As you step into the cockpit of the Citation M2, you quickly realize you are surrounded by sophistication and luxury packed into Cessna’s smallest CitationJet aircraft. While it may be the smallest member of the CitationJet family, the M2 does not compromise on performance or comfort.
Its blend of efficiency, capability and amenities makes it a top choice in the light jet category. Tracing the lineage of the M2 provides insight into how Cessna engineered their smallest jet to balance utility and indulgence.
From the original Citation Jet to the upgraded CJ1 and now the M2, Cessna has honed this aircraft to meet the needs of discerning private jet owners and operators. A deep dive into the M2 reveals an aircraft built for today’s jetsetter who refuses to sacrifice style or substance.
History and Development of the Citation M2 Jet
Origins of the CJ1
The Citation M2 has its origins in the original CitationJet Model, the CJ1. This first light business jet from Cessna was produced from 1993 to 2011, offering an efficient and cost-effective option for corporate travel.
After a brief hiatus, Cessna’s engineers got to work on modernizing and upgrading this popular design. The result was the M2 – a comprehensively updated successor bringing new engines, avionics, and design enhancements to the venerable CJ1 platform.
Prototype & Certification
Work began on the Citation M2 prototype in the late 2000s as CJ1 production was winding down. This upgraded variant featured new Williams FJ44-1AP-21 turbofan engines, Garmin G3000 avionics, and distinctive winglets for improved aerodynamics.
The M2 prototype had its first flight on March 9, 2012. After a rigorous certification program, the aircraft entered service in 2013 as the latest addition to Cessna’s Model 525 lineup (from serial 800 and on).
Replacing the Mustang
With its modern design and enhanced performance, the M2 effectively replaced Cessna’s Citation Mustang as the entry-level business jet in their lineup. While the Mustang was discontinued, the M2 carried on the legacy of providing an efficient light jet tailored for corporate and private travel.
The Citation M2 combined the best qualities of its CJ1 predecessor – efficiency, range, cabin comfort – with cutting-edge upgrades. This made it an attractive option for owner-pilots, corporations, and charter companies seeking a capable yet cost-effective business jet.
Key Design Features of the Citation M2
Optimized Aerodynamics
The Citation M2 boasts a sleek, aerodynamic design to maximize fuel efficiency and speed. Its distinctive swept-wing planform, coupled with newly added winglets, reduces induced drag – allowing for higher cruise speeds and extended range. The aircraft’s tapered fuselage and streamlined nose further enhance its aerodynamic profile, cutting through the air with minimal resistance.
Powerful yet Efficient Engines
At the heart of the M2 lie two powerful yet fuel-efficient Williams FJ44-1AP-21 turbofan engines. These cutting-edge powerplants offer a perfect balance of thrust, economy, and reliability. With 1,965 pounds of thrust each, they propel the jet to its maximum cruise speed of 404 knots (748 km/h) while minimizing fuel consumption – a key factor in reducing operating costs.
Advanced Avionics Suite
The Citation M2 features the state-of-the-art Garmin G3000 avionics suite, providing pilots with a fully integrated flight deck. This advanced system consolidates all essential flight data onto large, high-resolution displays, enhancing situational awareness and reducing workload. Additionally, the G3000 suite offers sophisticated navigation, communication, and surveillance capabilities, ensuring safe and efficient operations.
Spacious and Comfortable Cabin
Despite its compact size, the M2 boasts a surprisingly spacious and comfortable cabin. Designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, it offers ample headroom, legroom, and storage space. The cabin’s luxurious appointments, including leather seating, wood veneer accents, and advanced lighting systems, create an inviting and relaxing environment for both business and leisure travel.
Exceptional Performance and Range
The Citation M2 delivers exceptional performance and range for its class. With a maximum range of 1,550 nautical miles (2,870 km), it can easily handle transcontinental flights or non-stop hops across the United States. Additionally, its impressive climb rate and high operating ceiling allow for efficient cruising altitudes, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride.
Citation M2 Performance and Specifications
Powerful Engines
The Citation M2 is powered by two Williams International FJ44-1AP-21 turbofan engines. These provide a combined thrust of 2,965 lbs, giving the aircraft impressive performance capabilities. With a maximum cruise speed of 404 knots (748 km/h), the M2 can swiftly transport passengers to their destination.
Long-Range Capability
Despite being Cessna’s smallest Citation jet, the M2 boasts an impressive range of 1,550 nautical miles (2,870 km). This allows non-stop flights from Los Angeles to Chicago or New York to Mexico City. The aircraft’s efficient winglets contribute to its long-range and fuel-saving performance.
Spacious Cabin
The Citation M2’s cabin measures 11 feet (3.4 m) in length, 4.8 feet (1.5 m) in height, and 4.8 feet (1.5 m) in width. It can comfortably accommodate up to 6 passengers in an executive configuration. Innovative side-facing seats provide extra legroom and cabin accessibility.
Advanced Avionics
The M2 features the Garmin G3000 avionics suite with touchscreen controls. This state-of-the-art system includes navigation, communication, surveillance and air data solutions. It provides pilots with enhanced situational awareness and safety capabilities.
Key Specifications
- Maximum Range: 1,550 nm (2,870 km)
- Maximum Cruise Speed: 404 kts (748 km/h)
- Service Ceiling: 41,000 ft (12,497 m)
- Engines: 2 x Williams FJ44-1AP-21 turbofans
- Cabin Length: 11 ft (3.4 m)
- Cabin Height: 4.8 ft (1.5 m)
- Cabin Width: 4.8 ft (1.5 m)
The Citation M2 packs impressive performance into a lightweight, fuel-efficient package. Its blend of power, range, cabin comfort and advanced avionics make it an excellent choice for business travel or private flights.
Citation M2 Interior and Amenities
Sleek and Modern Cabin Design
The cabin of the Citation M2 is designed for both style and comfort. With seating for up to 7 passengers, the cabin features an executive club arrangement. Plush leather seats and wood accents create a sophisticated atmosphere.
Large cabin windows let in ample natural light, while LED lighting provides a warm ambiance. The cabin is climate-controlled for optimal comfort during every flight.
Generous Baggage Capacity
Despite its size as the smallest Citation jet, the M2 has a generous baggage capacity. The internal baggage compartment can hold up to 15.7 cubic feet of luggage. An additional exterior baggage compartment provides 24 cubic feet of space.
This allows plenty of room for luggage, golf bags, skis, and any other gear you need for your travels. No need to sacrifice luxury or convenience on this light jet.
Advanced In-Flight Amenities
The Citation M2 is equipped with the latest in-flight technologies to keep you productive and entertained. The cabin management system provides controls for the cabin environment, lighting, and entertainment options. High-speed internet allows you to stay connected throughout your journey.
You can stream movies, work remotely, or just stay in touch. The M2 brings the modern office or home theater to the skies. With its stylish yet practical design, the cabin of the Citation M2 combines comfort and utility. From generous baggage space to cutting-edge amenities, it delivers a first-class experience in Cessna’s lightest private jet.
Operating Costs and Ownership Considerations
Fuel and Maintenance Costs
The Citation M2 has relatively low operating costs compared to larger business jets. Its two Williams FJ44-1AP-21 turbofan engines burn approximately 150-160 gallons of Jet-A fuel per hour. At current prices around $6 per gallon, that equates to $900-960 per hour in fuel expenses.
For maintenance, Cessna recommends budgeting $600-800 per hour for inspections, routine upkeep, and periodic overhauls. Overall direct operating costs are typically $1,500-1,800 per flight hour.
Charter Costs
Chartering a Citation M2 is an attractive option. Haute Jets, an on-demand charter provider, lists pricing starting around $3,500 per hour for the M2. This covers all operating costs with the convenience of not owning the asset outright.
While more expensive per flight hour, chartering avoids major upfront capital and fixed costs. It provides private jet travel capabilities without the full commitment of ownership.
Citation Jet FAQs
What is the Citation M2?
The Citation M2 is the smallest business jet in Cessna’s Citation family. It’s a light jet designed for shorter flights, seating up to 7 passengers. The M2 is an upgraded version of the original CitationJet (later called the CJ1) – featuring more powerful engines, modern avionics, and improved aerodynamics with winglets.
Why choose the Citation M2?
As an entry-level private jet, the M2 offers an exceptional blend of performance, efficiency, and comfort. Its range of over 1,500 miles and top speed of 404 knots make it ideal for regional business travel. Yet it burns less fuel than comparable light jets thanks to its efficient design.
The cabin is also surprisingly spacious for its size, with a flat floor, generous headroom, and an enclosed lavatory. Haute Jets clients rave about the Citation M2’s smooth ride quality.
How much does it cost to charter a Citation M2?
Hourly charter rates for the Citation M2 typically range from $2,500 to $4,000+, depending on routing, scheduling, and other factors. However, chartering provides access to this exceptional jet at a fraction of the multi-million dollar ownership cost.
Is the Citation M2 still in production?
No, Cessna ceased M2 production in 2018 after delivering over 200 aircraft. However, the jet remains highly popular for charter flights due to its performance and value proposition. Haute Jets maintains a dedicated fleet of well-appointed, impeccably maintained Citation M2 jets.
Conclusion
As you can see, the Citation M2 is an important aircraft in Cessna’s CitationJet family. With upgraded engines, avionics, and efficiency enhancing winglets, the Citation M2 improved on the original CJ1 design. It fills an important niche as Cessna’s entry-level jet. The Citation M2 combines the convenience of a light jet with the quality and reliability expected from Cessna.
If you are considering purchasing a light business jet, be sure to take a close look at the Citation M2. With its blend of performance, efficiency, and comfort, it makes an attractive option to meet your private aviation needs.
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