Cessna Citation Cj3 vs Cessna Citation Cj4 vs Cessna Citation Sovereign
The Cessna Citation CJ3+ and CJ4 are light jets in the CitationJet family, optimized for efficiency and shorter-runway access, while the Citation Sovereign+ is a larger midsize jet designed for longer legs and more cabin volume. In typical use, the CJ3+ offers roughly a 2,000–2,100 nautical mile range and is commonly configured for about 6–8 passengers. The CJ4 is the larger, longer-range light-jet step up, generally around 2,100–2,200 nautical miles, and is often configured for about 8–10 passengers. The Sovereign+ moves into the midsize category with a notably longer range, typically around 3,000–3,200 nautical miles, and seating that commonly falls around 8–12 passengers depending on layout. Overall, the CJ3+ suits shorter missions and smaller groups, the CJ4 adds a bit more space and range while staying in the light-jet class, and the Sovereign+ targets more transcontinental-capable missions with a roomier cabin and higher payload flexibility.
| Spec | Cessna Citation CJ3+ | Cessna Citation CJ4 | Cessna Citation Sovereign+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.05 | $ 4.37 | $ 6.02 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 9 | 9 | 11 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Cessna Citation | Cessna Citation |
| Aircraft Name | CJ3+ | CJ4 | Sovereign + |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1898 | 2170 | 3138 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.58 | $ 0.62 | $ 0.67 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 8 | 12 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 5530 | 6914 | 12790 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 7 | 9 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,680 | $ 1,970 | $ 2,699 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G3000 | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 | Garmin G5000 |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 415 | 440 | 458 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $9,915,000 | $11,290,000 | $19,730,000 |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No | No |
| Jump Seat | No | No | No |
| Total Seats | 9 | 9 | 11 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 8 | 12 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.9 | 9 | 9.3 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 7 | 9 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23586 | 24005 | 25230 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | FJ44-3A | FJ44-4A | PW306D |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 5000 | 6000 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 11 | ISA + 11 | ISA + 16 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 2820 | 3621 | 5907 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | 624 | 757 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 703 | 870 | 1700 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 51.2 | 53.4 | 63.5 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 53 | 50 | 72.4 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.4 | 0.4 | 0.7 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4.8 | 4.8 | 5.5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.8 | 4.8 | 5.7 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 15.7 | 17.2 | 25.3 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.2 | 15.5 | 20.4 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.1 | 3.1 | 3.9 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 12.2 | 14.8 | 17.4 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 65 | 70 | 100 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | — | 7 | 35 |