The Citation CJ1 market continues to demonstrate steady demand among owner-operators and first-time jet buyers seeking a reliable, efficient, and economical light jet. As one of the most popular aircraft in the Citation family, the CJ1 remains attractive for its manageable operating costs, single-pilot certification, and strong support network. While market activity remains healthy, buyers continue to be selective, placing greater emphasis on aircraft condition, maintenance history, and overall value proposition.
Fleet Size and Availability
There are currently 20 Citation CJ1 aircraft for sale, including 1 off-market aircraft, representing 10.3% of the fleet.
Inventory levels have remained remarkably stable over the past three months, holding at 20 available aircraft after peaking at 24 aircraft in February. This consistency suggests the market has found a relatively balanced level of supply, providing buyers with adequate selection while avoiding significant inventory pressure on sellers.
Market Listings
Current asking prices range from $1,300,000 to $2,400,000, with aircraft averaging 229 days on market.
Aircraft values continue to be heavily influenced by maintenance pedigree, engine program enrollment, avionics upgrades, and overall aircraft condition. CJ1s equipped with modern Garmin upgrades continue attracting strong buyer attention and often command premiums over similarly maintained aircraft with legacy avionics configurations.
The broad asking price range reflects differences in total time, maintenance status, equipment levels, and upgrade history throughout the fleet.
Sales Activity
Over the past six months, 14 Citation CJ1 aircraft have sold, including 6 off-market transactions, representing 7.2% of the fleet. Sold aircraft traded between $1,600,000 and $1,900,000.
Transaction activity accelerated during March and April before moderating slightly in May. Notably, nearly half of all completed transactions occurred off-market, underscoring the continued importance of broker relationships and private buyer networks within this segment.
Sold aircraft averaged 118 days on market, substantially outperforming current inventory and indicating that properly priced, well-equipped aircraft continue finding buyers relatively quickly.
Key Takeaways
• Inventory levels have stabilized following a brief increase earlier this year
• CJ1s with Garmin upgrades continue generating strong buyer interest
• Off-market transactions account for a significant percentage of completed sales
• Well-maintained aircraft continue selling faster than overall market averages
• Buyer demand remains healthy despite increased selectivity
Key Insight
The Citation CJ1 market remains one of the more active segments within the light jet category. Stable inventory levels, healthy transaction volume, and strong demand for upgraded aircraft continue supporting the market. While buyers remain disciplined and focused on maintenance and equipment quality, well-positioned aircraft continue attracting meaningful interest and achieving successful outcomes in a reasonable timeframe.
