Cessna Citation CJ4
Turbofan • twin engine • Low Wing • Retractable gear
Range Visualization
Origin: · click map to move · nm at current load
Payload vs. Range
Customize assumptions
Default: 190 lbs (FAA standard)
Default: 30 lbs
Mission Profile
- High-Altitude
- Pressurization
- Multi-Engine
- Instrument
About the Cessna Citation CJ4
The Cessna Citation CJ4 (Model 525C) represents the pinnacle of the CitationJet family, effectively blurring the line between light and midsize jets. While it shares the 525 DNA, it is a significant departure from the CJ3, featuring a brand-new 12.5-degree swept wing (derived from the Sovereign) and more powerful Williams FJ44-4A engines. As of 2026, the CJ4 Gen3 continues to be the largest and fastest aircraft certified for single-pilot operations, offering a ‘no-compromise’ solution for high-end owner-operators.
Key Features for GA Buyers
- Single-Pilot Apex: The CJ4 is the largest jet you can legally fly without a co-pilot, making it the ultimate goal for many owner-operators. The Gen3 models further enhance safety with Garmin Autothrottles and Emergency Autoland.
- Swept-Wing Speed: Unlike the straight-wing CJ1-CJ3, the CJ4’s swept wing allows for a maximum cruise of 451 KTAS (Mach 0.77), putting it in direct competition with much larger midsize jets.
- Single-Point Refueling: A major quality-of-life improvement for GA operations, allowing for faster turnarounds and easier handling at FBOs compared to smaller light jets.
- Mission Versatility: With a 2,165 nm range and excellent short-field performance (3,410 ft TOFL), it can fly non-stop from Chicago to Los Angeles while still accessing smaller regional airports.
Trade-offs
- Operating Costs: The increased weight and larger engines lead to a higher fuel burn (approx. 210-220 GPH) compared to the smaller CJ3.
- Weight/Licensing: With an MTOW of 17,110 lbs, it is well above the 12,500 lb ‘large aircraft’ threshold, requiring a specific type rating and rigorous annual training.
- Runway Sensitivity: While still impressive, the swept wing is slightly less forgiving on very short or contaminated runways compared to the ‘straight-wing’ simplicity of the CJ1 or CJ2.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions & Weights
- Length
- 53.3 ft
- Parking area (ft2)
- 3602.94 ft2
- Max Takeoff Weight
- 17,110 lbs
- Max Landing Weight
- 15,660 lbs
- Useful Load
- 6,930 lbs
- Fuel Capacity
- 870 gal
Performance
- Cruise Speed
- 451 KTAS
- Never-Exceed (Vne)
- 305 KIAS
- Max Structural Cruise (Vno)
- 305 KIAS
- Approach Speed
- 98 KIAS
- Stall, Clean (Vs1)
- 95 KIAS
- Range
- 2165 NM
- Service Ceiling
- 45,000 ft
- Rate of Climb
- 1248 - 3854 fpm
- Takeoff over 50 ft obstacle
- 3,410 ft
- Landing ground roll
- 2,940 ft
Similar to the Cessna Citation CJ4
Cessna Citation CJ3
Cessna Citation CJ2
Cessna Citation II/Bravo
Bombardier Learjet 55
Learjet 70
Bombardier Learjet 25
Learjet 75
Bombardier Learjet 45
Bombardier Learjet 35/36
Cessna Excel/XLS
See how the Cessna Citation CJ4 stacks up against similar aircraft