The debut of the Citation II in the light business jet market marked a revolutionary moment. With a staggering 1,000 jets sold within its first four years on the market and a remarkable sixteen-year manufacturing run, it proudly holds the title of Cessna’s best-selling private jet to date.

During the Citation II’s introduction, a prevailing trend in the aviation industry involved competing to create the heaviest, most intricate, and challenging-to-operate jets. In stark contrast, the Citation II boldly departed from this norm by implementing straightforward systems and efficient manufacturing techniques, resulting in a significant reduction in both operational and acquisition costs. Its unwavering commitment to simplicity and economy quickly gained favor among pilots and jet owners, leading to a complete transformation of design trends throughout the private jet industry.

The Citation II stands out as a preferred choice for its no-nonsense design, a trait that shines most brilliantly in its cockpit. Upon the Citation II’s launch, Business and Commercial Aviation magazine lauded its cockpit as the “best human-factored cockpit in general aviation.”

The cockpit delivers an impressive 340 degrees of visibility and hosts intuitive controls for critical systems such as fuel management and de-icing. Furthermore, the Citation II can be configured for single-pilot operation, a feature that not only reduces travel and operating costs but also grants greater flexibility in flight planning.

One of the Citation II’s defining attributes is its superb handling, primarily attributed to its utilization of a straight wing design. This not only fortifies the jet against Dutch rolls induced by strong gusts but also enhances the lift-to-angle-of-attack ratio, making takeoffs and landings a breeze.

While the Citation II’s systems are renowned for their simplicity, they unequivocally meet the highest safety standards. This aircraft holds certification under FAR Part 25 airworthiness standards, the same exacting standards mandated for behemoths like the Boeing 747.

The Citation series brought about a remarkable transformation in the private jet industry, a shift for the better that left an indelible mark. So influential was this impact that the president of Cessna received the prestigious Collier Trophy, a national accolade honoring major achievements in aviation advancement.

In summary, the Citation II didn’t merely outperform the competition; it redefined the way private jets compete. Its blend of flexibility and economy renders it an irresistibly attractive option.