Aircraft Review: Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2

Source: Textron Aviation

Image Source: Cessna Media Kit

As with all Citation CJ models, the CJ4 Gen2 is certified for single-pilot operation. The CJ4 Gen2’s cockpit features the Collins Aerospace Pro Line 21 integrated avionics suite, which includes a synthetic vision system, data link and an integrated flight information system to enhance pilots’ situational awareness. The CJ4 Gen2 also incorporates the Collins Aerospace RTA-4112 MultiScan Weather Radar system, which uses multiple radar scans at preselected tilt angles to provide short-, mid- and long-range weather detection, enabling pilots to detect and navigate around weather systems.

Other standard features in the CJ4 Gen2 cockpit include:

• Dual Primary Flight Displays
• Dual Multifunction Displays
• Single Flight Management System with GPS Navigation
• Integrated Crew Alerting System
• Integrated Electronic Checklists
• Dual Attitude Heading Reference Systems
• XM Broadcast Graphical Weather
• Mark VIII Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System
• Traffic, Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) II

The Citation CJ4 Gen2 offers a variety of cabin configurations and can accommodate up to nine passengers. For the purposes of this review, we’ll focus on the standard configuration, which can seat seven passengers.

Image Source: Cessna

Upon boarding the aircraft, passengers will see a single side-facing seat (which can be replaced with an optional couch with built-in storage) directly in front of them, and a small forward galley with cabinet storage, ice storage, hot tank, extendable work surface and power outlet setup. Compared to the original CJ4, the CJ4 Gen2’s staircase folds up without compromising leg space and features a folding handrail and individual lighting for each step.

Image Source: Cessna Media Kit

The main cabin is fitted with four executive-style seats arranged in a club configuration around retractable tables. Each fully reclinable seat offers forward and aft floor tracking and 180-degree swivel, allowing for a greater range of movement and providing added comfort. Each seat also features stowable arm rests, a pre-lit cup holder and a built-in USB charger. Behind this initial set of four seats is an additional row of seating, with two individual seats.

Image Source: Cessna Media Kit

A small aft lavatory sits beyond the final row of seating, replete with sink, vacuum toilet with upholstered and padded lid, storage compartments, vanity mirror and a handle for hanging clothes. The lavatory also features CoolView skylights, making the space feel more open, and is externally serviceable for greater convenience and ease of maintenance.

Image Source: Cessna Media Kit

Textron offers an array of preset interior design options for the CJ4 Gen2 in six color schemes, including sandstone, jet black and glacier. Prospective buyers can also completely customize their aircraft’s interior with support from Textron’s in-house design center.

The Citation CJ4 Gen2’s wireless cabin management system (CMS) enables passengers to control LED lighting, window shades and cabin temperature directly from their seats. The aircraft features high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity and a 180GB media server, enabling passengers to easily stream content and stay connected while in-flight. The cabin also utilizes a Fresh Air filtration system, which draws air from outside the aircraft and through engines, killing pathogens and germs while keeping passengers cool and comfortable.

Image Source: Cessna

Both the CJ4 and CJ4 Gen2 are 21” longer than their predecessor, the CJ3, allowing for additional passenger legroom and a slightly larger cockpit. As with most aircraft in the CJ line, the CJ4 offers significant baggage space between its two baggage compartments, which are located in the forward and aft fuselage and are only accessible while on the ground. Textron replicated the performance of its Citation Sovereign wing design for the CJ4, resulting in considerable performance improvements over the CJ3.

The Citation CJ4 Gen2 is powered by two Williams International FJ44-4A turbofan engines. These lightweight engines provide a high thrust output relative to their weight and utilize a wide-chord swept fan, a single-stage high-pressure turbine and dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control {FADEC) system for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. These engines are derivative of those used in the CJ3 and offer additional thrust, giving the CJ4 added speed and range and reducing its time to climb.

At the time of this publication, there are very few pre-owned Citation CJ4 Gen2 aircraft available on the market. Production for the CJ4 Gen2 began in mid-2021, with approximately 89 produced to date. Conklin & de Decker places the value of a new CJ4 Gen2 at $12 million; pre-owned models are priced similarly. These market characteristics are primarily driven by Textron’s current production schedule, where buyers might experience some lead time before a new model is available.

Note: All direct operating costs listed are estimated; actual expenses will vary based on total annual flight hours.

Source: Conklin & de Decker

Note: All fixed costs listed are estimated; actual expenses may vary.

Source: Conklin & de Decker

Those in search of an aircraft capable of making short or medium-haul flights and that offers fuel efficiency, short field performance and comfortable amenities may find the CJ4 Gen2 to be a compelling choice. However, it’s important to carefully consider your travel requirements and weigh them against all available options before making an investment decision.

A qualified private aviation consultant can conduct a full transportation analysis, including travel profile assessment, mission analysis and operational review, to help you determine whether the CJ4 Gen2 is right for you. This assessment can identify potential alternatives to support your additional or unique travel requirements. At Essex Aviation, we typically recommend selecting an aircraft that can effectively meet at least 85% of your travel needs, and rely on chartering or other utilization models for the remainder.

Finally, a consultant can oversee the acquisition and completion management processes on your behalf, so that your Citation CJ4 Gen2 meets your exact specifications upon final delivery.

If you’re considering acquiring a Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2, your first step should be to reach out to a team of seasoned experts who can confidently navigate the intricacies of the private aviation industry. At Essex Aviation, we pride ourselves on offering holistic private consulting services, from in-depth transportation analysis to completion management. We’d be happy to help you find the ideal aircraft that meets your unique travel needs and requirements and to deliver comprehensive support and honest, unbiased guidance every step of the way.

Take the first step toward acquiring your very own CJ4 G2 — contact the Essex team today.