Cessna's Citation V Family: A Journey Through Four Iconic Aircraft

Cessna's Citation V family of aircraft, produced from 1989 to 2011, is a legacy of innovation in the business jet industry. This family of planes, certified by the FAA, started with the Model 560 Citation V, which was first announced at the NBAA in 1987. The Citation V was a significant upgrade from the Citation II, featuring an extended fuselage, new engines, and a larger cabin space with improved soundproofing. The Citation V was powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-5A turbofans, each generating 2, 900 lbf of continuous thrust. It had a maximum range of 1, 644 nautical miles and a cruise speed of 397 knots. The aircraft could carry up to 13 passengers but was typically configured for 10. It was the first Cessna model to feature an Electronic Flight Instrumentation System (EFIS) from Honeywell, known as the Primus II. The Citation V was produced from 1988 to 1994, with a total of 262 units manufactured. The Citation Ultra, introduced in 1994, was the first major redesign of the Model 560. It featured new Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-5D turbofans, which offered better compressors and turbine sections, increasing power and reducing fuel consumption. The Ultra had a cruise speed of 400 knots and a maximum range of 1, 651 nautical miles. It was named the Best Business Jet of 1994 by Flying Magazine, praised for its performance, comfort, and speed. The Citation Ultra was produced from 1994 to 1999, with 279 units manufactured.The Citation Encore, introduced in 2006, was the second major upgrade to the Model 560. It featured new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535A turbofans, which improved performance in most areas. The Encore had a cruise speed of 430 knots and a maximum range of 1, 736 nautical miles. It also introduced a trailing link landing gear system for smoother landings and increased passenger comfort. The Citation Encore was produced from 2006 to 2010, with 168 units manufactured. The Citation Encore+, the final update to the Model 560, was certified in December 2006. It featured a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system and new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535B turbofans. The Encore+ had a maximum range of 1, 792 nautical miles and a cruise speed of 430 knots. It also introduced the Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite, which included two primary flight displays and a center multifunction display. The Citation Encore+ was produced from 2007 to 2010, with only 65 units manufactured. The Citation V family of aircraft was produced in Wichita, Kansas, known as the "Air Capitol of the World. " The family of planes is still seen in the skies today, a testament to Cessna's engineering prowess and innovation in the business jet industry.