Light Jet Comparison: Hawker 400XP Vs Cessna Citation CJ2+

The Light Jet category provides passengers with a balance between range, speed, and value that is hard to match. Jets such as the Hawker 400XP and Cessna Citation CJ2+ have transformed how many business leaders optimise their time and efficiency, and how pleasure travellers can enjoy the benefits of convenient luxury.

Here, we take an in-depth look at their key features and assess the benefits they offer to private jet charter passengers.

Hawker 400XP

The Hawker 400XP remains one of the most popular private jets to charter due to its combination of an extremely comfortable, spacious cabin and performance. Include its very reasonable operating costs, and it becomes even harder to ignore for seasoned private jet fliers as well as those flying privately for the first time. 

Powered by a brace of highly respected Pratt & Whitney JT15D engines that combine to provide nearly 6,000lbs of thrust while delivering low fuel consumption, the Hawker 400XP is one of the fastest business jets in its class. Indeed, its ability to reach a cruising altitude of 37,000 feet in less than twenty minutes is a feat very few of its competitors can match.

A state-of-the-art traffic alert and collision avoidance system ( TCAS II), an enhanced ground proximity warning system (EGPWS) and an integrated diagnostic system for greater reliability and lower maintenance costs also ensure it is one of the safest aircraft in the world.

The Hawker 400XP's range means it can easily handle routes such as Paris to Athens, London to Rome, or Miami to New York.

The Inside Story

The Hawker 400XP is typically configured to accommodate seven passengers in a club seat layout. However, its ingenious seat design ensures it is extremely adaptable and can swivel 180º, meaning each passenger can interact with each other directly. This is a fantastic option for both business travellers wishing to work collaboratively and pleasure fliers wanting to enjoy the flight with each other as much as possible.

The cabin’s flat floor and generous headroom give it a great feeling of space, which increases the Hawker 400Xp's popularity for all types of jet charter. The baggage hold also offers space for golf clubs, skis, and other large pieces of leisure equipment.

Cessna Citation CJ2+

For a large number of reasons, the Cessna Citation CJ2+ has long been one of the most popular choices for private jet charter. Reasonable operating costs, good cabin facilities and the ability to transport approximately six large suitcases as well as carry-on luggage are all extremely desirable to business travellers and holidaymakers alike.

Powered by two Williams/Rolls-Royce FJ44-2C turbofan engines, which combine to create 4,800 lbs of thrust, the Cessna Citation CJ2+ is controllable by a Rockwell Collins integrated flight information system, which makes it a favourite amongst business jet pilots.

A cruising speed of 517mph (832km/h) and a range of 2417 miles (3-hour flight time) ensure that the Cessna Citation CJ2+ offers passengers incredible travel options.

For example, routes such as London to Geneva, Paris to Frankfurt, or New York to for up to seven passengers are possible.

The Inside Story

The Cessna Citation CJ2+’s cabin comfortably accommodates seven passengers. It is spacious and well-trimmed, offering facilities such as a mini-bar and flight phone, alongside very well-suppressed noise levels. This means it is great for both business travellers and pleasure fliers.

Measuring 57 inches tall and 58 inches wide, the cabin provides plenty of leg and shoulder room. The baggage compartment is comparatively large compared to others in its class, with enough space for at least six large suitcases and a few items of hand luggage. This makes it a fantastic option for those looking for a private jet charter for a short—or mid-range at an affordable price.

Both the Hawker 400XP and the Cessna Citation CJ2+ are extremely good options for private jet charter, no matter where and why you are travelling. Here at SHY Aviation, we have access to the finest aircraft on the market and our team of global private aviation specialists are available around the clock to provide you with a solution tailored to your individual requirements.

And the SHY lifestyle team of luxury travel experts provide exclusive experiences and lifestyle management services to ensure your trip is seamless from start to finish, whether you need the finest accommodation, car transfers, or access to exclusive events, products or services.

Speak to one of our specialists and receive your private jet charter quote today.