Midsize Jet - Legacy Production
Cessna Citation XLS+: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
Cessna Aircraft Company (Textron Aviation)
Cessna Citation XLS+: Complete Specs, Performance, and Buyer's Guide (2026)
The Cessna Citation XLS+, produced from 2008 to 2022, is the third generation of the Citation XLS family and Textron Aviation's longest-running XLS variant, with 14 years of production making it one of the most prolific midsize jets ever built. The XLS+ introduced upgraded Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545C engines producing 4,119 lbf each (vs the XLS's 3,800 lbf PW545A), Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 glass-panel avionics with four-screen LCD EFIS displays (replacing Honeywell Primus 1000), an extended contour nose for improved aerodynamics, and a comprehensively refined cabin. Powered by these upgraded engines, the XLS+ delivers 1,858 nautical miles of range with 4 passengers, 441 ktas (Mach 0.80) maximum cruise, a 45,000 ft service ceiling, and a 3,560 ft minimum takeoff distance with 15-minute climb to cruise altitude. Cabin seating accommodates up to 9 passengers. FAA certified May 30, 2008. Pre-owned market today: $5 to $9 million.
For operators wanting the longest production XLS variant with proven Pro Line 21 avionics and refined cabin, the XLS+ remains a strong choice.
Citation XLS+ Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Midsize Jet - Legacy Production |
| Production Status | Discontinued 2022 (replaced by XLS Gen2) |
| FAA Type Certification | May 30, 2008 |
| Production Years | 2008 to 2022 (14 years) |
| Predecessor | Citation XLS (2004-2008) |
| Successor | Citation XLS Gen2 (2022-Present) |
| Crew | 2 pilots |
| Passengers (Standard) | 8 to 9 |
| Passengers (Max) | 12 |
| Max Range (NBAA IFR, 4 pax) | 1,858 nm |
| Range (NBAA IFR, seats full) | 1,719 nm |
| Max Cruise Speed | 441 ktas (Mach 0.80) |
| Long-Range Cruise | 400 ktas |
| Max Operating Altitude | 45,000 ft |
| Climb Time to Cruise Altitude | 15 minutes |
| Engines | 2× Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545C turbofans |
| Thrust per Engine | 4,119 lbf (8,238 lbf total) |
| Thrust Upgrade Over XLS | +319 lbf per engine |
| Avionics | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 (glass-panel, 4-screen LCD EFIS) |
| Cabin Length | 18 ft 6 in (some sources 18.7 ft) |
| Cabin Width | 5.5 ft (66 in) |
| Cabin Height | 5.7 ft (68 in - stand-up) |
| Cabin Volume | 577 cubic ft |
| Total Baggage Volume | 90 cu ft (10 internal + 80 external) |
| Minimum Takeoff Distance | 3,560 ft |
| Balanced Field Length | 3,812 ft |
| Pre-Owned Price (2025) | $5,000,000 to $9,000,000 |
History as the Longest-Running XLS Variant
The Citation XLS+ entered production in 2008, succeeding the Citation XLS and continuing the Excel-platform lineage. The XLS+ became Textron Aviation's longest-running variant in the XLS family, with 14 years of production.
Platform timeline:
- 1998: Citation Excel introduced (original)
- 2004: Citation XLS replaces Excel
- 2006: Citation XLS+ announced
- 2007: Citation XLS+ first flight
- May 30, 2008: FAA certification
- March 2009: EASA certification
- 2008-2022: Production run (14 years)
- 2022: Citation XLS Gen2 replaces XLS+
The XLS+ established itself as one of the most popular midsize jets ever produced, serving extensively in corporate flight departments, charter fleets, and fractional ownership programs.
Key Improvements Over Citation XLS
The XLS+ introduced substantial upgrades over the predecessor XLS:
1. Upgraded PW545C Engines
The Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545C engines replaced the XLS's PW545A:
- 4,119 lbf thrust per engine: vs 3,800 lbf on XLS (+319 lbf each)
- 3.8:1 bypass ratio: Improved efficiency
- Auxiliary power unit: For engine start and cabin temperature
- 18.32 kN per side: Strong thrust margin
- Better hot-and-high performance: Substantial improvement
2. Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Avionics
The Pro Line 21 glass-panel system replaced the XLS's Primus 1000:
- Four-screen LCD EFIS displays: Modern glass cockpit
- Flat panel active matrix LCDs: For pilot and copilot
- XM broadcast graphical weather: Available option
- File server for charts and maps: Standard
- Integrated FMS: Modern flight management
- Common retrofits: ADS-B Out, WAAS/LPV upgrades
3. Extended Contour Nose
The XLS+ introduced an extended contour nose:
- Improved aerodynamics: Reduced drag at cruise
- Slightly faster cruise speed: 441 ktas vs XLS's 433 ktas
- Updated visual identity: Modernized appearance
4. Refined Cabin
The XLS+ cabin received substantial refinement:
- 9-passenger cabin: Plus 2 crew
- Two air conditioning systems: Comfort in extreme temperatures
- Triple-sealed entry door: Quieter cabin
- Triple-pane windows: Improved insulation
- Fold-out tables: Standard
- Sliding headrests: Adjustable comfort
- 2-4 inch wider seats: Vs previous models
- Standard couch: Rated to takeoff/landing safety standards
- Indirect LED lighting: Modern roomier feel
5. Improved Systems
- Long-travel trailing link landing gear: Smooth landings and taxi
- High-capacity carbon brakes: Superior braking
- Minimal brake wear: Reliable operation
- Riveted, hot-bonded aluminum alloy frame: Reduced assembly cost
- Straight-wing design + narrower pointed nose: Drag reduction
Cabin Interior
The XLS+ cabin is one of the most spacious in the midsize class:
| Cabin Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Cabin Length | 18 ft 7 in (5.64 m) |
| Cabin Width | 5.5 ft (66 inches) |
| Cabin Height | 5.7 ft (68 inches - stand-up) |
| Cabin Volume | 577 cubic ft |
Seating Configurations
- Standard 8-Passenger Double Club: Classic executive layout
- Up to 9 Passengers: Standard maximum
- 12 Maximum Certified: High-density options
- Belted lavatory: Standard
- Center-club configuration option: Alternative layout
Cabin Features
- Triple-sealed entry door: Quieter cabin operation
- Triple-pane windows: Better insulation
- Two air conditioning systems: Extreme temperature comfort
- Standard couch: Takeoff/landing safety rated
- Indirect LED lighting: Modern ambience
- Wider seats (2-4 inches): Vs previous models
- Sliding headrests: Adjustable comfort
- Fold-out tables: Standard
- Forward galley: Standard
- Aft enclosed lavatory: Standard
- 90 cu ft baggage: 10 internal + 80 external
Performance
Speed and Range
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Max Cruise Speed | 441 ktas (Mach 0.80) |
| Long-Range Cruise | 400 ktas |
| Range (NBAA IFR, 4 pax) | 1,858 nm |
| Range (Seats Full) | 1,719 nm |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft |
| Time to Cruise | 15 minutes |
Runway Performance
| Field Performance | Value |
|---|---|
| Minimum Takeoff Distance | 3,560 ft |
| Balanced Field Length | 3,812 ft |
| Landing Distance | 3,618 ft |
The XLS+ retains the Excel family's exceptional short-field performance, enabling access to runways that larger midsize jets cannot use.
Typical Mission Examples
- New York to Aspen (1,629 nm)
- Los Angeles to Chicago (1,512 nm)
- Houston to Boston (1,531 nm)
- London to Athens (1,481 nm)
Engines
Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545C turbofan engines, each producing 4,119 lbf of thrust (8,238 lbf total). The PW545C is the upgraded successor to the PW545A used in the original Excel/XLS, with substantially more thrust enabling improved performance.
Avionics: Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21
Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 integrated avionics:
- Four-screen LCD EFIS displays: Glass cockpit modernization
- Flat-panel active-matrix LCDs: Pilot and copilot
- Integrated FMS: Modern flight management
- XM broadcast graphical weather: Optional
- File server for charts/maps: Standard
- TCAS and TAWS: Standard
- Common retrofits: ADS-B Out, WAAS/LPV, Starlink connectivity
Operating Costs
| Cost Item | Per Hour |
|---|---|
| Fuel (~205 gph) | $1,435 to $1,845 |
| Engine Reserve | $450 |
| Airframe Maintenance | $550 |
| Misc Variable | $300 |
| Total Variable Cost | ~$2,735 to $3,145/hr |
Annual operating budget at 450 hours: approximately $2.5 million all-in.
Direct operating cost: $1,476/hr (per Airport Technology); $3.64 per mile.
Charter rates: $5,500 to $6,500 per hour.
Pricing
| Year Range | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 2018 to 2022 Citation XLS+ (final production) | $7,500,000 to $9,000,000 |
| 2014 to 2017 Citation XLS+ | $6,500,000 to $7,500,000 |
| 2010 to 2013 Citation XLS+ | $5,500,000 to $6,500,000 |
| 2008 to 2009 Citation XLS+ (early production) | $5,000,000 to $5,800,000 |
Mission Profile
Best fit profiles:
- Step-Up From Citation XLS or Excel: Modern Pro Line 21 avionics, upgraded engines
- 8-9 Passenger Corporate Flight Departments: Spacious cabin, reliable operations
- Charter and Fractional Operators: Most popular midsize platform
- Short-Field Operators: 3,560 ft takeoff
- Hot-and-High Operators: Upgraded PW545C engines
Less suited if:
- You need single-pilot certification (not certified)
- You require Garmin G5000 avionics (consider XLS Gen2)
- You want longest range in class (consider Praetor 500)
- You need newest production support (consider XLS Gen2)
Pros and Cons
What the Citation XLS+ Does Well
- 14-year production run (longest XLS variant)
- 441 ktas (Mach 0.80) cruise
- 1,858 nm range with 4 passengers
- 45,000 ft service ceiling
- Pro Line 21 modern avionics
- Upgraded PW545C engines (4,119 lbf)
- Extended contour nose for aerodynamics
- 577 cu ft cabin
- 90 cu ft baggage (80 external)
- 3,560 ft takeoff distance
- 15-minute climb to cruise
- Triple-sealed entry door, triple-pane windows
- Long-travel trailing link landing gear
Tradeoffs to Understand
- Two-pilot operation required
- 1,858 nm range modest vs current standards
- Pro Line 21 avionics dated vs current Garmin G5000
- Production ended 2022 (parts via Textron Aviation)
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the Citation XLS+ different from the Citation XLS?
The XLS+ (2008) added upgraded PW545C engines (4,119 lbf vs XLS's 3,800 lbf PW545A), Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 avionics (replacing Primus 1000), extended contour nose for improved aerodynamics, refined cabin with triple-sealed door and triple-pane windows, long-travel trailing link landing gear, and high-capacity carbon brakes. Range improved from 1,800 nm to 1,858 nm.
How is the Citation XLS+ different from the Citation XLS Gen2?
The XLS Gen2 (2022) introduced a comprehensively redesigned cabin with ergonomic leather seats, improved lighting, enhanced noise reduction, refreshed galley, larger windows, and modern cabin technology. The basic airframe, PW545C engines, and core performance specifications carry forward from the XLS+.
How far can a Citation XLS+ fly?
The Citation XLS+ has a maximum NBAA IFR range of 1,858 nautical miles with 4 passengers, or 1,719 nm with seats full.
Is the Citation XLS+ single-pilot certified?
No. The XLS+ requires two pilots.
What engines power the Citation XLS+?
Two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545C turbofan engines, each producing 4,119 lbf of thrust.
How long was the Citation XLS+ in production?
The XLS+ was produced from 2008 to 2022, a 14-year production run that made it one of the most prolific midsize jets ever built.
The Bottom Line
The Cessna Citation XLS+ represents the most-refined evolution of the proven Excel/XLS platform during its 14-year production run, delivering upgraded PW545C engines, modern Pro Line 21 avionics, extended contour nose, and refined cabin with triple-sealed door and triple-pane windows. At current pre-owned pricing of $5 to $9 million, the XLS+ delivers excellent value as a proven midsize workhorse. With one of the largest installed bases of any midsize jet, parts and service support is exceptional.
Quantum Jets supports the platform across private jet charter, private jet rental, private jet card programs, aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, and aircraft leasing structures.
Talk to a Quantum Jets broker for Citation XLS+ market intelligence and pre-buy diligence.
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Book a Cessna Citation XLS+ on the Quantum Jets App by AVIA Technologies
The Quantum Jets mobile app, built by AVIA Technologies, is the private jet charter marketplace app for the Cessna Citation XLS+ and the rest of the Quantum Jets catalog. The Quantum Jets app is available as an iOS app on the Apple App Store and as an Android app on Google Play. Whether the goal is a one-off jet charter, recurring private jet rental, a private jet card program, or a deeper engagement spanning aircraft purchase, jet purchase, jet sales, aircraft management, jet management, private jet management, aircraft maintenance, aircraft refurbishment, fractional jet access, aircraft lease, aircraft leasing, or aircraft sales, the Quantum Jets app surfaces live Cessna Citation XLS+ availability and routes the booking through the Quantum Jets brokerage team.
AVIA Technologies is the technology platform behind the Quantum Jets mobile app. The AVIA Technologies app powers the private jet charter marketplace experience: search the catalog, compare a Cessna Citation XLS+ against alternatives in the same tier, pull live pricing, request a charter quote, schedule aircraft maintenance, list a Cessna Citation XLS+ for jet sales, manage a fleet under aircraft management or private jet management, and execute a private jet card purchase, all from one private jet app. The Quantum Jets app and the AVIA Technologies app share the same backend so client data, trip history, and aircraft preferences carry across both surfaces.
Download the Quantum Jets app on the Apple App Store (iOS app) or Google Play (Android app), then search the Cessna Citation XLS+ to start booking. The Quantum Jets mobile app is the fastest path from research to booking for any private jet, jet charter, private jet rental, or private jet charter marketplace transaction in the Quantum Jets catalog. AVIA Technologies maintains the private jet charter marketplace app on a continuous deployment schedule with new aircraft, new operators, and refined private jet management tooling shipping every release.
Cessna Citation XLS+ Services from Quantum Jets
Quantum Jets supports Cessna Citation XLS+ operators and prospective owners across the full lifecycle of private jet ownership. Whether the goal is jet charter for a one-off trip, a private jet rental for a busy season, or a private jet charter program tied to a recurring travel pattern, our team builds the right structure around the Cessna Citation XLS+ for the mission.
For buyers, our aircraft purchase and jet purchase advisory walks through inspection, valuation, financing, and closing. Jet sales and aircraft sales clients work with our team to position the Cessna Citation XLS+ for the strongest possible exit, with market intelligence on every comparable transaction. A private jet card program through Quantum Jets is a lower-commitment way to access Cessna Citation XLS+-class lift without a full aircraft purchase, and is structured to credit toward a future jet purchase when the time is right.
Once an aircraft is in hand, aircraft management and jet management at Quantum Jets cover crew, scheduling, regulatory compliance, charter revenue programs, and detailed reporting. Private jet management is structured to keep the Cessna Citation XLS+ flying safely and profitably with minimum owner overhead. Aircraft maintenance is coordinated through manufacturer-authorized service centers, and aircraft refurbishment programs (interior, paint, avionics, connectivity) are managed end-to-end so the Cessna Citation XLS+ retains residual value over its operating life.
Fractional jet programs are available for Cessna Citation XLS+-class travelers who want guaranteed access without sole ownership. Aircraft lease and aircraft leasing arrangements (operating, finance, dry, wet) are structured to match the operator's hours, geography, and balance sheet. The Cessna Citation XLS+ fits naturally into all of these structures, and Quantum Jets handles the structuring, documentation, and lifecycle service so the owner can focus on flying.
If you are evaluating a Cessna Citation XLS+ for purchase, charter, lease, fractional access, management, refurbishment, or sale, talk to a Quantum Jets broker for a custom market scan and pre-buy diligence.
Related Aircraft Guides:
- Citation XLS: Predecessor Variant (2004-2008)
- Citation XLS Gen2: Direct Successor (2022-Present)
- Citation Excel: Original Platform (1998-2004)
Production of the Citation XLS+ ended in 2022. All acquisitions are pre-owned. Textron Aviation provides parts/support. Specifications accurate as of 2026.