The Citation 560XL series by Cessna is well-known for its performance, comfort, and reliability.
This series encompasses the Excel, XLS, and XLS+, as well as the upcoming Ascend, which are popular for business and personal travel. The Excel lineup has become incredibly popular, filling a niche as the most economical and easily accessible mid-size jet. Its performance and comfort punch well above its weight, and operating costs are closer to light jets than many of its direct competitors. This article explores these three aircraft’s features, advantages, and differences.
Citation Excel
Introduced in the late 1990s, the Citation Excel quickly became a favorite among private jet owners and operators. The Excel is designed for comfort and efficiency and is known for its spacious cabin and impressive range.
Key Features:
- Capacity: The Citation Excel typically seats 7 to 8 passengers, making it ideal for small groups or business teams.
- Cabin Comfort: The Excel’s stand-up cabin is 5 feet 8 inches high, providing a comfortable environment for passengers. The cabin also has amenities such as a refreshment center and ample storage.
- Performance: The Excel boasts a range of approximately 1,800 nautical miles, enabling it to fly non-stop on many routes, such as New York to Miami or Los Angeles to Seattle.
Citation XLS
Building on the success of the Excel, the Citation XLS was introduced in 2004. This model offers enhanced performance and updated technology while retaining the comfort and spaciousness of its predecessor.
Key Features:
- Capacity and Comfort: Similar to the Excel, the XLS seats up to 8 passengers but features improved cabin design, offering a more luxurious travel experience.
- Enhanced Avionics: The XLS has advanced avionics and navigation systems, improving safety and ease of operation.
- Performance: The XLS’s slightly increased range, around 1,900 nautical miles, allows it to withstand longer flights and handle various runway lengths.
Citation XLS+
The Citation XLS+ is the evolution of the XLS, launched in 2008. It incorporates cutting-edge technology and further enhances passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
Key Features:
- Comfortable Cabin: The XLS+ features a redesigned cabin with improved soundproofing, creating an even more pleasant flying experience. The seating configuration remains flexible, accommodating various passenger needs.
- Proline 21 Avionics: The XLS+ uses the venerable Proline 21 avionics suite, one of the most commonly used and sought-after systems of the past 20 years.
- Performance Boost: With improved range, payload, and general performance over the XLS, the XLS+ provides owners with even more operational flexibility than before.
Citation Ascend
The Citation Ascend is the latest iteration in this popular series, with deliveries slated for 2025. It is perhaps the most significant change in the 560XL platform, taking one of Citation’s most versatile airframes and packing it with the latest technology, safety, and passenger comfort.
Key Features:
- Upgraded Cabin: The Ascend features many cabin improvements, particularly an optional flat floor for greater passenger comfort. Improved sound deadening, revised seats, and more contribute to the best passenger experience the 560XL series offers.
- Advanced Technology: The Ascend features Garmin’s latest G5000 avionics suite, with enhanced technology such as Auto-Throttles, Synthetic Vision, and more to keep your flight crew focused on safe operations.
- Performance Enhancements: With a range of up to 2,100 nautical miles, the Ascend can comfortably handle longer flights, making it suitable for cross-country and some transcontinental operations.
Comparing the Models
While the Cessna Citation Excel, XLS, and XLS+ share a common lineage, they each offer unique advantages:
The Excel best suits those seeking a reliable and spacious jet but doesn’t need the latest technology.
XLS is a solid choice for travelers who want a balance of comfort, performance, and more modern avionics.
XLS+ strikes a middle ground between earlier models and the incoming Ascend. The XLS+ offers completely modernized avionics and cabin improvements without the price tag, and it is waiting for a new Ascend.
The Ascend is ideal for those who prioritize the latest technology, cabin enhancements, and the longest range.
The Citation Excel, XLS, XLS+, and Ascend represent the evolution of Cessna’s commitment to providing quality private jets tailored to meet the needs of business and leisure travelers alike. Each model offers unique benefits, ensuring a suitable option for different preferences and travel requirements. Whether you’re flying for business or planning a personal getaway, these aircraft combine comfort, performance, and reliability, making them top choices in private aviation.
