About the TEXTRON AVIATION INC 560XL
The Textron Aviation Inc. 560XL, commonly known as the Cessna Citation Excel or XLS/XLS+, represents one of the most popular and significant models in the light-to-mid-size business jet category. The aircraft's development aimed to fill a niche between the smaller Citation business jets and larger jet offerings, providing a blend of performance, comfort, and operational versatility that has made it a favorite among corporate executives and private owners since its introduction in the late 1990s.
The Citation Excel first took flight in February 1996, with deliveries beginning in 1998. It was developed as a response to customer demand for a jet that combined the best features of the Citation X and the Citation V Ultra. The goal was to offer a cabin similar in size to the Citation X but at a more competitive price and with operational costs akin to smaller jets. This approach was meant to attract operators needing a mid-size cabin experience without the complexities and higher costs associated with larger jets.
Key Features and Capabilities
The Citation Excel features a spacious cabin designed to comfortably accommodate up to nine passengers, with a variety of seating configurations available. Its Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545A engines deliver a robust performance, enabling a maximum cruise speed of about 430 knots and a range of approximately 1,800 nautical miles. The aircraft also boasts impressive short-field performance, making it versatile enough to operate from smaller airports and airfields, a notable advantage for reaching destinations not accessible to larger jets.
In 2004, the upgraded Citation XLS was introduced, featuring enhanced avionics, improved performance, and better amenities. This was followed in 2008 by the Citation XLS+, which added high-end features and modernized systems such as a glass cockpit with Garmin Primus 1000 avionics and upgraded engines for improved efficiency.
Market Position and Use Cases
The Textron Aviation Inc. 560XL series has maintained its popularity due to its balance of cost-efficiency, performance, and cabin comfort, making it a staple in the business jet market and a testament to Cessna's ability to adapt and meet market demands.