The Cessna Citation Excel: A Benchmark in Midsize Jet Performance
In private aviation, where efficiency meets luxury, the Cessna Citation Excel has established itself as a premier choice. Designed for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and discerning travelers, the Excel is a perfect blend of performance, cabin comfort, and operational flexibility—all in a midsize jet that delivers more than expected.
With its exceptional short-field capabilities, spacious cabin, and cost-effective operating profile, the Citation Excel remains one of the most sought-after aircraft in its class. But what makes it stand out? Let’s take a closer look.
Performance & Range: The Perfect Balance of Power and Efficiency
With Cessna’s engineering expertise at its core, the Citation Excel delivers impressive performance metrics that make it ideal for both short regional hops and cross-country flights.
- Maximum Range: 1,989 nautical miles (3,683 km)
- Maximum Cruise Speed: 433 knots (499 mph)
- Long-Range Cruise Speed: 373 knots
- Maximum Altitude: 45,000 feet
The Excel easily connects major business and leisure hubs, offering nonstop flights between cities like New York and Miami or Los Angeles and Chicago. With a climb rate of 3,500 feet per minute, it reaches cruising altitude quickly, reducing flight time and optimizing fuel efficiency.
Engine Power & Takeoff Performance
Equipped with two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545B engines, each producing 3,975 pounds of thrust, the Excel excels in both performance and runway accessibility.
- Takeoff Distance: Just 3,590 feet, allowing access to shorter runways than many competitors
- Landing Distance: Approximately 3,600 feet, offering greater flexibility for airport selection
For those who require operational versatility, the Citation Excel’s ability to land at smaller regional airports opens up a broader range of travel options—bringing you closer to your destination with fewer delays and congestion.
Cabin Experience: Designed for Productivity & Comfort
Step inside the Citation Excel, and you’ll find a cabin designed to enhance every aspect of private travel—whether you’re working, resting, or hosting in-flight meetings.
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- Cabin Length: 18 ft 7 in
- Cabin Width: 5 ft 5 in
- Cabin Height: 5 ft 7 in
- Cabin Volume: 422 cu ft
The Excel typically accommodates up to 8 passengers, with configurations that allow for club seating, fold-out worktables, and even an optional three-person divan for added flexibility.
A Thoughtfully Designed Cabin
✅ Large panoramic windows flood the cabin with natural light
✅ Triple-sealed entry door ensures a quieter, more comfortable flight
✅ Fold-out tables & executive seating for productivity on the go
✅ Full refreshment center for in-flight convenience
With a cabin altitude optimized for reduced fatigue, longer journeys in the Citation Excel remain comfortable and efficient, allowing you to arrive refreshed and ready for business.
Ownership & Operating Costs: Maximizing Value
For owners and charter operators, the Citation Excel offers one of the best value propositions in the midsize jet segment.
Pricing & Market Value
- Pre-Owned Market Price: Approximately $3.4 million, depending on age, condition, and avionics upgrades
- While the original Citation Excel is no longer in production, the most current iteration, the Cessna Citation Ascend, is set to begin deliveries in 2025 with a starting price of $16.725 million.
Operating Costs
- Hourly Operating Cost: ~$2,507
- Annual Budget: Estimated at $2.06 million (based on 450 flight hours per year)
With a well-structured maintenance program and efficient fuel consumption, the Citation Excel minimizes downtime while keeping long-term ownership costs manageable.
How Does the Citation Excel Compare?
| Feature | Cessna Citation Excel | Hawker 800XP | Learjet 60 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Range | 1,989 nm | 2,540 nm | 2,405 nm |
| Cruise Speed | 433 knots | 442 knots | 465 knots |
| Takeoff Distance | 3,590 ft | 5,032 ft | 5,450 ft |
| Cabin Width | 5 ft 5 in | 6 ft 0 in | 5 ft 9 in |
| Operating Cost per Hour | ~$2,507 | ~$2,750 | ~$2,900 |
| Passenger Capacity | 7-8 | 8-9 | 7-8 |
The Citation Excel’s combination of short-field capability, comfortable cabin, and efficient operating costs makes it a top-tier choice for midsize jet buyers and charter operators alike.
Final Thoughts: Why the Citation Excel?
For those seeking a jet that offers more than just transportation—for those who demand an aircraft that combines efficiency, comfort, and reliability—the Cessna Citation Excel remains an exceptional choice.
✅ Short-field performance without sacrificing range
✅ Spacious, well-appointed cabin designed for work and relaxation
✅ Competitive operating costs and strong residual value
In private aviation, where flexibility is key and time is everything, the Citation Excel ensures you maximize both.
Finding the Right Citation Excel
The right jet isn’t always the one sitting on the open market—it’s the one that fits your needs perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a Citation Excel, XLS, XLS+, or another private jet entirely, having the right connections makes all the difference.
Tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll take care of the rest.