This 2002 Cessna 560 Citation Encore Is a Versatile ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Mission-ready standout jet features refurbished interior and Part 135 maintenance history.

FLYING Staff

Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

2002 Cessna 560 Citation Encore [Credit: Centennial Jets]

Key Takeaways:

A 2002 Cessna 560 Citation Encore is highlighted as "Today's Top Pick," praised as the definitive sweet spot in Cessna's 560 series for its refined performance.
This aircraft boasts a professionally managed history with engines enrolled in the JSSI program, 1,990 hours since major overhaul, and offers a 1,646 nm range with short-field landing capabilities.
It features a comprehensive interior and exterior refurbishment completed in 2018, providing an elegant eight-passenger cabin with modern amenities and a ceramic-coated paint job.
Listed at $2,950,000, it is presented as a mission-ready solution for new jet owners or operators looking to expand their fleet.

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Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale chooses an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, a good deal, or has other qualities we find interesting. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 2002 Cessna 560 Citation Encore.

In the world of light business jets, the Citation Encore is frequently described as the definitive sweet spot of Cessna’s 560 series. It represents a master class in evolution, taking the proven foundation of the Citation Ultra and refining it with more powerful engines, increased fuel capacity, and the highly coveted trailing-link landing gear that turned every arrival into a soft one.

This 2002 model stands out not just for its model pedigree but for its history as a professionally managed asset with a maintenance record reflecting its time under Part 135 operations.

The airframe has logged 12,313 total hours, a testament to the longevity and reliability that have made the Citation line a staple of the charter and corporate world. Powering the jet are two Pratt & Whitney PW535A engines, which provide the Encore with its signature climb performance and a high-speed cruise of 426 knots.

Both engines have 1,990 hours since their last major overhaul and are enrolled in the JSSI engine program, offering a level of financial predictability and peace of mind essential for any jet operator. With a range of 1,646 nm and the ability to land on strips shorter than 2,500 feet, this aircraft offers access to smaller regional airports that remain off limits to many of its peers.

2002 Cessna 560 Citation Encore [Credit: Centennial Jets]

The passenger experience is equally impressive, thanks to a comprehensive interior and exterior refurbishment completed in 2018. The eight-passenger cabin is finished in beige leather with walnut wood veneers and polished gold hardware, creating an atmosphere of classic executive elegance. The layout features a center four-place club, two aft forward-facing seats, and a forward aft-facing seat, all complemented by modern conveniences like 110 VAC outlets and an advanced cabin display.

Outside, the overall paint job is protected by a ceramic coating, ensuring the aircraft looks as sharp on the ramp as it performs at altitude.

Listed at $2,950,000, this Citation Encore is a mission-ready solution for an owner looking to graduate into the world of jet performance or an operator seeking a reliable, refurbished addition to their fleet.

If you’re exploring ownership options, FLYING Finance can help get you airborne. Use our airplane loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments, or connect with an aviation finance expert at flyingfinance.com.