The Citation CJ3+: a straightforward light jet for European trips
The CJ3+ is Cessna's mid-range light jet, certified in 2014. Its successor, the CJ3 Gen2, entered service in January 2026, and a CJ3 Gen3 first flew in July 2026. The cabin is the same throughout, and many CJ3+ aircraft fly in charter fleets.
Inside the CJ3+
The cabin is 4.78 m long, 1.47 m wide and 1.45 m high. Up to nine can be seated, but most layouts have six club seats. A belted lavatory is standard, so it can be used as an extra seat for take-off and landing.
Baggage capacity is 65 cubic feet, or 1.84 m³, up to 454 kg.
CJ3+: range and runway
Cessna quotes 2,040 nm at a maximum cruise of 416 kt, without stating the load. With a full cabin and luggage, plan on less. Take-off needs about 969 m and landing about 844 m. It is certified for single-pilot operation.
Which of our routes the CJ3+ suits
London to Nice, London to Geneva and London to Cannes are all short legs for it. The short runway figure also helps at smaller Riviera and Alpine airports. London to Ibiza is well within range.
The CJ3+ against its class siblings
The Phenom 300E is faster, at 464 kt, and has more baggage space. The Learjet 75 Liberty is faster again. The CJ3+ is the simpler, economical choice for four to six passengers on legs of two hours or so.
How much does it cost to charter a Cessna Citation CJ3+?
As a class guide, light jet charter runs £2,400–£3,200 per flight hour. The figure you pay is a single fixed all-in quote for the whole trip — aircraft, crew, positioning and fees — confirmed in writing before you commit, usually within minutes.
How many passengers does a Cessna Citation CJ3+ carry?
Up to 7 passengers, with roughly 6 bags and a 1.45 m cabin. Enclosed lavatory.
How far can a Cessna Citation CJ3+ fly nonstop?
About 2,040 nm at ~416 kt cruise — see the Light jet class guide for the routes this class covers.
