Cessna Citation XLS+
Seats
9
Maximum Range (nm)
2113
ICAO Code
C56X
Cessna Citation XLS+
Introduction
The Cessna Citation XLS+ is one of the most successful midsize business jets ever produced, combining the proven performance of the Citation Excel family with modern avionics, upgraded engines, and refined cabin features. Introduced in 2008 as the enhanced successor to the Citation XLS, this jet offers a perfect blend of short-field capability, speed, comfort, and operating efficiency—making it a favorite among corporate flight departments, charter operators, and private owners. Its ability to take off from shorter runways and still deliver coast-to-coast performance makes it a versatile choice for business and leisure travelers alike.
Specification of Cessna Citation XLS+
Manufacturer: Cessna Aircraft Company (Textron Aviation)
First Flight: 2008 (XLS+ variant)
Crew: 2 (pilot and co-pilot)
Passenger Capacity: 8–9 passengers
Length: 52 ft 6 in (16.00 m)
Wingspan: 56 ft 4 in (17.17 m)
Height: 17 ft 2 in (5.23 m)
Cabin Length: 18 ft 6 in (5.64 m)
Cabin Width: 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
Cabin Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
Baggage Capacity: 90 cu ft (2.55 m³)
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg)
Engines: 2 × Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545C turbofan engines
Avionics: Collins Pro Line 21 suite
Performance and Range of Cessna Citation XLS+
The XLS+ delivers a cruise speed of 441 knots (815 km/h) and an impressive range of 2,100 nautical miles (3,889 km) with four passengers. This allows for nonstop flights such as New York to Miami, London to Moscow, or Dubai to Istanbul. The jet’s excellent climb rate enables it to reach its cruising altitude of 45,000 feet quickly, avoiding congested lower airways and most adverse weather conditions.
One of the XLS+’s strongest advantages is its short takeoff requirement—just 3,560 feet (1,085 m) at MTOW—allowing it to operate from smaller regional airports, closer to passengers’ final destinations. Landing distance is equally impressive at around 3,180 feet (969 m), making it highly flexible for point-to-point travel.
Cabin Comfort and Interior of Cessna Citation XLS+
The XLS+’s cabin design prioritizes passenger comfort without compromising efficiency. The stand-up cabin height of 5 ft 8 in allows most passengers to move freely, while the width of 5 ft 6 in creates a spacious feel. The seating is typically configured for 8 passengers, with a double-club arrangement and an additional side-facing seat or belted lavatory seat.
The interior features fine leather seats, high-gloss wood finishes, and advanced soundproofing for a quieter ride. Amenities include:
Fully reclining seats with swivel capability
Refreshment center for beverages and snacks
Enclosed lavatory for privacy
Advanced LED lighting
Wi-Fi connectivity and entertainment options (on some configurations)
The baggage compartment, with 90 cubic feet of storage, is externally accessible and can accommodate multiple large suitcases, golf clubs, and ski equipment—perfect for both business trips and leisure escapes.
Avionics and Technology of Cessna Citation XLS+
The Collins Pro Line 21 avionics suite in the XLS+ significantly enhances situational awareness, safety, and ease of operation. Key features include:
Four large LCD displays for primary flight and navigation data
Integrated Flight Information System (IFIS) for charts, maps, and weather
Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS)
Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS II)
WAAS/LPV approach capability for precision landings at more airports
Dual Flight Management Systems (FMS) for redundancy and reliability
This avionics package reduces pilot workload and allows for safer, more efficient flight operations, especially in challenging weather or high-traffic airspace.
Operational Advantages of Cessna Citation XLS+
The XLS+ offers several operational benefits that make it stand out in the midsize jet category:
Short-field performance—ideal for secondary airports.
Balanced performance and economy—lower direct operating costs compared to many competitors.
Proven reliability—built on the success of the Citation Excel and XLS series.
Easy maintenance—commonality of parts with other Citation models reduces downtime.
Strong resale value—due to its popularity in the charter and corporate sectors.
These factors make the XLS+ a favorite for both owner-operators and fleet managers looking for a dependable midsize jet that delivers consistently high performance.
Who Should Charter Cessna Citation XLS+
The Cessna Citation XLS+ is perfect for:
Business executives who need to travel between regional hubs and major cities quickly.
Small groups seeking a comfortable, private, and cost-effective midsize jet.
Leisure travelers heading to destinations with shorter runways or limited airport facilities.
Sports teams or event groups requiring generous baggage capacity.
It’s especially suitable for trips within continents, where speed, flexibility, and cabin comfort are priorities.
Charter Cost Estimates for Cessna Citation XLS+
The typical charter rate for the Citation XLS+ ranges between $4,000 and $5,000 per flight hour, depending on region, operator, and season. Additional costs such as landing fees, fuel surcharges, catering, and overnight crew expenses may apply. For example:
New York to Miami: ~2.5 hours, $10,000–$12,500 total.
Los Angeles to Aspen: ~1.5 hours, $6,000–$7,500 total.
London to Rome: ~2.5 hours, $10,000–$12,500 total.
These figures are indicative and can vary based on availability and market demand.
Conclusion
The Cessna Citation XLS+ delivers a winning formula of performance, comfort, and operational flexibility. With the ability to operate from short runways, a spacious and quiet cabin, and advanced avionics, it is equally at home flying corporate executives between business hubs or transporting families to vacation retreats. Its efficiency, reliability, and passenger-friendly features have made it one of the most sought-after midsize jets in the world—a testament to Cessna’s ability to continually refine and perfect an already outstanding platform.