The Citation S/II, or Super II, is a modification of Cessna’s best-ever selling business jet. It carries more and goes faster than its predecessor, while still maintaining its reputation for simplicity and economy.

At the time of the Citation II release, everyone else in the industry was trying to outdo each other by making the heaviest, most complicated, hard-to-fly jet. The Citation II defied all of the trends with its simple systems and manufacturing techniques, dramatically reducing operating and purchase costs. Its focus on simplicity and economy was so effective in the air, and popular among pilots and jet owners that it reversed jet design trends all over the private jet industry.

The Citation S/II can carry eight passengers up to 2,300 miles (2,000 nautical miles) and has a max cruise speed of 404 knots. Its two Pratt & Whitney JT15D-4B high-bypass fan engines provide 2,500 pounds of thrust each on takeoff, a step up from the Citation II’s engines, specifically in thrust at high altitudes. The S/II climbs to cruise altitude at a little more than 3,000 feet per minute and has a maximum service ceiling of 43,000 feet.

Just because the Citation SII systems are simple, it most definitely does not mean they aren’t safe. The Citation SII is certified under FAR part 25 airworthiness standards – standards that are mandatory for big airliners like the Boeing 747.

The Citation series was a radical change for the better in the private jet industry. It was so influential that the president of Cessna was awarded the Collier Trophy, a national award that recognizes major achievements in the advancement of aviation.