Light Jet Charter
The aircraft that founded the Citation family, still flying strong.
Why Charter This Aircraft
A budget-friendly light jet, perfect for short regional hops.
Single-pilot certified with decades of dependable service.
Takes off on runways under 3,500 ft.
Development & Background
The Cessna Citation I, introduced in 1972, was the founding member of the Citation business jet family. At the time — and even today on the pre-owned market — it offered operators and charter clients a safe, efficient, and economical entry into jet travel.
Despite being an early-generation jet, many Citation I and I/SP aircraft remain active in regional charter service today, proving the timeless appeal of a simple, capable light jet — as long as maintenance stays current and the aircraft remains airworthy.
"The Citation I was the perfect fit for our quick Dallas–Houston trip. Boarding and departure were fast, and the price was unbeatable for a private jet."
"Flying single-pilot in the I/SP felt seamless. The aircraft got us into a small regional airport only 15 minutes from our client's facility."
Specifications
| Feature | Citation I | Citation I/SP |
|---|---|---|
| Engines | 2 × Pratt & Whitney JT15D-1 | 2 × Pratt & Whitney JT15D-1A |
| Max Cruise Speed | ~350 knots (648 km/h) | ~350 knots |
| Typical Range (4 pax) | ~1,000 nm (1,850 km) | ~1,000 nm |
| Max Operating Altitude | 41,000 ft | 41,000 ft |
| Typical Seating | 5–6 passengers | 5–6 passengers |
| Crew | 2 pilots | Single-pilot certified |
| Baggage Volume | ~40 cu ft | Same |
Cabin & Interior Experience
This isn't as spacious as later Citation models, but it's an excellent choice for short regional hops under 300 miles — a quick charter from Houston to Dallas, Chicago to Kansas City, Los Angeles to Las Vegas, or Miami to Nassau.
The cabin seats 5 to 6 passengers, standing 4 ft 3 in tall and 4 ft 9 in wide, with fold-out tables, a refreshment console, and a basic belted lavatory.
Capabilities & Performance
The Citation I & I/SP can be found pre-owned for roughly $500,000–$750,000, with an average annual operating cost of $750,000–$900,000 over 200 hours a year, and average hourly operating costs of $2,700–$3,100.
As a 2-pilot aircraft, hired pilots typically train through CAE or FlightSafety, with second-in-command pilots around 800 total flight hours and captains around 1,500. The single-pilot I/SP variant is usually flown by pilots with insurance minimums close to 500 hours in type. Charter operations rely on Argus/Wyvern safety certifications to ensure qualified pilots.
Charter Pricing
| Pre-Owned Price | $500,000 – $750,000 |
| Annual Operating Cost (200 hrs/yr) | $750,000 – $900,000 |
| Average Hourly Operating Cost | $2,700 – $3,100/hr |
Estimates only — actual pricing varies by operator availability, seasonality, and routing. Request a quote for an exact rate.
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