The Cessna Citation M2, a distinguished member of the Citation family, represents the epitome of light business jets crafted by Cessna. This remarkable series made its debut in October 1989 when the Model 525 took to the skies for its maiden flight on April 29, 1991. The Federal Aviation Administration recognized its excellence by granting certification on October 16, 1992, paving the way for its inaugural delivery on March 30, 1993.

Powered by two Williams FJ44 engines, the Citation M2 seamlessly blends the forward fuselage of the Citation II with innovative updates, including a new carry-through section, wing, and T-tail. It’s important to note the evolution of this series; the foundational CitationJet model evolved into the CJ1/CJ1+/M2 variants. Additionally, the CJ1 saw expansion into the CJ2/CJ2+ models, delivered from 2000 to 2016, followed by further enhancement leading to the CJ3/CJ3+ delivered from December 2004. The lineage culminates in the CJ4, which has been delighting passengers since 2010. Impressively, by June 2017, a staggering 2,000 units across all variants had been successfully delivered.

The Citation M2 boasts an exceptional performance profile, with a range that allows for extensive journeys. It can cover 1,183 nautical miles with the NBAA 4Pax IFR Reserves at 200 NM Altitude. This jet can comfortably accommodate a maximum payload of 1,510 pounds, enabling flexibility in cargo or passenger configurations. Even at maximum payload, it maintains an impressive range of 751 nautical miles. With a full tank of fuel, it retains the capability to carry a payload of 514 pounds.

Taking off from sea level under standard atmospheric conditions (ISA) requires a mere 3,210 feet of runway, making it versatile in various airport settings. Furthermore, the Citation M2 excels in takeoff performance at higher altitudes, needing only 132 feet of runway at 5,000 feet elevation with a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. Its landing distance at sea level under ISA conditions is 2,340 feet.

This exceptional jet achieves remarkable speeds in various flight regimes. With a maximum cruise speed of 401 knots true airspeed, it allows passengers to reach their destinations swiftly. On long-range journeys, the Citation M2 maintains an impressive long-range cruise speed of 323 knots true airspeed. For shorter trips of 300 nautical miles, it can sustain a trip speed of 52 minutes, while 600 nautical miles can be covered in just 98 minutes, and 1,000 nautical miles in 162 minutes.

The Citation M2 soars to a maximum certified altitude of 41,000 feet, providing a smooth and efficient ride. Fuel efficiency remains a hallmark of this jet, with a cost per gallon of $7.05 and a fuel consumption rate of 142 US gallons per hour. Over a 600 nautical mile journey, it burns 1,362 US gallons.

The interior of the Citation M2 is thoughtfully designed, offering comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. The cabin volume, totaling 253 cubic feet, ensures ample space for passengers to relax and work during the flight. While it doesn’t feature a flat floor, it maximizes the available space efficiently.

Operating costs for the Citation M2 are well-balanced, with variable costs per hour amounting to $2,977. This includes fuel, maintenance labor, parts, maintenance programs, and miscellaneous trip costs. Annual fixed costs encompass insurance, maintenance software, miscellaneous services, periodic costs, training expenses, facilities costs, and personnel costs, resulting in a total annual cost of $1,132,302.

In conclusion, the Cessna Citation M2 stands as a testament to excellence in the realm of light business jets. Its remarkable range, payload capacity, and performance characteristics, coupled with efficient operating costs, make it a preferred choice for those seeking a versatile and reliable aircraft for both short and long-range missions.