Cessna Citation Mustang
The Cessna Citation Mustang was launched in 2007 and was the first ever Very Light Jet (VLJ) on the market. Cessna believed they had found a gap in the private charter industry and, if the Mustang's success is anything to go by, they were right. Since 2005, over 350 of these extremely popular jets have been produced and delivered to operators, and Embraer and Honda have both reacted and launched competing VLJs. Although these are marginally larger than the Mustang, its cabin is still comfortable and seats 4 passengers. Furthermore, this aircraft offers excellent value for money, frequently being the most affordable jet on the market and often beating turboprop aircraft in terms of price. All things considered, the Mustang is perfectly suited for intra-European short-haul flights, same-day business flights and weekend excursions.
Very Light Jet
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cessna |
| Category | Very Light Jet |
| Range* | 2161 km 1167 NM |
| Cruise speed | 628 km/h 339 kts |
| Seats** | 4 |
| Suitcases | 4 |
* with IFR reserves
** in standard configuration
Aircraft Pictures
History
Cessna developed the Citation Mustang as an entry-level very light jet to make business aviation more accessible to owner-pilots. The aircraft made its first flight in 2005, targeting the growing VLJ market with Citation reliability and single-pilot capability.
The Mustang received FAA certification in 2006 and entered service the same year, representing Cessna's first venture into the very light jet category. The aircraft featured simplified systems while maintaining the Citation family's reputation for safety and operational ease.
Designed for single-pilot operations, the Mustang appealed to owner-operators seeking Citation quality in a smaller package. The aircraft featured modern avionics and efficient Pratt & Whitney Canada engines optimized for short to medium-range missions.
Production continued for over a decade, with deliveries running from 2006 to 2017. The Mustang played an important role in expanding business aviation accessibility, offering a stepping stone into jet ownership for many operators. The aircraft contributed to Cessna's dominance in the business jet market, helping the Citation family achieve over 8,000 deliveries by 2022.
FAQ
Can the Citation Mustang operate from smaller airports?
Yes. The Citation Mustang was designed for short-field performance, with a typical takeoff distance of about 948 m (3,110 ft) and a landing distance of approximately 725 m (2,380 ft) at sea level. This enables charters into regional airports such as Sion or Cannes Mandelieu, which are closer to resorts and city centres. In addition, the aircraft received steep-approach certification from EASA in 2007, permitting operations at challenging airports including London City and Lugano, which require special descent profiles.
How does the Citation Mustang compare to the Embraer Phenom 100?
The Citation Mustang and the Embraer Phenom 100 are both very light jets designed for short trips, but they differ in size and performance. The Mustang typically seats four passengers and has a range of about 2,161 km (1,167 nm), while the Phenom 100 usually seats four to five and extends range to around 2,182 km (1,178 nm). Cruise speed is higher on the Phenom 100 at 722 km/h (390 kts), compared with the Mustang’s 630 km/h (340 kts). The Phenom also provides a slightly larger cabin and baggage allowance, while the Mustang remains valued for its efficiency and lower operating costs on short-haul charters.
Is the Citation Mustang still available for private charter?
Although production ended in 2017, many Citation Mustangs remain active in the charter market. They are valued for their reliability, efficiency, and affordability on shorter routes.
What is the range of the Citation Mustang?
The Citation Mustang can fly up to 2,161 km (1,167 nm), depending on payload and conditions. This allows nonstop routes such as Paris to Rome or Geneva to Madrid. For charter clients, this makes it a practical choice for European city pairs and leisure destinations within a few hours’ flight time.
Is the Citation Mustang more cost-effective than the Phenom 100 or the HondaJet?
Yes. The Citation Mustang is generally the most cost-effective choice among very light jets when flying with up to four passengers on short routes. Its operating costs are lower than both the Embraer Phenom 100 and the HondaJet, which are larger and faster but more expensive to run. For charter clients seeking economical private travel on regional flights, the Mustang usually provides the best value.
