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.
| Spec | Cessna Citation CJ3+ | Embraer Praetor 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 4.05 | $ 6.02 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Embraer |
| Aircraft Name | CJ3+ | Praetor 500 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1898 | 3340 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.58 | $ 0.86 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 5530 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 7 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 1,680 | $ 2,779 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Garmin G3000 | Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 415 | 466 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $9,915,000 | $16,995,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 1 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No |
| Jump Seat | No | No |
| Total Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 8 | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.9 | 9.7 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 7 | 7 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23586 | 27110 |
| Connectivity | — | Gogo AVANCE L5 |
| Max Cabin Altitude (ft) | — | 5800 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | FJ44-3A | HTF7500E |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | On-Condition |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 11 | ISA + 18 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 2820 | 6540 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Fuel Burn (lbph) | 624 | — |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 703 | — |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 51.2 | 64.6 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 53 | 70.5 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.4 | Flat Floor |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 4.8 | 6.9 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 4.8 | 6 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 15.7 | 20.6 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 15.2 | 21.1 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.1 | 4.7 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 12.2 | 17.4 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 65 | 110 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | — | 40 |