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Textron Aviation

Citation III

Citation III
Starting List Price

$8.1M

Bombardier

Learjet 55

Learjet 55
Starting List Price

$7.0M

Technical Specification Matrix

Preferred Metric
speed

Performance Metrics

ParameterCitation IIILearjet 55
Max Range (NBAA IFR)2,300 nmWinner
2,040 nm
Max Cruise SpeedMach 0.83Winner (Speed)
Mach 0.81
Takeoff Distance (SL, ISA, MTOW)5,000 ftShort Field
5,300 ft
Max Operating Altitude51,000 ft51,000 ft
airline_seat_recline_extra

Cabin Environment

Max Certified Seating9 pax10 pax
Cabin Width5.5 ft
5.9 ftWider
Cabin Altitude @ FL4107,000 ftLower Altitude
8,000 ft

Expert Insights

Range & Capability

The Citation III excels in sheer capability with a 2300nm range, making it preferred for extreme ultra-long-haul city pairs, whereas the Learjet 55 counters with 2040nm.

Cabin Architecture

While the Citation III focuses on its 1-zone configuration (5.5ft wide), the Learjet 55 provides 5.9ft of width, offering a distinctly different volumetric feel for passengers.

Technological Edge

The Cessna Citation III is an important Citation model because it balances usable range, approachabl... Both platforms represent the pinnacle of modern fly-by-wire avionics and systems redundancy in the mid size class.

Operating Economics (Est.)

Variable Costs Per Hour

Citation III$2,215/hr
Learjet 55$1,732/hr

Economic Note

Estimates based on 450 hours annual utilization. The Learjet 55 shows higher fuel efficiency resulting in lower direct variable costs per hour, while both airframes require similar fixed overheads for crew and hangarage.