Cessna 650 Series: Citation III, VI & VII - Performance & features

Cessna 650, Citation III, Citation VI, Citation VII, midsize business jet, turbofan engines, private aviation, Cessna Citation series

The Cessna 650 Series: Citation III, VI, and VII - Advanced midsize business jets

The Cessna 650 series, comprising the Citation III, VI, and VII, represents a significant evolution in midsize business jets. Introduced in the early 1980s, the Citation III set new standards with its swept-wing design and turbofan engines, offering improved speed and range compared to earlier Citation models. With a maximum cruise speed of 876 km/h (473 knots) and a range of 3,500 km (1,890 nautical miles), the Citation III became a popular choice for corporate and private operators seeking efficiency and performance.

The Citation VI, introduced in the mid-1990s, was a refined version of the Citation III, featuring upgraded avionics and enhanced cabin comfort. While retaining the same airframe and engines, the VI model offered improved systems reliability and a more modernized cockpit. Its flexible cabin layout accommodated up to 8-9 passengers, making it ideal for both business and leisure travel. The Citation VI also benefited from better fuel efficiency, reducing operational costs for owners.

The Citation VII, the final variant in the 650 series, further advanced the line with more powerful Honeywell TFE731-4R engines, boosting performance. With a higher maximum cruise speed of 904 km/h (488 knots) and a range of 3,800 km (2,050 nautical miles), the VII model was competitive in the midsize jet market. Its redesigned interior featured improved soundproofing and ergonomic seating, enhancing passenger comfort on longer flights.

One of the standout features of the Cessna 650 series was its supercritical wing design, which improved aerodynamic efficiency and fuel economy. This innovation allowed the jets to achieve higher altitudes (up to 45,000 feet), enabling smoother flights above adverse weather. Additionally, the series was known for its short-field performance, capable of operating from runways as short as 1,200 meters (3,900 feet).

Despite being phased out in favor of newer models like the Citation Sovereign and X, the Cessna 650 series left a lasting legacy in business aviation. Its combination of speed, range, and reliability made it a preferred choice for operators worldwide. Today, pre-owned Citation III, VI, and VII models remain in service, valued for their durability and cost-effectiveness.

In summary, the Cessna 650 series - the Citation III, VI, and VII - played a pivotal role in advancing midsize business jet technology. With their powerful engines, efficient design, and comfortable cabins, these aircraft set benchmarks for performance and operational flexibility. Whether for corporate travel or private use, the 650 series demonstrated Cessna's commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation.

Specification:

Type: Midsize jet
Max passengers: 8
Catering: Snacks or cold VIP catering like sandwiches, canapees, fresh fruit and petit fours
Drinks: Coffee, tea, water, soft drinks and acoholic drinks
Cabin length: 5,60m
Cabin height: 1,70m
Cabin width: 1,70m
Luggage capacity: 1,95 m³ / 9 medium suitcases
Lavatory: Yes
Max range: 4:00h / 3.800km