The addition of the CJ4 to the Citation business jet line was announced in 2006, with the first flight taking place in May 2008. While it retains the simplicity and economy of the CJ3, the Cessna CJ4 is bigger and faster than its predecessor..

Standing 15ft 3 inches in height and with a length of 53ft 3 inches, the CJ4’s most obvious change from the CJ3 is the different wing design. Now 50.5ft, the 12.5 degree sweep on the leading edge reduces drag and other new features include modulated speed brakes and ground spoilers. The CJ4 also has an increased fuel capacity and a maximum range of 2,165 nautical miles.

The new FJ44-4 engine delivers more thrust than those on any of the previous CJ models, giving out 3,400lbs on take-off. The CJ4 can reach 45,000ft in 23 minutes and, at its maximum operation height, the CJ4 cruises at a speed of 451 knots. It has a maximum cruise speed, at 31,000ft of 453 knots.

The cabin is 4.8ft high, 4.9ft wide and 22.3ft long, and appears even roomier by using wall panels without seams, mirrors and indirect lights. It can seat 8 passengers and offers entertainment via MP3 players, DVD and CD players and an XM satellite radio.

The cockpit makes use of the ProLine 21 Avionics suite and also has four 8 by 10 inch AMLCDs and Dual Control Display Units. The Cessna CJ4 is the first CJ to come equipped with a full crew advisory system.