Cessna Citation II

When the Citation II debuted in the light business jet market, it was one-of-a-kind. It sold 1,000 jets in its first four years on the market and was manufactured for sixteen years, making its Cessna’s best-selling private jet to date.

At the time of the Citation II release, everyone else in the industry was trying to outdo each other by making the heaviest, most complicated, hard-to-fly jet. The Citation II defied all trends with its simple systems and manufacturing techniques, dramatically reducing operating and purchase costs. Its focus on simplicity and economy was so effective in the air, and popular among pilots and jet owners that it completely reversed jet design trends all over the private jet industry.

The Citation II can carry eight passengers up to 2,000 nm at a max cruise speed of 374 knots. Its two Pratt & Whitney engines provide 2,500 pounds of thrust apiece on takeoff and help it climb quickly at a little more than 3,000 feet per minute. The Citation II has a maximum service ceiling of 43,000 feet.

Just because the Citation II’s systems are simple does not mean that they are not safe. The Citation II is certified under FAR part 25 airworthiness standards – these standards are mandatory for big airliners like the Boeing 747.

The Citation series was a radical change for the better in the private jet industry. It was so influential that the president of Cessna was awarded the Collier Trophy, a national award that recognizes major achievements in the advancement of aviation.

In short, the Citation II did not just beat the competition, it changed the way private jets compete. For its flexibility and economy this is an attractive option.