Introduction
The Citation XLS is one of the most widely flown midsize jets. It offers a comfortable cabin for a small group, enough range for most domestic trips, and access to airports with shorter runways than airline jets need.
Overview of the Citation XLS Jet
The XLS is the second aircraft in the Citation Excel series, an update of the original Citation Excel. The Excel first flew on February 29, 1996, and was certified in April 1998. The XLS added a Honeywell Primus 1000 glass cockpit and upgraded Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545B engines with more performance. Cessna built 330 Citation XLS aircraft before production ended in 2008.
The family has kept evolving since then:
- Citation XLS+ (deliveries from 2008): FADEC engine controls, PW545C engines, a revised nose similar to the Citation Sovereign and Citation X, and Collins Pro Line 21 avionics with four LCD screens.
- Citation XLS Gen2: A later update of the XLS+.
- Citation Ascend: The current successor, announced in May 2023 and in service since December 2025, with new avionics, engine improvements, a flat cabin floor, larger windows and swiveling seats.
More than 1,000 aircraft in the 560XL family had been delivered by 2021. When you charter "a Citation XLS", the aircraft may be an XLS, XLS+ or Gen2, so it is worth asking which one.
Purpose and Usage of the Citation XLS Jet
The XLS family is used by private owners, companies, fractional programs and charter operators. It suits trips where a light jet feels cramped but a large-cabin jet is more than you need, such as a group of six to eight on a domestic flight of a few hours.
Specifications of the Citation XLS Jet
The table below uses published figures for the original Citation XLS, with the XLS+ shown where it differs.
| Specification | Citation XLS | Citation XLS+ |
|---|---|---|
| Engines | 2 x PW545B, 3,991 lbf each | 2 x PW545C, 4,119 lbf each |
| Maximum cruise speed | 433 kts | 441 ktas |
| Long-range cruise | 373 kts | |
| Range | 1,796 nm (NBAA IFR, 4 passengers); 1,841 nm maximum | 2,100 nm maximum (Textron) |
| Maximum operating altitude | 45,000 ft | 45,000 ft |
| Takeoff distance | 3,560 ft (SL, ISA, MTOW) | |
| Landing distance | 2,739 ft (SL, ISA, MLW) | |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 20,200 lb | 20,200 lb |
| Maximum landing weight | 18,700 lb | |
| Cabin volume | 461 cu ft | |
| Typical seating | 9 passengers, 2 crew | 9 passengers, 2 crew |
Length, Wingspan, and Height
The Citation XLS+ is 52 ft 6 in long, with a wingspan of 56 ft 4 in and a height of 17 ft 2 in. The aircraft uses the unswept supercritical wing and cruciform tail of the earlier Citation V.
Maximum takeoff weight
Every version from the original Excel through the XLS+ shares a maximum takeoff weight of 20,200 lb. The original XLS's maximum landing weight is 18,700 lb.
Crew and passenger capacity
The typical cabin seats 9 passengers with 2 pilots. Textron lists up to 12 maximum occupants for the XLS Gen2, but most cabins in service are set up for 8 or 9 passengers. If your group is near the limit, check the seating chart of the specific aircraft.
Engine and Performance
Maximum speed and range
The original XLS cruises at up to 433 kts, and the XLS+ at up to 441 ktas. With four passengers and NBAA IFR reserves, the original XLS has a range of 1,796 nm. Range drops as you add passengers and bags, and headwinds reduce it further. For a long leg, ask for a route-specific estimate before you count on a nonstop flight.
Fuel efficiency and consumption
Published figures put the original XLS's fuel burn at about 211 gallons per hour. Actual fuel burn depends on altitude, speed, weight and weather.
Interior and Capacity
Cabin comfort features
The Excel family uses a slightly shortened version of the Citation X stand-up cabin. With 461 cu ft of cabin volume, the XLS gives a group of up to nine room to sit facing each other, work at a table or rest. Interiors vary by aircraft and by the year it was refurbished, so ask for current photos of the aircraft you are offered.
Storage and Luggage Capacity
Storage options and capacity
Baggage capacity depends on the version and on how the aircraft is configured, so confirm it with the operator for the specific aircraft. Bag weight also counts against the payload, so a full cabin and heavy bags can affect range.
Luggage weight and size limits
Soft-sided bags pack more easily than hard cases. Tell the operator in advance about skis, golf bags or anything oversized so they can confirm it fits.
Benefits of Owning or Chartering a Citation XLS Jet
Cost-efficiency and Time-Saving benefits
A midsize jet like the XLS lets you fly direct between smaller airports, skip airline connections and set your own schedule. Charter prices depend on the route, flight time, positioning, date and operator.
Comfort and Convenience Benefits
You typically board at a private terminal, travel only with your own group and choose your departure time.
Chartering a Citation XLS with BLADE
BLADE arranges private jet charters through BLADE Anywhere, including midsize jets such as the Citation XLS family. Share your dates, airports and number of passengers, and BLADE books the aircraft with a licensed operator. All US flights are operated by DOT/FAA-licensed direct air carriers. For what drives the price, see private jet cost.
FAQs about What Is A Citation XLS Jet?
What is a Citation XLS jet?
The Citation XLS is a midsize business jet made by Cessna, now part of Textron Aviation. It is an update of the Citation Excel, with a glass cockpit and upgraded engines.
How many passengers can a Citation XLS carry?
The typical configuration seats 9 passengers with 2 pilots.
What is the range of a Citation XLS?
The original XLS has a range of 1,796 nm with four passengers and NBAA IFR reserves. Textron lists 2,100 nm of maximum range for the later XLS+ and XLS Gen2.
How fast is a Citation XLS?
The original XLS cruises at up to 433 kts. The XLS+ cruises at up to 441 ktas.
What replaced the Citation XLS?
The XLS+ followed in 2008, then the XLS Gen2. The Citation Ascend is the current successor.