Cessna Citation 500 Business Jets Parts Available

The 1960s presented a unique challenge to the "Big Three" American general aviation manufacturers—Beechcraft, Cessna, and Piper. The emergence of light business jets like the Learjet 23 and Aero Commander 1121 Jet Commander disrupted the market. These new jets offered significantly lower operating costs compared to established models such as the North American Sabreliner and Hawker Siddeley HS.125. Previous attempts by Beechcraft and Cessna to enter the light jet market had been unsuccessful. Cessna's T-37 Tweet jet trainer adaptation failed due to a lack of interest, while Beechcraft's marketing of the Morane-Saulnier MS.760 Paris in North America yielded minimal sales.

The success of the Learjet, however, forced a reevaluation. Cessna recognized the need for a light jet that would retain the ease of operation of its piston-engine aircraft but with significantly increased speed. This realization led to the development of the Citation 500, a machine specifically designed to appeal to traditional Cessna customers – amateur owner-pilots who desired a blend of performance and ease of use.

Initially named the Fanjet 500, the prototype made its first flight in September 1969. Its development was not a short process. The initial design underwent several refinements, including a longer forward fuselage, repositioned engine nacelles, a larger tail, and increased dihedral in the horizontal stabilizer. Certification as the 500 Citation followed in September 1971. The design featured two Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-1 turbofan engines, which, combined with its straight-wing configuration, provided a relatively slow cruise speed compared to contemporary swept-wing jets. While this slower speed earned it the nickname "Slowtation" from some competitors, it also made the aircraft significantly easier and safer to handle, appealing to its target demographic.

The Citation I, an upgraded version introduced in 1976, increased gross weight, featured improved JT15D-1A engines, and a greater wingspan. This upgrade enhanced the aircraft’s range, speed, and service ceiling. In 1977, the Citation I/SP, the single-pilot variant further broadened the aircraft’s appeal by offering exceptional accessibility to a broader range of pilots.

The Citation 500 series' impact on the aviation industry was undeniable. It successfully carved a niche in the market for a light jet that was faster than turboprops but significantly easier to handle and less demanding on pilot skills and runway length than other business jets. This appeal to a broader spectrum of pilots and owners significantly expanded the light jet market. The Citation I/SP, in particular, lowered the barrier to entry for pilots, making private jet ownership a realistic proposition for more people.

The aircraft's relatively low operating costs contributed to its success. The blend of performance, ease of operation, and affordability made it a desirable option for a large segment of the business aviation community. The inherent ease of maintenance compared to more complex jets lowered the overall cost of operation and ownership.

The Citation 500 and its variants saw extensive use across various sectors, serving both private and government clients. However, its operational history is not without incidents. The tragic death of New York Yankees catcher Thurman Munson in 1979, caused by a landing accident, stands as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks of aviation. Other incidents highlighted the importance of proper pilot training and proficiency in managing emergencies.

The Cessna Citation 500's lasting legacy is inextricably linked to its success in creating a viable and accessible market for light business jets. Its design and performance characteristics resonated strongly with a segment of the aviation community previously underserved by the available options. While newer generations of Citation jets have surpassed the original Citation 500, its pioneering role remains significant. Its impact on design philosophies, market expansion, and the future of light jet aircraft undeniably solidifies its place in aviation history. The Citation 500's success paved the way for subsequent models, establishing Cessna's Citation line as a dominant force in business aviation for decades to come.

• 1969: Citation I (prototype first flight September 15th)

• 1971: Citation 500 certified
• 1976: Citation I (upgraded version), Model 550 (Citation II) announced
• 1977: Citation I/SP (single-pilot variant), Citation II first flight
• 1978: Citation II certified
• 1979: Model 650 (Citation III) maiden flight
• 1982: Citation III certified

• 1984: Citation S/II first flight
• 1985: Citation I production ends
• 1987: Citation V prototype first flight
• 1988: Citation V certified
• 1989: CitationJet launched

• 1991: CitationJet first flight
• 1992: CitationJet certified, Citation VI produced
• 1993: Citation Ultra announced, Citation 526 (CitationJet trainer) first flight
• 1994: Citation Excel announced
• 1995: Citation Bravo first flight
• 1996: Citation X first flight, Citation Excel certified
• 1998: Citation Encore announced

• 2000: Citation VII production ends
• 2002: Citation Sovereign announced
• 2004: Citation Sovereign certified, Citation CJ3 first flight
• 2005: Citation Mustang first flight
• 2006: Citation II/Bravo production ends, Citation Mustang certified
• 2008: Citation Columbus announced
• 2009: Citation Columbus cancelled
• 2011: Citation V production ends

• 2010: Citation CJ4 built
• 2012: Citation Sovereign+ announced
• 2014: Citation Latitude prototype first flight
• 2015: Citation Latitude certified
• 2016: Citation Longitude first flight
• 2017: Citation Mustang production ends, 2,000 CitationJets delivered
• 2018: Citation X production ends, Citation Hemisphere development suspended
• 2019: Citation Longitude certified

• 2022: Citation deliveries reached 8,000.