Private jets are not just luxury vehicles, they are convenient modes of transportation that are an essential part of many people’s lives. When it comes to choosing the right private jet, there are several options to choose from. The Eclipse 550 and the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 are two of the most popular options on the market. They offer similar features and benefits, but there are some key differences that set them apart. In this blog post, we will compare the Eclipse 550 and the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 to help you make the right decision.
1) Performance
Both airplanes have a cruising altitude of 41,000 feet. However, the Eclipse 550 has a range of around 1,125 nautical miles, while the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 has a range of around 1,550 nautical miles. This means that the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 can travel longer distances without the need for refueling. On the other hand, the Eclipse 550 is faster with a cruise speed of 430 knots compared to the Cessna Citation Jet/M2’s maximum cruise speed of 404 knots.
Additional Read:Cessna Citation CJ3 Vs Embraer Phenom 300E–Which Light Private Jet is Right for You?
2) Cabin Space
The Eclipse 550 has a smaller cabin than the Cessna Citation Jet/M2, but it’s still a comfortable space. The Eclipse 550 can seat up to four passengers comfortably, while the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 can seat up to eight passengers comfortably. The Eclipse 550 has a width of 4.8 feet and a height of 4.2 feet, while the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 has a width of 4.7 feet and a height of 4.8 feet. This means that the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 has more headroom.
3) Features
Both airplanes come with standard features such as an on-board lavatory, air conditioning, and entertainment systems. However, the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 has a more advanced and sophisticated avionics system compared to the Eclipse 550. The Cessna Citation Jet/M2 has a Garmin G3000 avionics suite that includes synthetic vision, touchscreen displays, and advanced flight control systems. The Eclipse 550 has a four-screen Avio Integrated Flight Management System but it’s not as advanced as the Cessna.
4) Price
The Eclipse 550 is considerably less expensive than the Cessna Citation Jet/M2. The Eclipse 550 typically costs around $3 million, while the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 costs around $6 million. However, the operating costs of the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 are higher, mainly because of its bigger engines. In the long run, the operating cost of owning the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 may balance out the upfront cost difference.
5) Resale Value
Resale value is an essential factor for people who plan on owning a private jet for a short period. The Cessna Citation Jet/M2 has better resale value than the Eclipse 550. The Cessna Citation Jet/M2 has a better reputation and is considered more prestigious in its class. It is also a newer model and that can translate to better resale value in the future.
The decision to purchase a private jet is not one that should be taken lightly. It is essential to consider all options available and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option. The Eclipse 550 and the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 are two great options, each with its unique features and benefits. The Eclipse 550 is a great option for those looking for speed and affordability, while the Cessna Citation Jet/M2 is a better option for people who want more cabin space and advanced avionics. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and what matters most to you.