Cessna Citation II/SP
Jet • twin engine • Low Wing • Retractable gear
Range Visualization
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Payload vs. Range
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Default: 190 lbs (FAA standard)
Default: 30 lbs
Passengers
lbs
@ lbs / pax
0 lbs
Fuel on board
gal
+ Weight
Range
Available Range
/ nm
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Mission Profile
374
KTAS
Cruise Speed
10
Occupants
1520
nm
Max Range
-530
lbs
Wet Payload
About the Cessna Citation II/SP
Cessna Citation II/SP (Model 551)
The Citation II/SP is the single-pilot version of the popular Model 550 Citation II. By certifying the aircraft under FAR Part 23 standards (restricting the MTOW to 12,500 lbs), Cessna enabled owner-operators to fly a high-performance jet without the requirement for a second-in-command, revolutionized the light jet market.
Key Features for GA Buyers
- Single-Pilot Operation: The primary draw for owner-operators, significantly reducing crew costs and increasing scheduling flexibility.
- Docile Handling: Its straight-wing design provides excellent low-speed handling and stability, making it a relatively easy transition for pilots moving up from high-performance turboprops.
- Airport Access: With a landing distance of well under 3,000 feet, the II/SP can utilize thousands of smaller community airports that larger swept-wing jets must bypass.
- Spacious Cabin: Despite its ‘light jet’ classification, it often features a 7-8 passenger club seating arrangement and a private aft lavatory.
Trade-offs
- Weight Limitations: To stay within the 12,500 lb single-pilot limit, the II/SP has a lower MTOW than the standard Citation II. Carrying a full load of passengers often necessitates a significant reduction in fuel, limiting range.
- Speed: The straight wing that provides great short-field performance also limits top-end cruise speed to around 370-380 knots, slower than contemporary swept-wing competitors.
- Avionics Upgrades: Many older 551s still have legacy cockpit tech; buyers should look for units with Garmin G600/G700 or GTN upgrades to meet modern ADS-B and navigation requirements.
Technical Specifications
Dimensions
- Wingspan
- 51.7 ft
- Length
- 47.2 ft
- Height
- 15.0 ft
Weights
- Max Takeoff Weight
- 12,500 lbs
- Max Landing Weight
- 12,000 lbs
- Useful Load
- 4,441 lbs
- Fuel Capacity
- 742 gal
Performance
- Cruise Speed
- 374 KTAS
- Range
- 1520 NM
- Service Ceiling
- 43,000 ft
- Rate of Climb
- 3040 fpm
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