N523TA Aircraft Overview
Performance Profile
N523TA operates in the light jet segment where speed, efficiency, and airport access converge. The Cessna Citation CJ3 covers 2,040 nautical miles at 416 knots. 2x Williams FJ44-3A at 2,780 lbs each keep hourly operating costs among the lowest in the jet category.
Mission Profile
N523TA handles the regional missions that define light jet aviation: 400-1,500 nautical mile legs with 2-6 passengers. The Cessna Citation CJ3's short runway capability and 9-seat cabin reach airports that larger jets cannot access.
Charter Authorization
N523TA's operator holds Part 135 authorization covering domestic charter. The Cessna Citation CJ3's efficiency makes it the right tool for missions where speed is required but heavy-jet capacity is not.
Insider Note
Buyers evaluating light jets should compare mission profiles rather than specs alone. The Cessna Citation CJ3's 2,040 NM range and 9-seat cabin suit a specific use case. If the typical mission exceeds 2,040 NM or regularly carries more than 9 passengers, a midsize jet may be the better fit.
Charter & Acquisition Briefing
N523TA is a 2008 Cessna Citation CJ3 registered to . The CJ3 occupies the exact center of the light jet market: faster than entry-level jets, more affordable than the Phenom 300. Here is the briefing for this airframe.
Fleet Position
Over 450 CJ3/CJ3+ aircraft are in service, with roughly 300 on U.S. registrations. FAA data shows N523TA based in 9 passengers, . The CJ3 is single-pilot certified, which makes it popular with owner-operators and small charter companies running lean crew rosters. Fleet depth ensures availability in most U.S. regions, with charter positioning fees typically under $3,000.
Charter Availability
N523TA is Part 135 charter authorized. CJ3 charter rates range from $2,600 to $3,400 per flight hour, positioning it as the most affordable light jet with a fully enclosed lavatory. Expect $500 to $800 less per hour than a Phenom 300, though cruise speed is 20 knots slower (416 knots vs 453 knots). Positioning from 9 passengers typically adds $1,500 to $3,500.
Market Position
As a 2008 airframe, N523TA is an early-production CJ3 with Collins Pro Line 21 avionics. Pre-owned values sit at $3M to $4.5M. Early CJ3s established the model's reputation for reliability and low direct operating costs. The Williams FJ44-3A engines have demonstrated strong dispatch reliability, and maintenance intervals are straightforward.
Pre-buy priorities: FJ44-3A hot section inspection status ($150,000 to $200,000 per engine), Pro Line 21 software baseline (confirm ADS-B Out compliance), and interior condition. A well-maintained early CJ3 is one of the most affordable entries into jet ownership, with annual operating costs of $200,000 to $280,000 at 200 hours.
Mission Profile
Core strength: light jet capability at very light jet operating costs. The CJ3 moves 4 to 6 passengers for $2,600 to $3,400 per flight hour. That is $800 to $1,200 less than a Phenom 300 and $2,000 less than a Citation XLS. For cost-conscious buyers who do not need the Phenom's speed or the XLS's cabin height, the CJ3 is the rational choice.
When to Choose Something Else
Do not charter a CJ3 for international flights requiring cabin attendant service. The cabin width of 4.8 feet and absence of a galley station make flight attendant service impractical. For flights over 3 hours where catering service matters, a midsize jet with a galley is the appropriate aircraft.
Ownership & Operations
Part 91 operations cover owner-flown and company-flown aircraft under general operating rules. Part 135 governs on-demand air charter, requiring higher crew qualifications, maintenance standards, and operational oversight. An aircraft can operate under both parts: Part 91 for owner use and Part 135 when offered for charter revenue. Dual-use arrangements offset ownership costs by generating charter income during idle periods.
Pre-Purchase Considerations
Pre-purchase inspections are non-negotiable in aircraft acquisitions. A qualified maintenance facility conducts a detailed review of airframe, engines, avionics, and records. Inspection costs range from $15,000 to $75,000 depending on aircraft size and complexity. Findings from the pre-buy determine final pricing, identify upcoming maintenance events, and reveal any damage history that affects value.
Charter Market Context
Charter demand for business jets follows seasonal and economic patterns. Q4 (October through December) sees peak demand driven by year-end business travel, holiday flights, and tax planning (asset purchases before December 31). Q1 starts strong with CES, Davos, and Super Bowl driving specific route demand. Summer leisure travel to resort destinations creates predictable seasonal corridors.
N523TA Aircraft Intelligence
Cross-referenced from FAA Registry, Part 135 operator database, and live ADS-B telemetry.
Inquire About N523TA
Contact us to see if this aircraft is available for a charter flight or acquisition that fits your needs. If the aircraft is not available or does not work for you, we operate private aircraft as well and have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.
For more information contact us and one of our private aviation advisers will be happy to assist you.
Contact UsDetailed Specifications
Aircraft Identity
| Registration | N523TA |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cessna |
| Model | Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3) |
| Part 135 Operator | Dominion Aviation Services, LLC |
| Category | Light Jet |
| Cabin Class | — |
| Year Built | 2008 |
| Configuration | Executive/7 |
| Home Base | Chesterfield County Airport, Richmond, Virginia |
| Home Airport | KFCI |
Performance & Capabilities
| Engine Type | 2x Williams FJ44-3A |
|---|---|
| Engine Thrust | 2,780 lbs |
| Max Cruise Speed | 416 knots |
| Maximum Range | 2040 nautical miles |
| Service Ceiling | 45000 feet |
| Takeoff Distance | 3,180 ft |
| Passenger Capacity | 9 passengers |
| Baggage Volume | 66 cu ft |
| Avionics | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 |
| IFR Certified | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions About N523TA
16 questions answered about this aircraft and the Cessna Citation CJ3
N523TA is a 2008 Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3) registered in the United States. It carries serial number on file with the FAA and is classified as a business jet in the private aviation market. The aircraft has maintained continuous airworthiness for 8 years.
N523TA is a Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3). The Cessna Citation CJ3 is a business jet platform with a range of 2,000 nautical miles. Cessna has a well-established support network for this airframe.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 is powered by 2x Williams FJ44-3A, each producing 2,780 lbs. Engine maintenance programs from the manufacturer spread overhaul costs across flight hours, making operating expenses predictable. The powerplant supports a service ceiling of 45,000 feet.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 has a maximum cruise speed of 416 knots. Long-range cruise is 380 kts. At these speeds, a three-hour flight covers approximately 1248 nautical miles, connecting most major city pairs within its range envelope.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 (Citation CJ3) has an approximate range of 2,040 nautical miles. This translates to nonstop coverage of coast-to-coast routes such as New York to Los Angeles, or Miami to Seattle. At a cruise speed of approximately 416 knots, total block times remain competitive for the category.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 seats up to 9 passengers in a typical charter configuration. The cabin measures 15.7 ft long, 4.8 ft wide, and 4.8 ft tall. The cabin accommodates productive work or rest on flights of typical duration.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 has a maximum service ceiling of 45,000 feet (FL450). At this altitude, the aircraft operates above commercial traffic and most weather systems. The pressurization system maintains a cabin altitude of approximately 5,500-6,500 feet at maximum cruise altitude, reducing passenger fatigue on long flights.
Yes. The Cessna Citation CJ3 is fully certified for IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) operations. It is equipped with Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics avionics, supporting precision approaches, RNAV/GPS navigation, FANS/CPDLC for oceanic operations, and ADS-B Out compliance. All Part 135 charter operations require two instrument-rated pilots.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 cabin measures 15.7 ft long, 4.8 ft wide, and 4.8 ft tall. Most passengers can stand upright in the center aisle. Baggage capacity is 66 cu ft.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 has 66 cu ft of baggage volume in an externally accessible, heated and pressurized compartment. This accommodates 9+ full-size suitcases or a combination of luggage, garment bags, and sporting equipment. The compartment does not intrude on cabin space.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 is equipped with Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics. This integrated flight deck provides enhanced situational awareness, synthetic vision, TCAS II, and weather radar. The system supports single-crew operations where type-certified, though Part 135 charter flights require two pilots.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 was produced from 2004-2014. The type was succeeded by the CJ3+. This specific aircraft (N523TA) was manufactured in 2008.
The Cessna Citation CJ3 competes in the Light Jet segment against aircraft with similar range and cabin specifications. Key differentiators include a cruise speed of 416 knots, range of 2,040 nm, and a 4.8 ft-foot-wide cabin. Selection between competing types depends on mission profile, operator availability, and total trip cost.
Charter rates for the Cessna Citation CJ3 typically range from $2,200-$3,000 per flight hour, depending on operator, region, and seasonal demand. This includes crew, fuel at current Jet-A prices, and standard handling. Additional costs may include FBO fees, overnight crew expenses, international handling, and repositioning if the aircraft is not based at the departure airport.
Yes. N523TA holds an active Part 135 certificate under Dominion Aviation Services, LLC, meaning it is legally authorized for on-demand charter operations. Contact The Jet Finder to check current availability and schedule a flight.
Contact us for acquisition information about N523TA. Our aviation advisors can provide market valuation and availability details.
From Your First Mission to Your Final Acquisition
Contact us to see if this aircraft is available for a charter flight or acquisition. If this aircraft is not available, we operate private aircraft and have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.