FAA ends single-pilot exemptions for legacy Citation jets
The FAA is rescinding exemptions that let some older Cessna Citation 500-series jets fly with one pilot instead of two. The agency cited safety concerns and said 13 of 14 exemption holders were denied extensions or had exemptions rescinded.
- FAA notice issued September 24, 2026
- Applies to certain CE-500-series Citation aircraft
- 13 of 14 exemption holders denied extensions or rescinded
- FAA review began in 2024
- Accident rate cited at about 2 times comparable single-pilot Citations
The FAA is ending a long-running carve-out for some legacy Cessna Citation jets. The exemptions allowed certain Part 25-certified Citation 500-series aircraft, normally requiring two pilots, to be operated by a single pilot after special training.
The agency said its review found incomplete records, improper checks, falsified records and other compliance problems. It also said Part 25 CE-500 aircraft flown single-pilot were involved in accidents at about twice the rate of comparable Citation models certified for single-pilot operations.
This matters because many older Citations are attractive to owner-pilots and small operators on cost. Removing the exemption can change crew costs, aircraft values and how these jets are used, especially for private owners who built their flying around single-pilot approvals.
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