The Cessna Citation 560 is a mid-size twin-engine business jet built from 1984 to 2003

The Cessna Citation 560, also called the Citation V, is a pressurized aircraft designed to carry executives and small groups across medium distances. It has two turbofan engines, seats up to eight passengers, and a maximum range of roughly 2,000 nautical miles depending on payload and weather. The aircraft entered production in 1984 and remained in service until Cessna discontinued the line in 2003, though hundreds remain in active use today.

If you are researching this aircraft because you own one, are considering buying one, or work in aviation, understanding its basic specifications and operating costs will help you make informed decisions about maintenance, operation, or purchase.

Key Takeaways

  • The Citation 560 carries up to eight people and cruises at roughly 400 knots, making it suitable for trips between major cities but not intercontinental flights.
  • Operating costs typically run between $3,000 and $5,000 per flight hour, including fuel, crew, maintenance, and insurance, though this varies by aircraft condition and usage patterns.
  • The aircraft requires two pilots for most operations and needs regular inspections under FAA Part 91 rules, with major overhauls required on engines and airframes at specific intervals.
  • Used Citation 560 aircraft sell for between $1 million and $3 million depending on age, total flight hours, maintenance history, and avionics upgrades.
  • The Citation 560 is no longer manufactured, so all available aircraft are used; finding one in good condition requires working with aircraft brokers who specialize in pre-owned jets.

Physical specifications and performance

The Citation 560 measures 54 feet long with a 52-foot wingspan and stands about 17 feet tall. It weighs roughly 13,000 pounds empty and can carry a maximum payload of about 4,000 pounds, which includes fuel, passengers, baggage, and crew. The cabin is pressurized to 8,000 feet, meaning passengers experience the air pressure of an 8,000-foot altitude even when the aircraft flies at 35,000 feet, reducing fatigue on longer flights.

The two Pratt & Whitney JT15D turbofan engines produce 2,500 pounds of thrust each. The aircraft cruises at roughly 400 knots (460 miles per hour) and has a service ceiling of 43,000 feet, allowing it to fly above most weather. Maximum range is approximately 2,000 nautical miles with a full fuel load and no reserves, though practical range is lower when accounting for fuel reserves, headwinds, and payload weight.

Cockpit and avionics systems

The Citation 560 requires two pilots for all commercial operations and most charter flights, though some private operators may be permitted single-pilot operation under specific conditions. The original avionics suite varies widely depending on when the aircraft was built and what upgrades the owner installed over time.

Older Citation 560 aircraft came equipped with analog instruments and basic navigation systems. Many have been retrofitted with modern glass cockpits—typically Garmin G1000 or Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 systems—which display flight data on digital screens and integrate GPS, weather radar, and autopilot functions. Avionics upgrades can cost $500,000 to $1 million and significantly increase the aircraft's value and operational capability. When evaluating a used Citation 560, the age and sophistication of the avionics are major factors in both purchase price and operating costs.

Maintenance requirements and operating costs

The Citation 560 operates under FAA Part 91 rules, which require annual inspections and progressive maintenance checks. The aircraft also needs 100-hour inspections if used for commercial purposes. Engine overhauls are required at 3,500 flight hours, and airframe inspections become more frequent as the aircraft ages. These requirements exist to may support safety and reliability.

Operating costs typically range from $3,000 to $5,000 per flight hour, though this varies significantly based on fuel prices, maintenance condition, crew salaries, insurance, and hangar fees. Fuel consumption runs roughly 200 gallons per hour. A typical cross-country flight of four hours might cost $12,000 to $20,000 in direct operating expenses before accounting for crew salaries, hangar rent, or insurance. Owners should budget for unexpected maintenance—a major engine repair or avionics failure can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

Purchase price and market availability

Used Citation 560 aircraft typically sell for between $1 million and $3 million, depending on total flight hours, maintenance history, avionics upgrades, and overall condition. Aircraft with fewer than 5,000 total hours and modern avionics command higher prices. Those with higher hours or older systems sell for less but may still be airworthy and suitable for certain missions.

Because the Citation 560 is no longer manufactured, all available aircraft are pre-owned. Aircraft brokers who specialize in business jets maintain listings and can help buyers navigate inspections, negotiations, and financing. A pre-purchase inspection by an independent maintenance facility is essential and typically costs $10,000 to $20,000 but can reveal hidden problems that might cost far more to fix later.

Comparison to other mid-size business jets

The Citation 560 competes in the mid-size category alongside aircraft like the Learjet 45, Hawker 800, and Bombardier Challenger 300. The Citation 560 is generally less expensive to purchase and operate than newer competitors, making it attractive to buyers with limited budgets. However, it has smaller cabins and shorter range than larger jets, and older avionics systems may lack features found in newer aircraft.

The Learjet 45 is faster and has a slightly longer range but typically costs more to operate. The Hawker 800 offers a larger cabin but is heavier and more expensive. The Bombardier Challenger 300 is newer, more efficient, and has better avionics, but costs significantly more to purchase. Your choice depends on how many passengers you need to carry, how far you fly, and what your budget allows for both purchase and operation.

Common issues and what to watch for

Citation 560 aircraft with high total flight hours may develop cracks in the fuselage or wings, particularly around windows and door frames. These cracks require expensive repairs and can ground an aircraft until fixed. Engine hot-section inspections become more frequent as engines age, and replacing an engine can cost $300,000 to $500,000.

Older avionics systems may become difficult to repair as manufacturers discontinue parts and support. Pressurization system leaks are not uncommon and can be expensive to diagnose and repair. When evaluating a used Citation 560, request the complete maintenance logs and have an independent technician review them. Aircraft with gaps in maintenance records or deferred maintenance items should be avoided or heavily discounted.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many people can the Citation 560 carry?

The Citation 560 seats up to eight passengers plus two pilots. Actual seating depends on interior configuration—some aircraft are set up for six or seven passengers with additional baggage space. Fuel load and weight limits may reduce the number of passengers on very long flights or when carrying heavy baggage.

Can a single pilot fly the Citation 560?

The aircraft is certified for single-pilot operation under certain conditions, but most commercial and charter operations require two pilots. Insurance companies and charter operators typically mandate two-pilot crews. Private owners may be permitted single-pilot operation if they hold the appropriate type rating and meet experience requirements, though this is uncommon.

What is the difference between the Citation 560 and the Citation 560XL?

Cessna produced the Citation 560XL as an upgraded version with a longer fuselage, larger cabin, and improved engines. The XL has better range and can carry more passengers. The original Citation 560 (also called Citation V) is smaller and less expensive to operate, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers despite its limitations.

How much does it cost to own a Citation 560 for a year?

Annual fixed costs typically include hangar rent ($500 to $2,000 per month), insurance ($15,000 to $40,000 per year), crew salaries if employed full-time, and maintenance reserves. If you fly 200 hours per year at $3,500 per hour, that adds $700,000 in direct operating costs. Total annual ownership can range from $800,000 to $1.5 million depending on usage and location.

Where can I find a Citation 560 for sale?

Aircraft brokers who specialize in business jets maintain listings of available aircraft. Major brokers include AvionLedger, Controller.com, and Aircraft Bluebook. You can also contact Cessna directly for referrals to dealers or brokers. Always work with a broker experienced in pre-owned jets and have an independent maintenance facility inspect any aircraft before purchase.