Citation CJ2
Introduction to Buying the Cessna Citation CJ2
This guide is for professionals and businesses considering the acquisition of a light, versatile business jet, the Cessna Citation CJ2. It offers an in-depth analysis to inform your purchase decision.
You will find key information on the new and used CJ2 market, including price trends and associated operating costs. We will also cover feedback and reviews from operators to provide you with a comprehensive overview.
The goal is to provide you with all the necessary elements to assess whether the Citation CJ2 meets your needs and budget. Continue reading to discover the details.
Citation CJ2 Market and Budget
What is the price of the Citation CJ2?
The price of a new Citation CJ2 was approximately 5.6 million dollars. In the used market, prices vary considerably depending on the year of manufacture, overall condition, and configuration.
What are the current prices for used CJ2s?
Currently, a used Citation CJ2 is offered between 2 and 4 million dollars. For example, a well-maintained 2005 model was sold for 3.5 million dollars in 2023. Conversely, a 2000 CJ2 requiring major refurbishment was acquired for 2.1 million dollars the same year.
What is the availability of Citation CJ2s on the market?
The availability of Citation CJ2s is moderate. The number of aircraft for sale is generally between 10 and 20 units worldwide. This supply has been stable for several years.
What are the average transaction times?
The average time to acquire a Citation CJ2 is 3 to 6 months. This period includes the search phase, inspections, and administrative procedures.
What is the estimated residual value?
The residual value of the Citation CJ2 remains relatively stable. A 2005 aircraft purchased for 3.5 million dollars in 2023 could resell for around 3 million dollars within 5 years with regular maintenance. However, an older 2000 model, acquired for 2.1 million dollars, could see its value drop to 1.5 million dollars over the same period if costly modernizations are not carried out.
What initial budget should be planned for the acquisition of a CJ2?
For the acquisition of a Citation CJ2, the initial budget varies depending on the year and condition of the aircraft.
| Purchase Period | Aircraft Price (M USD) | Other Fees (M USD) | Total Budget (M USD) |
|---|
| Currently | 2.0 - 4.0 | 0.1 - 0.3 | 2.1 - 4.3 |
“Other fees” typically include acquisition inspections, broker fees, and administrative costs.
Operating Costs of a Cessna Citation CJ2 (CJ2)
What are the annual fixed cost items?
Fixed costs are incurred regardless of jet usage. They include hangar, insurance, and crew salaries. For a Citation CJ2, these costs can vary significantly depending on location and providers.
An annual budget for these items is generally between 300,000 and 500,000 USD. This estimate assumes a full-time crew of two pilots.
What are the variable costs per flight hour?
Variable costs depend directly on flight time. Fuel is the largest expense item, followed by maintenance, landing, and navigation fees.
The CJ2 consumes an average of about 500 liters of fuel per hour. Total hourly costs (fuel, maintenance, various fees) can range from 1,200 to 2,000 USD per flight hour, excluding fixed costs.
What are the major maintenance deadlines?
CJ2 maintenance is scheduled according to flight hours and calendar. “A” inspections are performed every 200 hours or 12 months. Heavier inspections, such as “B”, “C”, “D” occur at longer intervals.
A complete inspection (type “D”) is required every 6,000 hours or 5 years. It is crucial to anticipate these events for proper budget management.
Estimated Annual Operating Cost (in USD)
The table below provides an estimate of annual costs for different uses of the Citation CJ2. These figures are approximate and may vary.
| Cost Items | 150 hours/year | 300 hours/year | 500 hours/year |
|---|
| Fixed Costs | | | |
| Hangar, insurance, crew | 400 000 | 400 000 | 400 000 |
| Variable Costs | | | |
| Fuel | 90 000 | 180 000 | 300 000 |
| Maintenance (excluding overhauls) | 75 000 | 150 000 | 250 000 |
| Fees | 22 500 | 45 000 | 75 000 |
| Estimated Annual Total | 587 500 | 775 000 | 1 025 000 |
Source: These estimates are based on general business aviation market data and can vary considerably. It is recommended to consult specialized operators for precise quotes.
Buy or Charter a Citation CJ2: Cost-Usage Trade-off
The decision to acquire or charter a Citation CJ2 depends on the projected annual flight hours and usage objectives. Buying offers constant availability and customization, while chartering prioritizes flexibility and reduced fixed costs.
What is the acquisition cost of a Citation CJ2?
A used Citation CJ2 (2000-2006 models) costs between 1.8 million and 2.4 million US dollars in 2023. For a CJ2+ (2006-2016 models), prices range from 2.5 million to 4.4 million US dollars. These prices depend on the year of manufacture, overall condition, and equipment.
What are the hourly charter costs for the Citation CJ2?
The hourly charter rate for a Citation CJ2 is between 2,100 € and 2,200 € per flight hour. These rates generally include the aircraft, crew, fuel, and insurance, but may vary depending on the operator and additional fees. For the CJ2+, the hourly rate can go up to 4,600 € with some operators.
Up to how many hours is buying more relevant than chartering?
To assess the relevance of buying, one must consider annual fixed costs (depreciation, insurance, basic maintenance, hangar) versus variable costs (fuel, crew fees, in-flight maintenance).
As an estimate, annual depreciation represents approximately 10% of the purchase value. For a CJ2 at 2 million dollars (approximately 1.8 million €), this represents 180,000 €/year in depreciation.
Fixed costs for insurance, maintenance, and hangar can be estimated at an average of 150,000 €/year.
Direct operating costs (fuel, landing fees, crew) for a CJ2 are approximately 1,500 €/hour.
| Annual Scenario (hours) | Estimated Annual Cost (Charter) | Amortized Annual Cost (Purchase) | Threshold (hours) |
|---|
| 150 h | 330 000 € | 555 000 € | |
| 300 h | 660 000 € | 780 000 € | |
| 500 h | 1 100 000 € | 1 080 000 € | 490 h |
Assumption: Used CJ2 price 1.8 M€, 10% depreciation/year, fixed costs 150 k€/year, hourly charter cost 2,200 €, direct hourly purchase cost 1,500 €.
The break-even point is around 490 flight hours per year. Beyond this figure, buying becomes more financially advantageous.
What is the best option for occasional, regular, or intensive use?
For occasional use, chartering remains the most flexible and least expensive solution, with an annual budget of around 330,000 € for 150 flight hours. For regular use, chartering is still preferable up to approximately 300 flight hours per year, with an annual cost of 660,000 €. For intensive use exceeding 500 hours per year, buying is financially more attractive, with an amortized annual cost of 1,080,000 €.
Chartering allows you to avoid the constraints of maintenance, crew, and aircraft management. Buying provides exclusive availability, the possibility to customize the aircraft, and to valorize an asset long-term, despite higher fixed costs. Personal preferences regarding management, flexibility, and assets should be taken into account.
Sources:
[1] Lunajets.com
[2] Aeroaffaires.fr
If you want to know more about Citation CJ2 charter
Where to Buy a Cessna Citation CJ2?
What are the main platforms?
For the purchase of a Citation CJ2, several specialized platforms offer a wide range of listings. These include brokers selling pre-owned aircraft and online classified services.
The following platforms are among the most recognized in the market:
The choice between a platform and a broker depends on your preferences. Platforms offer great visibility and direct access to many listings. They are ideal for independent research.
Specialized brokers can offer a more personalized service. They manage negotiations, inspections, and legal aspects. This service is often preferred for a first purchase or if time is limited.
Owner Reviews
What do current users think?
Feedback from owners of the sixth-generation Honda CR-V is generally positive, particularly regarding comfort and onboard technology. However, some drawbacks are sometimes mentioned, mainly concerning fuel consumption in urban driving.
“This is my third CR-V and I am still as satisfied. The comfort is incredible, especially for long journeys. The onboard technology is intuitive and easy to use. The trunk volume is a real plus for family vacations.”
— Marc, 48, Lille
“The CR-V is an excellent family car. The interior space is generous and the materials are of good quality. The only downside is that fuel consumption in the city is a bit higher than I expected. On the highway, it’s very reasonable.”
— Sophie, 35, Bordeaux
Discover many reviews on the Citation CJ2
Buying a Citation CJ2: Taking Action
The Citation CJ2 stands out for its efficiency and reliability, representing a sound investment in business aviation. Its versatility makes it an asset for various flight missions.
What is the annual operating cost?
The annual operation of a Citation CJ2 amounts to approximately 1.3 to 1.4 million US dollars. This budget includes fixed and variable costs, such as fuel, maintenance, and crew fees. It is sized for approximately 300 to 450 flight hours per year.
How to get a personalized quote?
For a precise quote tailored to your specific needs, it is recommended to contact a specialized business aviation broker. These experts can assess acquisition, maintenance, and operating costs based on your usage profile.
What are the next steps?
Contact an air broker or aviation consultant. They will assist you through all phases of the acquisition, from model selection to finalizing the purchase.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions from Buyers
What are the common financing methods?
Buyers often use leasing, specialized bank loans, or direct equity financing. The choice depends on tax advantages and the operator’s investment strategy.
What is the procedure for registration application?
Registration of a Citation CJ2 requires a complete file with the local civil aviation authority (e.g., DGAC in France or FAA in the United States), including proof of ownership, airworthiness certificate, and technical documents for the aircraft.
What are the key regulations impacting operation?
Operation is governed by general and commercial aviation regulations, including ICAO standards, and specific national regulations concerning maintenance, crew flight times, and air operations.
What are the common technical pitfalls to watch out for during acquisition?
Check engine condition (TBO), maintenance history, avionics (FMS updates), and any structural corrosion. A pre-purchase inspection is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises.
What does post-acquisition management cover?
It includes regular maintenance, planning major overhauls, crew management, aircraft insurance, hangar storage, and monitoring air regulations, often managed by specialized companies.
What is the influence of flight hours on resale value?
Flight hours directly impact value. A high number of hours can depreciate the aircraft, especially if major engine or structural overhauls are approaching, requiring significant investments.
Should additional costs be anticipated at purchase?
Yes, in addition to the acquisition price, pre-purchase inspection fees, taxes, registration fees, initial pilot training, and aircraft ferry costs should be anticipated.
