Aircraft overview

The Cessna Citation I / 500 is the original member of Cessna’s Citation business jet family. Developed as the Cessna Fanjet 500, it first flew in 1969 and entered customer service in the early 1970s, with Citation I production continuing into the mid 1980s. It is a light business jet designed for short to medium stage lengths, modest runway requirements and comparatively simple operation. Its importance is historical as well as practical: the model established the Citation line as an accessible alternative to faster, larger business jets, emphasizing predictable handling, low approach speeds and utility over outright speed.

Performance & specifications

Typical cruise speed for the Cessna Citation I / 500 is about 340 to 360 knots, depending on altitude, weight and engine variant. Practical range is commonly around 1,100 to 1,300 nautical miles with reserves and a suitable payload. The aircraft has a certified ceiling of 41,000 feet. Maximum takeoff weight is about 11,850 pounds, and useful load is typically in the area of 5,000 pounds, varying by equipment, interior and modifications. Power is supplied by two Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D turbofan engines, with early aircraft using JT15D-1 series engines and later Citation I aircraft commonly associated with JT15D-1A powerplants.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin is arranged for approximately five to seven passengers, with many aircraft configured with club seating, a side facing seat or refreshment cabinet, and a belted lavatory seat depending on layout. The cabin is narrower and lower than later Citation models, but it remains functional for regional business missions. Original avionics were typically analog Collins or similar period suites. On today’s market, equipment varies widely: many aircraft have Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, updated transponders, ADS-B Out compliance, modern audio panels and weather displays. Garmin G1000 and Garmin Perspective are not standard Citation I / 500 installations, so buyers should evaluate each panel individually.

Buying & value

Key pre-purchase items include engine time, hot section and overhaul status, logbook continuity, corrosion history, compliance with applicable airworthiness directives, landing gear and Phase inspection status, fuel system condition and avionics suitability for current IFR operations. Common upgrades include modern GPS navigation, RVSM related equipment where installed and approved, interior refurbishment, paint, and engine or aerodynamic modification programs from specialist providers. The closely related Citation I/SP, model 501, adds single pilot certification but should be distinguished from the two pilot Citation I / 500. In the used market, the type generally occupies the lower cost entry point for turbine business jet ownership. Current PlaneFox listing data shows an average asking price of about EUR 572,000, with examples ranging from roughly EUR 280,000 to EUR 1,120,000 depending on condition, engines, avionics and modifications.