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Cessna Citation Cj3 vs Embraer Praetor 500

The Cessna Citation CJ3+ is typically categorized as a light jet, aimed at efficient short-to-midrange missions with lower operating complexity. The Embraer Praetor 500 is generally positioned in the midsize class, offering a larger cabin and more long-range capability for its segment. In range, the CJ3+ is designed for solid regional and transcontinental U.S.-style trips, with published range around 2,000 nautical miles (about 2,040 nm), while the Praetor 500 is built for longer nonstop legs, commonly published around 3,300 nautical miles, enabling more city-pair flexibility and fewer fuel stops. Passenger capacity differs accordingly: the CJ3+ is typically configured for about 6 to 8 passengers in a standard executive layout, whereas the Praetor 500 commonly seats about 8 to 9 passengers, with options that can vary by operator. Overall, the CJ3+ emphasizes economical light-jet performance and access to shorter runways, while the Praetor 500 emphasizes midsize comfort, baggage volume, and longer-range capability.

SpecCessna Citation CJ3+Embraer Praetor 500
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 4.05$ 6.02
Min Crew12
Total Seats99
ManufacturerCessna CitationEmbraer
Aircraft NameCJ3+Praetor 500
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)18983340
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.58$ 0.86
Max Cabin Seats89
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIED
Useful Load (lbs)5530
Standard Cabin Seats77
Direct Operating Cost$ 1,680$ 2,779
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Garmin G3000Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)415466
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$9,915,000$16,995,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Lavatory1 Enclosed Belted Flushing1 Enclosed Belted Flushing
Min Crew12
Crew RestNoNo
Jump SeatNoNo
Total Seats99
Galley LocationFWDFWD
Max Cabin Seats89
Lavatory LocationAFTAFT
Cabin Pressure (psi)8.99.7
Galley / RefreshmentGalleyGalley
Standard Cabin Seats77
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)2358627110
ConnectivityGogo AVANCE L5
Max Cabin Altitude (ft)5800
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelFJ44-3AHTF7500E
TBO (hrs)5000On-Condition
Flat RatingISA + 11ISA + 18
Thrust (lbs)28206540
No. of Engines22
Fuel Burn (lbph)624
Fuel Capacity (gal)703
Dimensions
Length (ft)51.264.6
Wingspan (ft)5370.5
Aisle Step (ft)0.4Flat Floor
Cabin Width (ft)4.86.9
Cabin Height (ft)4.86
Cabin Length (ft)15.720.6
Overall Height (ft)15.221.1
Cabin Width - Floor (ft)3.14.7
Cabin Length - Seating (ft)12.217.4
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)65110
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)40