If you’ve ever wondered what a solid, reliable business jet looks like, the Cessna 550 (also known as the Citation II) is a great place to start. It’s not a flash super‑midsize, but it packs enough speed, range, and comfort for most corporate trips without breaking the bank.
The Cessna 550 boasts a Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-4 engine that pushes about 2,950 pounds of thrust per side. With a cruise speed of roughly 380 knots (about 440 mph) and a maximum range of 1,900 nautical miles, you can comfortably hop from London to Istanbul or New York to Miami on a single tank.
Its cabin measures roughly 5.2 × 4.7 × 4.9 feet, giving you a roomy feel for up to eight passengers. The cabin layout is flexible – you can have a conference set‑up, a relaxed lounge, or a mix of both. Noise levels stay low thanks to the well‑insulated fuselage, making it easier to hold a meeting or catch up on emails mid‑flight.
Pilots appreciate the Cessna 550’s straightforward handling. The flight deck uses conventional analog gauges, which many seasoned aviators find intuitive compared to newer glass panels. Maintenance is another selling point: parts are widely available and the aircraft’s design is known for durability, so downtime stays minimal.
For operators, the operating cost sits around $1,200‑$1,500 per flight hour – a sweet spot for many small companies that need flexibility without the expense of a larger jet. Fuel consumption averages 180‑200 gallons per hour, and the aircraft can run on both Jet‑A and Jet‑A1, giving you more airport options.
When you’re eyeing a pre‑owned Cessna 550, start with a thorough airframe hours check. Lower hour airframes tend to have less wear, but a well‑maintained higher‑hour aircraft can be a bargain too. Look for a complete logbook and verify that any major inspections (like the 12,000‑hour D‑check) were done on schedule.
Upgrade potential matters. Many owners retrofit newer avionics suites – think Garmin G1000 or Collins Pro Line – which can boost resale value and improve situational awareness. Check that any upgrades were performed by certified technicians and that the paperwork reflects the changes.
Finally, factor in the cost of a possible interior refresh. Leather seats, fresh carpeting, and upgraded lighting can make a big difference in passenger perception and can be done for a few thousand dollars.
In short, the Cessna 550 offers solid performance, manageable operating costs, and a cabin that feels spacious for its class. Whether you’re a small business looking for a reliable jet or a private owner wanting a proven platform, it’s worth a closer look.
A Cessna 550 crashed into San Diego’s Murphy Canyon, killing six people on board, including Dave Shapiro and Daniel Williams. Eight were injured on the ground as fires damaged homes and cars. The NTSB and FAA are investigating the crash, with no survivors reported among those on the plane.
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