500/hr and the Citation CJ3 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 CJ3 is better suited for long-haul flights at 2040 NM versus 2000 NM for the PC-24.
The choice between a PC-24 and Citation CJ3 depends on your mission profile. If speed and range are priorities, each has its own advantages. Contact The Jet Finder for acquisition advisory to match the right aircraft to your specific needs.
The FAA registry shows 21 PC-24 aircraft and 141 Citation CJ3 aircraft currently registered. The Citation CJ3's larger fleet provides more options for charter and acquisition.
Both the PC-24 and Citation CJ3 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 PC-24 and Citation CJ3 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 PC-24's higher cruise speed shaves minutes off shorter routes. Airport compatibility and runway requirements may be more decisive than raw performance on short trips.
The Jet Finder provides acquisition advisory for both the PC-24 and Citation CJ3. With 162 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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