CitationJet (CJ) vs. CitationJet 1 (CJ1): A Detailed Comparison for Discerning Buyers

When exploring the light jet market, Cessna's CitationJet (CJ) series consistently stands out for its efficiency, performance, and operational flexibility. Within this highly successful family, the original CitationJet (often simply referred to as the CJ) and its direct successor, the CitationJet 1 (CJ1), represent key milestones. While sharing a foundational design, the CJ1 introduced enhancements that primarily refined its avionics and operational flexibility. This article delves into a detailed comparison to highlight their differences and help you understand which model might best suit your needs.

Historical Context: Evolution of a Legacy

The story begins with the Cessna CitationJet (CJ), Model 525, which made its first flight in 1991 and was delivered starting in 1993. Designed as a modern replacement for the earlier Citation I, the CJ aimed for simplicity, economy, and performance. It featured a modified fuselage, a new T-tail, and crucially, a natural laminar flow wing developed in conjunction with NASA. This innovative wing design significantly reduced drag, boosting speed and efficiency. The CJ was powered by two Williams/Rolls-Royce FJ44-1A turbofan engines, each providing 1,900 pounds of thrust.

Building on this success, Cessna introduced the CitationJet 1 (CJ1) in 2000 as an enhanced version of the original CJ. The CJ1 (also a Model 525) retained many of the core strengths of its predecessor while incorporating valuable upgrades, particularly in avionics and a slight increase in maximum takeoff weight.

Performance and Specifications: More Alike Than Different

Despite the CJ1 being a newer model, a key takeaway for potential owners is that there are no performance or fuel consumption differences between the original CitationJet (CJ) and the CitationJet 1 (CJ1). Both aircraft utilize the same Williams FJ44-1A engines, known for their fuel efficiency and reliability.

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): The CJ1 saw a modest increase in its maximum takeoff weight to 10,600 lbs, a 200-pound increase over the original CJ's 10,400 lbs. This offers additional payload flexibility but is offset by the extra weight of the Collins avionics.

• Engines: Both models are powered by the reliable Williams FJ44-1A turbofans.

• Range & Speed: Both the CJ and CJ1 offer very similar range and cruise speeds, typically around 1,250 nautical miles (NBAA IFR range with 4 passengers) and maximum cruise speeds around 377-380 KTAS (Knots True Airspeed). Although real world numbers are typically around 360 knots true airspeed.

• Takeoff Distance: Both aircraft excel in short-field capabilities, requiring approximately 3,080 feet for takeoff at sea level, making them ideal for accessing smaller airports.

Avionics and Cockpit: Where the CJ1 Diverged and Upgrades Shine

The most notable distinction between the CJ and CJ1 lies in their factory-installed avionics:

• CitationJet (CJ) Avionics: The original CJ came with a variety of avionics packages over its production run. You'll find anything from "old school" setups featuring KLN90B GPS units, Universal FMS, or early Garmin 430s. This variety means that original CJs can have vastly different cockpit layouts and capabilities depending on their specific configuration and any aftermarket upgrades.

• CitationJet 1 (CJ1) Avionics: The CJ1 was distinguished by its factory integration of the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite. This brought a "glass cockpit" environment with Primary Flight Displays (PFD) and Multi-Function Displays (MFD), offering pilots enhanced situational awareness and more integrated navigation compared to the earlier analog or mixed EFIS systems found in the original CJs.

• Single-Pilot Certification: Both the CJ and CJ1 are certified for single-pilot operation, a significant advantage for reducing operating costs and increasing flexibility.

The Modern Avionics Landscape: Upgrades are Key

While the Pro Line 21 was a significant upgrade at the time of the CJ1's introduction, technology has advanced considerably. Many owners of both CJ and CJ1 aircraft are now opting for comprehensive aftermarket avionics upgrades.

For original CJs, many have already seen upgrades to modern Garmin GTN 750s for navigation and communication, vastly improving their capabilities. For a truly transformative experience, some CJs have undergone a complete Garmin G600TXI upgrade with the GFC 600 digital autopilot. This provides a fully integrated glass panel with advanced features, greatly enhancing safety, reducing pilot workload, and improving reliability. Removing the Honeywell EFIS equipment can shave off 160+ pounds of outdated gear, however if you plan to fly single pilot you will need to carry ballast up front to replace that weight.

Our Suggestion: Between any of the CJ/CJ1 factory options, we highly recommend the complete Garmin G600TXI upgrade with the GFC 600 autopilot. While the factory Pro Line 21 in the CJ1 was once cutting-edge, the technology is now considered outdated by modern standards, and more critically, repairs for Pro Line 21 components can be ridiculously expensive, with some display replacements costing upwards of $60,000. A modern Garmin suite offers superior reliability, advanced features (like Synthetic Vision, more intuitive touch interfaces, and robust autopilot functions), and often a lower long-term cost of ownership due to more accessible and affordable maintenance.

Cabin and Comfort

The cabin experience in both jets is largely similar, designed for comfort on short to medium-range missions:

• Dimensions: Both aircraft feature a cabin height of approximately 4 feet 8 inches and a cabin width of 4 feet 9 inches. The cabin length is around 11 feet.

• Passenger Capacity: Typically, both models are configured to seat 5-6 passengers in a 4 person club arrangement, many have additional side-facing belted lavatory seat.

• Amenities: Features usually include a dropped aisle for easier movement, a small galley/refreshment area, and a fully enclosed lavatory. The CJ1 introduced a double-sealed door, which subtly improved cabin noise levels.

• Baggage Capacity: Both offer good external baggage capacity, providing ample space for luggage.

Which One Is Right for You?

The choice between a CitationJet (CJ) and a CitationJet 1 (CJ1) significantly hinges on budget and your long-term avionics strategy:

• Cessna CitationJet (CJ): The original CJ remains an excellent entry-level private jet. It can generally be had for a cheaper price than a CJ1. With the understanding that you will likely invest in modern avionics upgrades, a well-maintained CJ offers exceptional economy, robust performance for its class, and proven reliability. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a cost-effective private jet for shorter missions, providing a great platform for a modernized cockpit.

• Cessna CitationJet 1 (CJ1): While the CJ1 came with a more integrated avionics suite from the factory (Pro Line 21), it's important to factor in the potential high costs of maintaining or repairing this aging system. If you acquire a CJ1, seriously consider an upgrade path, as the performance and payload are nearly identical to the original CJ.

Both aircraft represent the core values of the CitationJet family: economical operation, single-pilot capability, and the ability to access shorter runways, making them highly versatile for regional travel. An upgraded CJ, benefiting from the latest in Garmin technology, can easily surpass the capabilities and long-term cost-effectiveness of a stock CJ1 with its original Pro Line 21 system. Understanding these distinctions will help you make an informed decision for your aviation needs.

Contact us at the Citation Jet Exchange to dive deeper and help you find the best jet for your needs and budget.

Corey@CitationJetX.com

314-203-4712