The FAA is ending exemptions that allowed single-pilot operations on several older Cessna Citation business jets, with the change taking effect next week. The aircraft were originally certified for two-pilot operations, but exemptions had permitted qualified pilots to fly them alone after additional training.
The change covers several models, including the Citation 550, Citation II, Citation V, Ultra, Bravo, Encore and Encore+. The FAA said it identified widespread training violations and safety concerns while reviewing the exemption program. Pilots previously operating under the exemptions will now require a qualified second pilot.
The FAA also pointed to the December 2025 Citation 550 crash in Statesville, North Carolina, which killed all seven people aboard. According to the NTSB’s preliminary findings, the pilot in the left seat was authorized to operate the aircraft only with a qualified copilot, while the person in the right seat was not qualified for that role.
