Approaching nearly two decades since its debut in 2006, the Cessna 510 Citation Mustang remains a popular choice in the very light jet (VLJ) category despite production coming to a halt. With a total of 479 planes built, there’s still ample opportunity to find one on the second-hand market or explore charter flying options for those unable to purchase outright.
Renowned for offering an affordable entry into the private jet realm, the Citation Mustang was propelled by two Pratt & Whitney PW615F engines, ensuring reliability and efficiency. Equipped with state-of-the-art landing and braking systems for its time, it garnered significant popularity during its production tenure.
Previously available fresh from the factory starting at approximately $3 million, the Mustang is no longer available new since Cessna ceased production in 2017. Current market prices range from $1.9 million to $2.8 million, contingent on factors like aircraft condition, mileage, production year, and upgrades. Newer models naturally command higher prices, with 2013-to-2017 production Mustangs fetching between $2.3 million and $3.2 million.
For those seeking more budget-friendly options, pre-owned models are available at even lower price points. Listings show 2008 and 2013 airframes with various flight hours priced around $1.85 million, making them accessible to a broader market, particularly in North America, where the majority of Mustangs were sold.
Operating a private jet entails substantial financial commitments, including fixed annual costs and operating expenses. Fixed annual costs for the Citation Mustang, covering crew salary, training, hangar fees, insurance, management, and miscellaneous expenses, amount to approximately $230,000. Operating costs, influenced by factors like fuel, maintenance, crew expenses, and landing fees, average around $1,300 per flying hour based on 200 annual flight hours.
Introduced in 2002 and produced until 2017, the Citation Mustang paved the way for its successor, the Cessna Citation M2, which boasted notable improvements in speed, range, avionics, and cabin features. With declining sales following the M2’s introduction in 2013, the Citation Mustang’s production concluded, marking the end of an era for this iconic VLJ.
