Book a Citation III
Citation III
Super midsize jet
The Citation III (Model 650) was the original midsize jet pioneer, introducing the first stand-up cabin (5'7" height) and the supercritical wing to the Citation line. It combines high speed (Mach 0.83) and exceptional comfort for efficient, long-range executive travel.
Stand-Up Cabin and Supercritical Speed
Overview
The Cessna Citation III (Model 650) was a revolutionary aircraft for Cessna, certified in April 1982 and delivered starting in 1983. It was the company's first "clean-sheet" design aimed squarely at the midsize market, creating a platform that set new standards for passenger comfort and high-altitude performance. The Citation III’s success was driven by two core innovations: it introduced the first stand-up cabin in a Citation jet, providing a full 5,7 feet of headroom, and it featured a highly swept, advanced supercritical wing. This aerodynamic design, typically reserved for high-speed aircraft, allowed the Citation III to achieve high cruise speeds (up to Mach 0.83) and operate efficiently at a phenomenal 51,000-foot service ceiling. The Citation III successfully married luxurious, stand-up space with high-tech wing technology, creating a high-performance, long-range executive platform capable of flying above virtually all weather and commercial traffic, defining the benchmark for the modern midsize jet.
Stand-Up Executive Space
Luxury interior
The Citation III’s interior provide genuine stand-up headroom and a large, wide cabin designed for long-range comfort. The spacious, 18-foot interior easily accommodates eight passengers in a plush double-club configuration, creating a quiet, productive, and fully functional executive environment.
Genuine Stand-Up Cabin
The Citation III was the first in the line to offer true 5,7 feet of headroom. This structural design dramatically enhances passenger mobility and comfort throughout the entire journey.
Executive Double Club
The generous 18-foot cabin easily accommodates up to eight passengers in a full double-club configuration. This arrangement maximizes capacity and facilitates in-flight business meetings and productivity.
Integrated Baggage Utility
With a substantial pressurized and externally accessible baggage area (62 cu ft), the Citation III maximizes payload utility, ensuring safe and easy storage for luggage and sports gear.
Key Specifications & Performance
Technical Characteristics
The Citation III delivers superior range and speed, distinguished by its unique 51,000-foot service ceiling.
Performance
Maximum Cruise Speed
468 knots (867 km/h)
Maximum Range
2,340 nautical miles (4,334 km)
Service Ceiling
51,000 feet (15,545 m)
Takeoff Distance
4,775 feet (1,455 m)
Landing Distance
2,710 feet (826 m)
Rate of Climb
3,700 feet/minute (1,128 meters/minute)
Capacity
Passengers
Up to 9 (Typical configuration is 8)
Crew
2 (Pilot & Co-Pilot)
Cabin Volume
400 cubic feet (11.33 cubic meters)
Cabin Dimensions
Length: 18,6 ft (5,64 m)
Width: 5,6 ft (1,68 m)
Height: 5,7 ft (1,70 m)
Fuel & Engines
Fuel Capacity
10,100 pounds (4,581 kg)
Engines
2 x Honeywell TFE731-3B
Twin aft-mounted turbofans known for their high reliability and high specific fuel consumption, optimized for high-altitude cruise and efficiency.
Thrust (each)
3,650 pounds of thrust (16.24 kN)
Cargo & Access
Cargo Door Size
Primary storage is a large, heated and pressurized aft compartment, ensuring the contents are safe and accessible externally before and after flight.
Baggage Compartment
62 cubic feet (1.76 cubic meters)
Approximately 6–8 standard suitcases or soft bags.
High-Speed and Structural Integrity
Key feature
The Citation III’s pioneering midsize design was built on a foundation of advanced aerodynamics and robust engineering. These two features ensure the aircraft delivers efficient, high-speed performance while providing the superior structural assurance and ride quality expected of a modern executive jet.
The Supercritical Wing Advantage
Performance & Technical Excellence
The Citation III was one of the first business jets to incorporate a highly swept, advanced supercritical wing ,an aerodynamic feature typically reserved for high-speed military and large commercial aircraft. This innovative wing design minimizes drag at high Mach numbers, allowing the jet to achieve impressive cruise speeds (up to Mach 0.83) and operate efficiently at high altitudes. For the passenger, this design excellence translates directly into a faster, smoother journey with optimized fuel consumption. The precise contouring of the wing delays the onset of shockwaves, resulting in exceptional high-speed stability and reduced turbulence exposure, assuring a comfortable and rapid transit across long-range missions. This cutting-edge technology was the foundation for all subsequent high-performance Citations, confirming the aircraft’s status as a technological pioneer.
Unmatched Altitude and Structural Assurance
Safety & Operational Advantage
The Citation III offers crucial safety advantages derived from its midsize, clean-sheet design and remarkable altitude capability. Its powerful TFE731 engines and aerodynamic efficiency allow the jet to climb to an industry-leading 51,000-foot service ceiling. This unique height ensures the aircraft operates above virtually all adverse weather systems and commercial air traffic, dramatically minimizing turbulence and maximizing flight tranquility. Furthermore, the aircraft’s robust structural integrity (built to new, more rigorous midsize jet standards) provides a superior layer of systems redundancy and stability compared to earlier light jets. This combination of high-altitude safety and solid structural engineering guarantees peace of mind and a consistently smooth flight experience, knowing the aircraft is operating within a unique, low-density airspace environment.
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