Cessna Citation CJ3/CJ3+
| Passengers | Range | Speed | Charter From | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 8 | 2,159 mi (1,875 nm) | 480 mph (417 ktas) | $2,500 / hr | East Coast & Caribbean |
The Citation CJ3 is a light jet manufactured by Cessna (Textron Aviation), seating up to 6 passengers with a range of 2,159 miles (1,875 nm) and a cruise speed of 480 mph. Citation CJ3 charter rates run $2,500 to $3,500 per flight hour, with one-way trip pricing from $8,000 to $22,000. The CJ3 is best suited to routes under 1,725 miles (1,500 nm): East Coast hops, Southeast U.S. corridors, and Caribbean island routes are its primary use cases.
Please note that the hourly rate is not the total trip cost. Final pricing includes known fees such as landing and handling, crew, overflight permits, and taxes, plus variable costs like repositioning, de-icing, wait time, and overnights. Contact Hogani Jets for an accurate all-in quote.
The Citation CJ3 entered service in 2004 as the third evolution of Cessna's CJ-series light jets. It remains one of the most consistently available light jets in the North American charter fleet, with strong short-runway performance that opens airports unavailable to larger aircraft.
| Specification | Citation CJ3 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cessna / Textron Aviation | First certificated 2004 |
| Aircraft Category | Light Jet | FAR Part 23 certified |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 8 | Typical charter config: 5-6 pax |
| Cabin Length | 15.0 ft (4.57 m) | Single aisle forward seating |
| Cabin Width | 4.8 ft (1.47 m) | Two-plus-two seating layout |
| Cabin Height | 4.8 ft (1.47 m) | No stand-up; seated comfort under 3 hrs |
| Baggage Capacity | 70 cu ft (2.0 m³) | Split nose and aft compartment |
| Max Range | 2,159 mi / 1,875 nm | At typical charter payload |
| Max Cruise Speed | 480 mph / 417 ktas / Mach 0.737 | Typical mission: Mach 0.70-0.72 |
| Cruise Altitude | FL410-430 | Max certified altitude: 45,000 ft |
| Engines | Williams FJ44-3A × 2 | FADEC-controlled |
| MTOW | 13,870 lbs (6,292 kg) | Maximum takeoff weight |
| Typical Runway Required | ~3,180 ft takeoff / 2,770 ft landing | Sea level, standard conditions |
| Cabin Altitude | 6,800 ft at FL350 | Lower cabin altitude than older light jets; easier on passengers |
| Rate of Climb | 3,800 ft per minute | Quick climb to cruise; clears weather and terrain efficiently |
| Cabin Noise | 67 dBA | Quiet for the light-jet class; comfortable for conversation |
| Hourly Charter Rate | $2,500 – $3,500 | Varies by operator and market |
The Citation CJ3 cabin seats up to 8 passengers across a 15.0-foot interior, configured as two-plus-two forward seats with a one-plus-one aft layout on most operators. It is a functional, efficient cabin, well-suited to routes under 3 hours where transit time matters more than long-haul amenities.
- Headroom stands at 4 feet 8 inches at the center aisle. Passengers cannot stand upright, though seated comfort is adequate for East Coast hops and Caribbean routes.
- Baggage capacity of 70 cubic feet is distributed between the nose compartment and aft baggage bay. Groups with golf clubs, dive equipment, or multiple large suitcases should confirm space before booking.
- The enclosed aft lavatory is standard on all CJ3s in charter service.
- USB charging and entertainment systems are available on most current-fleet CJ3s. Wi-Fi connectivity varies by operator, so confirm at time of booking.
Baggage note for the Citation CJ3: With a full load of 7 to 8 passengers, the 70 cubic foot capacity is workable but worth confirming for groups with significant luggage. For larger parties or bulky equipment, a Citation XLS+ midsize jet may be the more practical choice.
Cessna introduced the Citation CJ3+ in 2014 as an updated variant of the original CJ3. Both are standard in the current charter fleet. The differences matter when selecting an aircraft for a specific mission.
| Specification | Citation CJ3 | Citation CJ3+ |
|---|---|---|
| Year Introduced | 2004 | 2014 |
| Range | 2,159 mi / 1,875 nm | 2,159 mi / 1,875 nm (effectively identical) |
| Max Cruise Speed | 480 mph / 417 ktas | 480 mph / 417 ktas |
| Engines | Williams FJ44-3A | Williams FJ44-3A (same) |
| Avionics | Garmin G1000 NXi | Garmin G3000 with touchscreen controllers |
| Cabin | Original CJ3 interior | Updated interior, improved noise insulation |
| Connectivity | Varies by operator | More commonly equipped with upgraded comms |
| Charter Pricing | $2,500-3,500 / hr | $2,500-3,500 / hr |
| Availability | High, large charter fleet | Growing as newer operators transition |
For most Citation CJ3 charter routes, the performance difference between CJ3 and CJ3+ is negligible. The CJ3+ offers a more modern avionics suite and a slightly refreshed cabin. If the CJ3+ is available at a comparable price, it is generally the preferred option.
The Citation CJ3 performs best on routes matching its short-runway capability and sub-1,725 mile range. These five routes represent its most common charter missions.
| Route | ICAO Codes | Est. Time | Best Variant | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miami to Nassau, Bahamas | KOPF to MYNN | ~45 min | CJ3 or CJ3+ | Ideal short-hop. Highest CJ3 use case frequency. |
| Miami to Turks and Caicos | KOPF to MBPV | ~1h 30m | CJ3+ | Within optimal range. PLS runway fully compatible. |
| Miami to St. Barts | KOPF to TFFJ | ~2h 30m | CJ3+ | Requires TFFJ-certified crew. 2,133 ft runway. |
| New York to Miami | KTEB to KOPF | ~3h 00m | CJ3 | Best for 4-5 pax with moderate luggage. |
| New York to Washington D.C. | KTEB to KJYO | ~1h 20m | CJ3 or CJ3+ | Fastest category for this short hop. |
Citation CJ3 charter rates run $2,500 to $3,500 per flight hour. Total one-way trip pricing depends on route distance, positioning costs, and market demand.
Please note that the hourly rate is not the total trip cost. Final pricing includes known fees such as landing and handling, crew, overflight permits, and taxes, plus variable costs like repositioning, de-icing, wait time, and overnights. Contact Hogani Jets for an accurate all-in quote.
| Route | Est. One-Way Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Miami to Nassau, Bahamas | $8,000 - $12,000+ | Most cost-efficient Citation CJ3 charter use case. |
| Miami to Turks and Caicos | $14,500 - $19,000+ | Primary Caribbean route for the CJ3 category. |
| Miami to St. Barts | $18,000 - $23,000+ | Requires St Maarten arrival. |
| New York to Miami | $16,500 - $22,000+ | Suitable for 4-5 passengers with moderate luggage. |
| New York to Caribbean | $29,000 - $35,000+ | Extended range mission. Midsize often preferred for 6+ pax. |
The $2,500 to $3,500 hourly rate for a Citation CJ3 charter covers core operational costs. Additional fees and services are quoted separately on every trip, which is important to understand when comparing total trip prices.
- Aircraft operation: fuel, crew, and maintenance are included in the hourly rate.
- Two certificated pilots: required for all CJ3 charter operations.
- Federal excise tax and segment fees: federally mandated, quoted separately.
- Positioning costs: charged if the aircraft must reposition to your departure airport.
- International handling fees: these apply on Bahamas and other international hops.
Contact Hogani Jets team for accurate and current pricing.
When buyers cross-shop the CJ3, the two most common comparisons are the Phenom 300/300E and the HondaJet Elite II. The Phenom 300/300E sits a popular light jet with more range, speed, and baggage; the HondaJet Elite II is a light jet best suited to smaller four-passenger missions. The table below shows where each fits.
| Specification | Citation CJ3 | Phenom 300/300E | HondaJet Elite II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passengers | Up to 8 | Up to 9 | Up to 6 |
| Range | 2,159 mi (1,875 nm) | 2,313 mi (2,010 nm) | 1,653 mi (1,437 nm) |
| Cruise Speed | 480 mph (417 ktas) | 521 mph (453 ktas) | 486 mph (422 ktas) |
| Cabin Height | 4.8 ft | 5.1 ft | 4.9 ft |
| Baggage | 70 cu ft | 84 cu ft | 66 cu ft |
| Hourly Rate | $2,500-$3,500 | $2,800-$3,800 | $2,200-$2,800 |
| Best Use Case | Light jet. Caribbean, East Coast hops | Light jet. Similar routes, more cabin and range | Light jet. Short to mid-range, 4 pax |
The Citation CJ3's short-runway capability and 2,159-mile range make it particularly well-suited to specific destinations where larger jets cannot operate or where the CJ3's economics offer the best value.
Top Caribbean Destinations for the CJ3
- Nassau, Bahamas: 45 minutes from Miami. The most-flown CJ3 route in North America. Nassau International (MYNN) supports all CJ3 operations.
- Turks and Caicos: 1h 30m from Miami. Providenciales (MBPV) is fully CJ3-compatible. Primary Caribbean island route for this category.
- St. Maarten: 2h 30m from Miami. Princess Juliana Intl Airport (TNCM) has a 7,546-foot runway and is the gateway to St Barts.
- Cayman Islands: 1h 30m from Miami. Owen Roberts International (MWCR) fully supports CJ3 operations.
Top U.S. Destinations for the CJ3
- Miami to New York: best for 4-5 passenger groups with moderate luggage. 3-hour flight in the CJ3.
- New York to Aspen: winter ski destination. CJ3 short-runway capability supports Aspen-Pitkin (KASE) operations.
- Florida intra-state routes: Miami to Orlando, Tampa, or Naples. CJ3 economics shine on under-1-hour hops.
- East Coast corridor: New York, Boston, Washington D.C., Charleston. CJ3 covers all these under 2 hours.
Hogani Jets coordinates each Citation CJ3/CJ3+ charter through licensed Part 135 operators. Hogani Jets does not operate the aircraft directly. Every charter is conducted by a licensed Part 135 direct air carrier whose crew, maintenance, and operations remain under that carrier's independent operational control, with certifications and safety records reviewed as part of every booking.
| Relationship | Aircraft | When to Consider |
|---|---|---|
Predecessor | Smaller, shorter range (1,613 nm). Best for very short hops with 4 passengers. | |
Successor / Step Up | More range (2,165 nm), faster (451 ktas), better baggage. Step up for routes past 1,840 mi. | |
Direct Competitor | Faster (453 ktas), more baggage (84 cu ft). Choose when speed and cabin matter. | |
Direct Competitor | HondaJet Elite II | Strong for 4-passenger missions. Less practical for 6+ pax. |
Next Category Up | Â When group exceeds 6, route exceeds 1,840 mi, or stand-up cabin is needed. |
Ready to book a Citation CJ3/CJ3+ private jet charter or check availability? Contact Hogani Jets for a tailored quote.Â
Call +1-855-660-0573 or email charter@hoganijets.com, and our team will coordinate the right aircraft and operator for your trip.
Reviewed by Matt Hogan — Founder, Hogani Jets & Aviation Specialist.
How much does it cost to charter a Citation CJ3?
Citation CJ3 charter rates run $2,500 to $3,500 per flight hour. One-way trip pricing ranges from $8,000 for short Caribbean hops to $22,000 for routes like New York to Miami. Pricing varies by route distance, positioning, and season.
What's included in the Citation CJ3 hourly rate?
The hourly rate covers aircraft operation, fuel, two pilots, standard catering, and maintenance reserves. Federal Excise Tax (7.5%), segment fees, positioning costs, international handling fees, and premium catering are quoted separately.
How many passengers can the Citation CJ3 carry?
The Citation CJ3 seats up to 8 passengers. Most operators configure for 4 to 5 for comfortable operation. With a full passenger load, the 70 cubic foot baggage capacity is worth confirming before booking if the group is travelling with significant luggage.
What is the range of the Citation CJ3?
The Citation CJ3 has a range of 2,159 miles (1,875 nautical miles) at typical charter payload. This covers all East Coast city pairs nonstop and reaches Caribbean destinations including the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and Cayman Islands without a fuel stop.
What is the difference between the Citation CJ3 and CJ3+?
The Citation CJ3+ was introduced in 2014 with upgraded Garmin G3000 avionics, a refreshed cabin interior, and improved noise insulation. Performance specs (range, speed, engines) are effectively identical. The CJ3+ commands a slight charter premium of $300 to $400 per flight hour.
Can the Citation CJ3 land at short-runway airports?
Yes. The CJ3 requires approximately 3,400 feet of runway at sea level under standard conditions, which opens many smaller airports unavailable to midsize jets. This is particularly valuable for Caribbean island routes where runway lengths vary significantly.
Can the Citation CJ3 fly to St. Barts?
No. Gustaf III Airport (TFFJ) in St. Barts has a 2,133-foot runway, one of the shortest in private aviation use. The CJ3 can operate into nearby Princess Juliana Intl Airport (TNCM), where a short transfer by turbo prop can be arranged. Confirm crew qualifications with the operator before booking.
What is the Citation CJ3's cruise speed?
The Citation CJ3 cruises at 480 mph (417 knots true airspeed) at altitude, or Mach 0.737. Typical charter missions run Mach 0.70 to 0.72, making total gate-to-gate time 10 to 15 minutes longer than block time estimates on most routes.
When should I choose a midsize jet over the Citation CJ3?
Choose a midsize jet when: your group exceeds 6 passengers, you have significant luggage, your route exceeds 1,725 miles (1,500 nm) nonstop, or in-flight comfort on routes over 2 hours is a priority. The Citation XLS+ is the natural next step above the CJ3.
Is Hogani Jets a direct air carrier?
No. Hogani Jets is an air charter broker and does not own or operate aircraft. All Citation CJ3 charters are facilitated through licensed Part 135 direct air carriers, who maintain full operational control and regulatory compliance for every flight.
About Us
Hogani Jets was built on a simple belief: real luxury is quiet, personal, and effortless. We work with a curated fleet and a small client base so we can give every journey the attention it deserves.
Instant Charter Estimate
Compare Aircraft
Compare private jet categories side by side, range, cabin, passenger capacity, and hourly cost to find the right aircraft for your mission and route.
Your Guide: Hogani Jets Uncensored
Hogani Jets Uncensored: Submit your details for your free guide to private jet programs, honest truths, pricing and more.
