Cessna Citation X
For a long time, the Citation X (Ten), Cessna's flagship aircraft, held the record for the fastest civilian jet since Concorde. Although this accolade now belongs to the Gulfstream G650, the Citation X is still extremely fast, much more so than any other aircraft in its category of Super Midsize Jets. With a range of over 5600km, the Citation X is capable of intercontinental travel, flying non-stop from Dubai to Nice, for example. This excellent performance stems from oversized twin-turbo Rolls-Royce engines and the aircraft's intelligent design features, such as the easily recognizable profiled wing and winglets. Stylish and modern, the Citation X's interior provides all the amenities you would expect to find inside a state-of-the-art corporate jet. Up to 8 passengers fit inside the spacious cabin which features two Club 4 seating arrangements to provide a comfortable journey. In this way, the Citation X matches its exceptional performance with an enjoyable and relaxing flight experience.
Super Midsize Jet
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cessna |
| Category | Super Midsize Jet |
| Range* | 5741 km 3100 NM |
| Cruise speed | 952 km/h 514 kts |
| Seats** | 8 |
| Suitcases | 10 |
* with IFR reserves
** in standard configuration
Aircraft Pictures
History
Cessna announced the Citation X development at the NBAA Convention in New Orleans in October 1990, aiming to create the world's fastest civilian aircraft. The first prototype made its maiden flight on December 21, 1993, beginning an extensive test programme.
Certification proved challenging, with multiple delays as the airframe and engines struggled to meet FAA requirements. Originally scheduled for August 1995, certification was postponed several times before finally being achieved on June 3, 1996. The first Citation X was delivered in July 1996 to golfer Arnold Palmer, a longtime Cessna customer.
The Citation X achieved remarkable performance, with a cruise speed of 514 knots and maximum speed capability of Mach 0.92. At the time, it was the fastest civilian aircraft available, setting new standards for business jet performance.
Cessna introduced the upgraded Citation X+ in 2010, featuring new engines, Garmin G5000 avionics, and autothrottle system. The enhanced powerplants increased maximum cruise speed to Mach 0.935, further cementing the aircraft's position as the speed leader in business aviation and demonstrating Cessna's commitment to pushing performance boundaries.
FAQ
Can the Citation X fly nonstop across the Atlantic?
In ideal conditions (light payload, favourable winds, efficient routing), the Citation X / X+ can perform transatlantic legs. The Citation X+ notably completed a direct Atlantic crossing in test flight. But in commercial charter operations, full passenger/fuel loads and reserve requirements often necessitate a fuel stop en route for safety and regulatory compliance.
How comfortable is the Citation X cabin?
The cabin of the Citation X is 7.29 m (23.92 ft) long and designed for comfort at high speeds. It comes with adjustable leather seating, side consoles with power outlets, a refreshment centre, and a lavatory. Passengers benefit from a quiet environment despite the jet’s performance.
How does the Citation X compare to the Citation Longitude?
The Cessna Citation X is faster, with a top speed of Mach 0.92 (952 km/h / 514 kts) compared to the Longitude’s Mach 0.84 (882 km/h / 476 kts). The Citation Longitude, however, has more range at about 6,482 km (3,500 nm) versus the Citation X’s 5,762 km (3,111 nm). The Longitude also comes with a wider and taller cabin, providing more space for passengers.
Is the Citation X the fastest private jet?
The Cessna Citation X held the title of the world’s fastest business jet for many years, with a maximum speed of Mach 0.92. Its successor, the Citation X+, reached Mach 0.935, keeping Cessna at the top for a time. Today, Gulfstream’s G700 (Mach 0.935) matches that record, and Bombardier’s upcoming Global 8000 is expected to go even faster at Mach 0.94 once in service.
How fast is the Citation X during charter flights?
The Cessna Citation X is known as one of the fastest business jets ever built, with a cruise speed of about 952 km/h (514 kts), corresponding to Mach 0.92. This enables shorter travel times compared to many other midsize aircraft. A flight from Paris to Athens, for example, can take under three hours, while London to Dubai is usually completed in just over six hours.
