Learjet 45 vs Cessna Citation V
The Cessna Citation V and Learjet 45 are light jets with different priorities. The straight-wing, two-crew Citation V is a durable, comfortable jet with gentle handling and good field performance, while the swept-wing, TFE731-powered Learjet 45 is faster, climbs higher, and offers a sleeker, more modern profile.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
- For sale now
- 61
- Median asking
- $2,345,000
- Range
- $1,761,250–$7,125,000
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 25
- Source marketplaces
- 11
- Model years available
- 1999–2012
- For sale now
- 104
- Median asking
- $2,047,500
- Range
- $473,625–$3,660,250
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 42
- Source marketplaces
- 13
- Model years available
- 1989–2008
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Learjet 45 | Cessna Citation V |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 16 | — |
| Serious | 1 | — |
| Fatal | 3 | — |
| Fatalities | 15 | — |
| % Fatal | 19% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Learjet 45 | Cessna Citation V |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $1,761,250 – $7,125,000 | $473,625 – $3,660,250 |
| Category | Light Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 390 kts (722 km/h) |
| Range | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) | 1,800 nm (3,334 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) | 15,900 lbs (7,212 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) | 4,250 lbs (1,928 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 575.0 gal (2176 L) | 500.0 gal (1892 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) | 140.0 GPH (530 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 4,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $300,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $300,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,500 | $2,000 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 45
Cessna Citation V
Which Should You Buy: Learjet 45 or Cessna Citation V?
Bottom line: Choose the Citation V for easy handling, runway flexibility, and lower operating costs; pick the Learjet 45 for greater speed, altitude, and a modern feel. Performance needs, operating costs, and cabin preference typically decide this light-jet pairing.
Pick the 45 if…
- Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 390 kts.
- Longer range — 2120 nm vs 1800 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1997 vs 1989.
Pick the Citation V if…
- Budget matters — from $473,625 vs $1,761,250, you save ~$1,287,625.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2000/hr vs $2500/hr.
- More inventory — 102 listings vs 58.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.