Cessna Citation Columbus

The large-cabin jet project built to expand the Citation family

Editorial Team

Overview

Cessna United States 2008–2009 $27 million (2008)

The Cessna Citation Columbus was a proposed large-cabin business jet announced in the late 2000s. Intended to compete with super-midsize and large-cabin aircraft, it represented a significant expansion of the Citation line. The program was later suspended before production.

Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Pratt And Whitney PW810
Engine type
Turbofan
Thrust
2 × 8,830 lbf · 39 kN
Avionics
Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
12 economy · 8 business
Crew
—
Cabin width
6 ft 11 in  ·  2.10 m
Cabin height
5 ft 11 in  ·  1.80 m
Cabin length
27 ft 3 in  ·  8.30 m
Exterior length
75 ft 6 in  ·  23.00 m
Tail height
27 ft 7 in  ·  8.41 m
Fuselage diameter
7 ft 7 in  ·  2.30 m
Wing span
78 ft 9 in  ·  24.00 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
—
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
—
Fuel capacity
Max cruise speed
488 kt  ·  562 mph  ·  904 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
4,000 nm  ·  4,600 mi  ·  7,410 km
Fuel burn
1.60 nm/gal  ·  0.78 km/L
Ceiling
45,000 ft  ·  13,700 m
Rate of climb
—
Takeoff distance
5,400 ft  ·  1,650 m
Landing distance
3,500 ft  ·  1,070 m
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Operational Context

Cessna Citation Columbus — proposed large-cabin business jet

The Columbus program was unveiled in 2008 as Cessna sought to move into a higher-capacity segment of the business jet market. The design featured a swept wing, rear-mounted turbofan engines, and a spacious stand-up cabin. It was projected to offer extended range and modern avionics.

Planned performance included cruise speeds around 450 knots (830 km/h) and a maximum takeoff weight exceeding 35,000 pounds (15,875 kg). Range targets were approximately 4,000 nautical miles (7,400 km). Cabin seating was expected to accommodate up to 12 passengers.

Economic downturn and market conditions led to suspension of the project in 2009. Although it never entered service, the Columbus reflected Cessna’s ambition to compete in larger business jet categories. The program remains a notable canceled development in business aviation history.