Cessna’s CJ range has expanded, for the last two decades, over the continued success in meeting middle-of-the-road jet travelers’ need for consistency and economy. There are few names around the rival the goodwill of the Cessna badge, and the company has broadened its appeal for single-pilot aircraft into the light business jet sector through the CJ family.

The CJ3 is a stretch extension on the Citation CJ2 predecessor, and the second-hand market hosts a recent revival for CJ3 offers and trades amongst small and mid-sized enterprises looking to add a reliable runner into their executive fleet. These trades won’t flood the market; the Aviation Buyer’s guide estimates there estimates a total of 29 aircraft in shared and leased ownership available for charter. Fully privately-owned CJ3s reside (in 90% majority) mainly in the US and European markets.

Cessna’s thinking with the CJ3 has mainly manifested itself on the low wings and T-tail, aiding the low-drag flight performance and bolstering the fuel economy sustained by the efficient powertrain. The two rear fuselage-mounted turbofan powered engines are Williams International FJ44-3A engines that are commonly found powering light jets on the premise of flying farther for less fuel. This setup contributes to an overall cruise speed of 480 mph and a maximum flight range of 2,158 miles.

Although the CJ3 operates under single-pilot certification, there is a two member cabin space and a total passenger seating of 9 in the pressurized cabin. The total cabin space comes with over 15 foot of room as standard, which is an extension of 2ft over the CJ2 and nearly twice as much over the original CJ. Interior cabin luxuries are on the light side, as expected, with reclining seats and a small drinks bar the most anyone is likely to get by way of entertainment alongside the main panel overhead TY screen. The emphasis is very much on spaciousness and comfort, making the most of the light jet’s setup in order to make you feel you’re not compromising on a comfortable flight whilst negotiating access to the world’s extensive network of small airports and runways to steal a march in business.

Typically kitted out with a Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics system delivering the finishing emphasis on ease-of-access, Cessna Citation CJ3s in good or premium condition can go above the $8 million mark but it is not uncommon to find a must-go deal where the price will fall substantially. Either way, buyers into the Citation family are always supported by solid establishment behind the Cessna name providing a full-support worldwide service network for customers.