The Citation XLS stands as a testament to Cessna’s commitment to delivering exceptional mid-sized jet travel. With a cabin length of 18.7 feet and a remarkable range of 1,722 miles (equivalent to 1,500 nautical miles), it effortlessly bridges the gap between mid-sized and light private jets. Impressively, this aircraft can take off in a mere 3,560 feet and ascend to cruising altitude within just 18 minutes—a feat often reminiscent of lighter counterparts.

Renowned for its exceptional handling capabilities, robust systems, and a consistent track record of delivering smooth, expedited flights, the XLS is an enhanced version of the Citation Excel, pushing the boundaries to fly faster and further. Within its 5.7-foot high interior, nine passengers find solace in a cabin designed for tranquility and free from drafts, courtesy of triple-sealed entry doors and triple-pane windows. Attention to passenger comfort includes thoughtful additions like fold-out tables, sliding headrests, and seats spanning two to four inches wider than prior models. The standard couch, designed to meet takeoff and landing safety standards, further elevates the in-flight experience. To create a spacious, natural ambiance while minimizing heat and extending durability, the cabin features indirect LED lighting. Storage is abundant, with 80 cubic feet available in an external compartment and additional space within an internal closet.

In the realm of performance, the Citation XLS stands tall, climbing to its flight level of 43,000 feet in just 25 minutes—a remarkable 48 minutes faster than its predecessor, the Excel. With a maximum cruise speed of 431 knots, it offers an impressive range of 1,722 miles (equivalent to 1,500 nautical miles) when carrying four passengers. Remarkably, it can take off on runways as short as 3,560 feet, boasting the shortest takeoff distance among mid-sized jets.

The XLS outshines its competitors, primarily due to its two Pratt & Whitney PW545B engines. These engines, designed with a high-pressure core, generate an impressive 3,975 pounds of thrust each—an impressive 4.5 percent more thrust than the engines used in the Citation Excel. Additionally, enhanced airflow through the engine’s core allows for operation at higher temperatures. The addition of a Teflon seal prevents oil leaks, while the single-channel electronic control engine permits pilots to configure fuel flow at the start of the flight, with the system autonomously managing it throughout. Manual fuel control remains available for emergencies, ensuring safety and flexibility. These engines can achieve .80 Mach uninstalled and boast a specific fuel consumption rate of just 0.709 pounds per hour.

To ensure cabin comfort, even in extreme external temperatures, the Citation XLS comes standard with two air conditioning systems. It prioritizes smooth landings and taxiing through a long-travel trailing link landing gear. Additionally, its high-capacity carbon brakes offer powerful braking capabilities, surpassing many private jets of similar size, while exhibiting minimal wear, maintaining reliability across all systems.

Subtle design details underscore Cessna’s legacy of creating simple yet high-performance jets. The aircraft’s frame, crafted from riveted, hot-bonded aluminum alloy, streamlines assembly costs, with any drag increase offset by the unusually low wing position, effectively reducing overall drag.

The Citation XLS prioritizes pilot needs, simplifying preflight checks and incorporating features such as a surface seal on the windshield to repel rain. Many flight systems only require adjustment once after takeoff, after which they automatically adapt in flight.

The standout feature, however, lies in its pilot-friendly avionics system, the Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics suite. This system consolidates information into three sleek screens, facilitating easy interpretation. Moreover, controls are thoughtfully placed directly on the screen faceplates, enhancing pilot hand-eye coordination and overall flight performance. A new addition to private jet avionics systems, the Citation XLS includes an automatic emergency descent mode system.

In conclusion, the Citation XLS embodies Cessna’s hallmark of excellence in private jet travel. Its fusion of comfort, high performance, and unwavering reliability firmly aligns with Cessna’s distinguished standards, ensuring a superior journey that competently meets the demands of mid-sized jet travel.