The Cessna Citation 2 is a twin-engine business jet built from 1978 to 1985

The Cessna Citation 2 is a mid-size twin-engine jet designed for business travel and charter operations. Manufactured by Cessna Aircraft Company, it first flew in 1978 and remained in production until 1985, with a total of 525 aircraft built. The Citation 2 sits between smaller single-engine jets and larger cabin-class aircraft, making it a practical choice for operators who needed more range and payload than light jets but wanted lower operating costs than heavy jets.

The aircraft is powered by two Pratt & Whitney JT15D-1 turbofan engines, each producing 2,200 pounds of thrust. This twin-engine design gives the Citation 2 better performance at high altitudes and in hot-weather conditions compared to single-engine alternatives, while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency for its class. The cabin typically seats six to eight passengers depending on configuration, with a pressurized interior that allows the aircraft to cruise at altitudes up to 43,000 feet.

Key Takeaways

  • The Citation 2 was built between 1978 and 1985 and remains one of the most common mid-size business jets in the used aircraft market.
  • The aircraft has a maximum range of approximately 1,900 nautical miles and can cruise at speeds around 400 knots, making it suitable for cross-country flights.
  • Operating costs for a Citation 2 typically run between $3,000 and $4,500 per flight hour, including fuel, maintenance, and crew expenses.
  • The Citation 2 requires a type rating from the FAA for pilots, meaning flight training specific to this aircraft model is mandatory before operating it.

Performance and Range Specifications

The Citation 2 has a maximum cruise speed of approximately 400 knots (460 miles per hour) at altitude, though typical cruise speeds are closer to 380 knots for fuel efficiency. The aircraft can climb to its service ceiling of 43,000 feet, which allows it to fly above most weather and commercial air traffic. Maximum range with standard fuel tanks is around 1,900 nautical miles, though this varies based on payload, weather conditions, and flight profile.

Useful load—the weight of fuel, passengers, cargo, and crew the aircraft can carry—typically ranges from 3,200 to 3,500 pounds depending on the specific aircraft and any modifications. This means a Citation 2 can carry six passengers plus crew with reasonable fuel reserves for a 1,000-nautical-mile flight, or fewer passengers with maximum fuel for longer distances. Runway requirements are modest: the Citation 2 can take off from a 4,000-foot runway at sea level under normal conditions and land in roughly 2,500 feet.

Cabin Layout and Comfort Features

The Citation 2 cabin is 20 feet long, 4 feet 9 inches wide, and 4 feet 9 inches tall, providing a comfortable but not spacious environment for business travel. The pressurized cabin maintains a cabin altitude of 8,000 feet when the aircraft is at its service ceiling, reducing passenger fatigue on longer flights. Most Citation 2s are configured with six to eight seats arranged in a club configuration, where passengers face each other across a small table—a common layout for business jets of that era.

The cabin includes a small galley for beverages and light snacks, a lavatory, and storage compartments for luggage. Unlike larger cabin-class jets, the Citation 2 does not have a separate crew rest area or sleeping berths. The aircraft is unpressurized on the ground and during taxi, so passengers board and exit through a door on the left side of the fuselage. Noise levels inside the cabin are moderate for a jet of its size, though not as quiet as newer aircraft with advanced sound-dampening materials.

Maintenance and Inspection Requirements

The Citation 2 follows FAA Part 91 maintenance rules if operated under Part 91 (general aviation), or Part 135 rules if operated commercially as a charter aircraft. Part 91 operators must perform an annual inspection and comply with manufacturer-recommended maintenance intervals. Part 135 operators face more frequent inspections: a 100-hour inspection every 100 flight hours, plus annual inspections and progressive maintenance programs.

Engine overhaul is a significant cost item. The Pratt & Whitney JT15D engines typically require overhaul every 3,500 to 5,000 flight hours, depending on operating conditions and maintenance history. A complete engine overhaul can cost $400,000 to $600,000 per engine. Routine maintenance items like oil changes, filter replacements, and system inspections occur at regular intervals and are less expensive but add up over time. Many Citation 2 operators budget $1,000 to $1,500 per flight hour for all maintenance, reserves, and engine overhaul costs.

Pilot Training and Certification

Operating a Citation 2 requires an FAA commercial pilot certificate with a multi-engine rating and a type rating specific to the Citation 2. The type rating is a formal certification that proves a pilot has completed training on the aircraft's systems, performance, and emergency procedures. Type rating training typically takes 20 to 30 hours of instruction spread over two to three weeks, with both classroom and flight training components.

The training covers the aircraft's avionics, pressurization system, engine management, emergency procedures, and handling characteristics. Pilots must pass a written exam and a practical test (called a checkride) administered by an FAA examiner. After initial type rating, pilots must complete recurrent training every 24 months to maintain currency. Many operators require their pilots to complete recurrent training annually for safety reasons, even though the FAA minimum is every two years.

Used Market and Ownership Considerations

Citation 2 aircraft are widely available in the used market because 525 were built and many remain in service. Prices for used Citation 2s vary significantly based on total flight hours, maintenance history, avionics upgrades, and interior condition. Aircraft with lower total time and recent major overhauls command higher prices, while older examples with high time and deferred maintenance are less expensive but may require significant investment to bring up to standard.

Ownership of a Citation 2 involves fixed costs (hangar, insurance, crew salaries if applicable) and variable costs (fuel, maintenance, crew training). Total annual ownership costs for a Citation 2 operated 200 to 300 hours per year typically range from $150,000 to $250,000, depending on the specific aircraft condition and how intensively it is flown. Many owners choose to offset these costs by chartering the aircraft when not in personal use, though this requires additional regulatory compliance and insurance.

Avionics and Technology Upgrades

Original Citation 2 aircraft were equipped with analog instruments and basic navigation systems typical of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Many owners have upgraded their aircraft with modern glass cockpits—integrated digital displays that replace traditional round-dial instruments. Popular upgrades include Garmin G1000 NXi systems, which provide integrated flight management, navigation, and engine monitoring on large touchscreen displays.

Avionics upgrades improve safety, reduce pilot workload, and can increase the aircraft's resale value. However, glass cockpit installations are expensive, typically costing $300,000 to $500,000 depending on the specific system and installation complexity. Older Citation 2s with original steam-gauge (analog) instruments are still legal to operate and are flown regularly, but they require more pilot skill and attention to manage multiple instruments. Modern avionics also enable better weather awareness and more precise navigation, which are valuable for business operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to charter a Cessna Citation 2?

Charter rates for a Citation 2 typically range from $2,500 to $4,000 per flight hour, depending on the operator, aircraft condition, and market location. Some operators charge a minimum flight time (often 2 to 4 hours) even for shorter trips. Rates may be higher during peak travel seasons or for last-minute bookings.

Can a Citation 2 fly internationally?

Yes, the Citation 2 has sufficient range to cross the continental United States and can fly to Canada and Mexico. International flights require additional documentation, crew certifications, and compliance with foreign airspace rules. The aircraft's range limits it to shorter international routes; it cannot cross the Atlantic or Pacific without refueling stops.

What is the difference between a Citation 2 and a Citation I?

The Citation I (produced 1971–1977) is the earlier model with less powerful engines and lower performance. The Citation 2 has more powerful JT15D engines, better climb performance, higher altitude capability, and improved fuel efficiency. The Citation 2 is generally preferred in the used market because of these improvements.

How many pilots does a Citation 2 require?

The Citation 2 can be operated by a single pilot under Part 91 (general aviation) if that pilot holds a commercial certificate with multi-engine and type ratings. However, most operators employ two pilots for safety and workload management, especially on longer flights or in challenging weather.

What is the useful life of a Citation 2?

Citation 2 aircraft can remain in service for 30+ years with proper maintenance. Airframe life is not limited by hours or years under FAA rules, so an aircraft can fly indefinitely if inspections and maintenance are completed. Engine overhauls and avionics upgrades are the primary factors determining whether an older Citation 2 remains economical to operate.