Charter a Citation I
Range
2,459 km
Speed
661 km/h
Passenger seats
5 Seats
Category
Light Jets
Cessna Citation I Overview
The Cessna Citation I is a light business jet by Cessna and one of the founding models of the Citation family. Developed from the original FanJet 500, it was certified in 1971, upgraded as the Citation I in 1976 and later offered as the Citation I/SP single-pilot variant from 1977. With typical seating for up to 5 passengers, a range of approximately 2,459 km (1,328 nm) and a cruise speed of 661 km/h (357 kt), the Citation I is best suited to short regional private flights. Simply Jet recommends it for clients seeking an accessible light jet for efficient short-sector travel.
Aircraft Features
Range and Performance
The Citation I offers a range of approximately 2,459 km (1,328 nm) at 12,000 m (41,000 ft), based on listed performance with reserves and payload assumptions. Cruise speed is around 661 km/h (357 kt) at 11,000 m (35,000 ft), with a maximum speed of Mach 0.705. The aircraft’s straight-wing design prioritises controllable handling and runway access over higher cruise speeds, making it practical for shorter regional missions.
Cabin Comfort and Configuration
The Citation I accommodates up to 5 passengers, depending on configuration. The cabin measures approximately 3.86 m (12 ft 8 in) in length, 1.50 m (4 ft 11 in) in width and 1.32 m (4 ft 4 in) in height. Luggage capacity is listed at 1.61 m³ (57 ft³), although final acceptance depends on layout, passenger load and operator policy.
Onboard Amenities
Depending on configuration and refurbishment standard, the Citation I may include club seating, forward-facing seats, fold-out tables, a compact refreshment area and basic cabin storage. Some aircraft may also feature an aft lavatory or updated interiors, depending on individual aircraft history. The cabin is designed for short flights where passengers need a private, efficient and straightforward travel environment rather than a large stand-up cabin.
Technology and Flight Deck
The Citation I is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-1B turbofan engines, each rated at approximately 9.8 kN (2,200 lbf) of thrust. Avionics vary considerably across the fleet due to age and upgrades, with many aircraft modernised from original analogue instrumentation to newer navigation, communication and transponder equipment. The Citation I/SP variant was certified for single-pilot operations, a key feature for its category.
Cessna Citation I Certification
The FanJet 500 prototype first flew on 15 September 1969 and was certified as the Cessna 500 Citation on 9 September 1971. The improved Citation I was introduced in 1976 with increased gross weight, improved JT15D-1A engines, a wider wingspan and better operating ceiling. The 501 Citation I/SP, certified for single-pilot operation, followed in 1977. Production ended in 1985, with 689 aircraft of all variants produced, and the design later evolved into the Citation II.
How much does it cost to charter a Cessna Citation I?
Prices to charter a private jet will start on average as low as 5,500€ to up to 13,000€ an hour. The actual charter price will be significantly impacted by various factors, such as the size of the aircraft, the lead time before takeoff, the flight time, the positioning of flights and other factors that your advisors take into account while building your offers. Here are some popular routes with price estimates for a Cessna Citation I included:
| Cessna Citation I | ||||
| From | Ancona | Rome | Figari | Milan |
| To | Skopje | Cagliari | Naples | Lisbon |
| Aircraft Category | Light Jet | Light Jet | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Flight Time | 1h 11min | 0h 44min | 0h 47min | 2h 42min |
| Price | 7,800 | 7,800 | 7,800 | 11,300 |
| Passengers | 6-8 | 6-8 | 6-8 | 6-8 |
About the Manufacturer
Cessna
Cessna, an American aircraft manufacturer based in Wichita, Kansas, is renowned for its long-standing expertise in designing reliable and efficient business and general aviation aircraft. As part of Textron Aviation, Cessna has built a strong reputation for producing versatile jets like the Citation series, which combines comfort, performance, and operational flexibility. Its focus on innovation and dependable design makes it a trusted choice for regional and business travel worldwide.
Why choose Simply Jet
At Simply Jet, we redefine reliability and convenience in private aviation.
What sets us apart from other private jet brokers is our unique approach to customer service and excellence, rooted in the values of our founding members—all proud alumni of the globally renowned Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL). We place great emphasis on creating an exceptional experience for our clients, strengthened by the deep passion for hospitality that forms the foundation of our culture. Our in-depth understanding of private aviation and fervour for delivering impeccable service are at your disposal around the clock.
Specialising in exceptional hospitality and noteworthy service, we are the leading choice for discerning private jet travellers. We offer the following services:
