1998 – 2004
Key Facts
- The Cessna Citation Excel has been in production since 1998, with over 1,000 units delivered to date.
- It is a turbofan-powered, medium-sized business jet with a stand-up cabin and supercritical wing design.
- The Excel can seat up to 10 passengers and has a range of 1,657 nautical miles.
- The aircraft was developed from the Citation V and Citation X models, showcasing Cessna’s expertise in private aviation.
- The Excel’s combination of performance, comfort, and efficiency has made it a popular choice among private aviation clients.
Introduction to the Cessna Citation Excel
The Cessna Citation Excel is a turbofan-powered, medium-sized business jet. It has become a favorite among those who love private aviation. Since its launch in 1998, over 1,000 units have been delivered. It’s known for its great performance, comfort, and efficiency.
This aircraft was made from the Citation V and Citation X models. It has a stand-up cabin and a supercritical wing design.
It also has two Pratt & Whitney PW500 engines for power and reliability. It can carry up to 10 passengers and has a range of 1,657 nautical miles. This makes it a great choice for both personal and business trips.
The Cessna Citation Excel is a key part of private aviation history. It was announced in October 1994 and first flew on February 29, 1996. It got FAA certification in April 1998.
This jet was made to compete with twin-turboprop planes but offers jet speed. It has features from other Citation models. It has the wing of the Citation V Ultra, the tail of the Citation V, and a shorter body from the Citation X.
Between 1998 and 2004, Cessna made 374 Citation Excel models. The Citation XLS, an upgrade, had 330 units made. The Citation XLS+, an even better version, had an unknown number made.
The Cessna Citation Excel flies at 422 knots. It can go 1,839 nautical miles and climb 3,790 feet per minute. It needs about 3,959 feet to take off and 3,755 feet to land.
The Citation 560XL series, including the Excel, XLS, and XLS+, can carry up to 12 people. It can also hold 800 pounds or 90 cubic feet of baggage. Over 1,000 of these planes have been delivered by Cessna, with a 99.4% operational rate.
Key Specifications of the Cessna Citation Excel
The Cessna Citation Excel is a versatile business jet. It has a length of 52 ft 6 in, a wingspan of 56 ft 4 in, and a height of 17 ft 2 in. It can carry up to 9 passengers and 2 crew members comfortably.
The cabin volume is 422 cubic feet. This provides plenty of space for seating and storage. It’s great for both business and leisure trips.
The Citation Excel has two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545A turbofan engines. Each engine produces 3,804 pounds of thrust. This allows it to fly at 380 knots and reach up to 1,160 nautical miles.
It’s equipped with Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics. This gives pilots great situational awareness and an easy-to-use interface. There’s also an optional Honeywell Auxiliary Power Unit for more flexibility.
The Citation Excel has a maximum takeoff weight of 20,200 lb and an empty weight of 12,800 lb. It has 55 cubic feet of baggage space. This makes it practical for carrying personal items on both business and leisure trips.
Powerplant and Performance
The Cessna Citation Excel has two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545A engines. Each engine produces 3,804 pounds of thrust. This setup gives the plane great speed and range.
It can fly at a top speed of 423 knots (783 km/h). It also has a long-range speed of 367 knots (680 km/h). The Citation Excel can travel 1,657 nautical miles, perfect for long trips.
The plane can reach its cruising height in just 18 minutes. It can even take off from runways as short as 3,590 feet. This makes the Citation Excel a top choice for those who need speed and reliability.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Cruise Speed | 423 knots (783 km/h) |
| Long-Range Cruise Speed | 367 knots (680 km/h) |
| Range (with 4 passengers) | 1,657 nautical miles |
| Climb Time to Cruise Altitude | 18 minutes |
| Takeoff Distance | 3,590 feet |
The Citation Excel’s Pratt & Whitney engines and impressive speeds make it great for many uses. It’s perfect for both private and business flying.
Operational Costs of the Cessna Citation Excel
Buying and running a private jet like the Cessna Citation Excel is very expensive. It’s key for those thinking about owning one to know the costs. The two engines use 217 gallons of fuel every hour, which is a big part of the costs.
Maintenance costs are also huge. The Citation Excel has advanced avionics and engines that need a big overhaul every 5,000 hours.
This overhaul costs $2,200,000. Crew salaries, hangar fees, and other costs add up. This makes the yearly operating cost about $1,887,351 if it flies 300 hours a year.
| Cost Category | Annual Amount | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Consumption | – | $1,501 |
| Maintenance | – | $837 |
| Engine Reserves | – | $671 |
| Miscellaneous | – | $230 |
| Crew | $407,550 | – |
| Hangar | $47,800 | – |
| Hull Insurance | $8,775 | – |
| Liability Insurance | $35,000 | – |
| Miscellaneous | $7,050 | – |
| Total Annual Operating Cost | $1,887,351 | $6,291 |
The hourly costs of the Cessna Citation Excel include fuel, maintenance, and other expenses. These costs can be between $2,150 and $2,250 per hour. Anyone thinking of owning this jet needs to think about these costs carefully. They must plan well to run the jet successfully and affordably.
Acquisition Costs
The Cessna Citation Excel is a big deal in the pre-owned market. By November 2021, 96% of these jets were bought used. They stay on the market for about 144 days, giving buyers a chance to find great deals.
Prices for the Citation Excel have changed a lot. In 1999, a new one cost around $8.7 million. But by 2018, ten-year-old models were priced near $4 million. Today, prices vary based on the jet’s age, condition, and any upgrades.
If you’re looking to buy a Cessna Citation Excel, expect to pay between $2.6 million and $2.9 million. This makes it a good choice compared to other jets like the Lear 60 and Hawker 800XP, which cost a bit less.
| Aircraft Model | Acquisition Cost | Market Depreciation | Direct Operating Cost | Annual Fixed Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cessna Citation Excel | $2.6-$2.9 million | $1.7-$1.8 million | $2,270 per flight hour | $522,000-$524,000 |
| Lear 60 | $2.5 million | $1.8 million | $2,500 per flight hour | $580,000 |
| Hawker 800XP | $2.8 million | $1.9 million | $2,880 per flight hour | $570,000 |
The Cessna Citation Excel is a smart choice for those looking for a midsize jet. Its costs, depreciation, and operating expenses are all competitive in the pre-owned market.
Comparison with Similar Aircraft
When looking at the Cessna Citation Excel, it’s key to see how it stacks up against other midsize jets.
It faces competition from the Hawker 800XP, Bombardier Challenger series, and Embraer Phenom 300. Each offers different features like performance, comfort, and cost, making them good choices for business flying.
The Citation Excel has been a top pick since 2004. It can carry up to 8 people and travel 3,200 kilometers. The newer Citation XLS and XLS+ models have even more range and features.
The Learjet 45 is another midsize jet that can hold up to 8 passengers but travels slightly less, about 3,000 kilometers. The Embraer Phenom 300, though, is a big competitor. It can go 3,650 kilometers and seats up to 7 people.
The Citation Excel is fast, reaching speeds of 422 mph (680 km/h), and can travel 1,793 miles (2,885 km). The Phenom 300 is faster, hitting 534 mph (860 km/h), but travels 2,000 nautical miles (3,700 km). The Gulfstream G650, though, has the longest range at 6,950 miles (11,180 km).
Knowing the competition and what the Citation Excel offers helps business flyers make better choices. Its mix of speed, comfort, and cost makes it a strong contender in the midsize jet market.
Advantages of Owning a Cessna Citation Excel
The Cessna Citation Excel has many benefits for those who own and operate it. Its spacious stand-up cabin offers great comfort for passengers. The cabin is 18.7 feet long, 5.6 feet high, and 5.5 feet wide. It can fit up to nine people comfortably.
This aircraft is also great for quick takeoffs and landings. It can start from runways as short as 3,560 feet for takeoff and 3,180 feet for landing. This means you can fly to more airports, saving time and effort. Plus, it climbs fast and flies quickly, making trips between big cities fast and efficient.
Another big plus is the resale value of the Cessna Citation Excel. Since 1998, over 900 aircraft have been sold, keeping their value high. Its good price, efficiency, and low maintenance costs make it a smart choice for buyers.
Remco de Wit / Shutterstock.com
Disadvantages to Consider
The Cessna Citation Excel is known for its great performance and features. Yet, there are some downsides to think about.
One major issue is its higher fuel use compared to newer models. This can cut down its range, making it less ideal for long-distance flights.
Another thing to consider is the cost of updating the Excel’s avionics. As technology gets better, owners might need to spend a lot on upgrades. This can be a big expense, mainly as the plane gets older.
Also, the Excel’s maintenance costs can be high. As it flies more, these costs grow. Owners need to budget a lot for upkeep to keep the plane safe and running well.
Despite these challenges, the Cessna Citation Excel is still a favorite in private flying. Its strong performance, flexibility, and lower buying price make it appealing. Still, buyers should think carefully about the costs of flying, maintenance, and updates before deciding.
Customization and Interior Options
The Cessna Citation Excel offers many customization options. These options include interior designs, avionics upgrades, and performance tweaks. This makes it possible to create a flying experience that’s uniquely yours.
For the interior, owners can pick from various seating setups, cabinetry, and finishes. This lets them design a cabin that shows off their personal style. The Citation Excel Eagle transformation by CitationPartners and Yingling Aviation is a great example. It features new veneer, carpet, seating, and leather for up to nine passengers.
As far as aircraft interiors go, the Citation Excel offers a decent level of luxury travel for business jets.
Avionics upgrades are also a key area for owners looking to boost the aircraft’s features. The Garmin G5000 avionics suite, for example, offers a modern glass flight deck. It comes with advanced features like WAAS GPS-guided LPV approaches and ADS-B out capabilities.
Performance tweaks, like adding winglets, can also be made. These changes can make the Excel more efficient and enjoyable to fly. The Citation Excel Eagle program shows how these upgrades can add value, with the transformed aircraft valued $1.9 million more than the standard model.
With these customization options, Citation Excel owners can make their aircraft truly unique. Whether for business, personal use, or a mix of both, the possibilities are endless.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Cessna Citation Excel has a strong safety record, with just 6 accidents since 2004. It meets or goes beyond the FAA’s strict standards. This ensures it’s safe and reliable for flying.
Safety is key in the Citation Excel’s design and engineering. It has advanced avionics and backup systems. These help pilots stay aware and perform well. The aircraft’s strong build and emergency systems also add to its safety.
| Safety Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Advanced Avionics | The Citation Excel has advanced avionics. This gives pilots better awareness and control. |
| Redundant Systems | It has backup flight and navigation systems. Plus, emergency gear. This means it can keep flying safely even if one part fails. |
| Robust Construction | The Excel’s frame is built to last. It meets the highest standards for strength and durability. |
The Cessna Citation Excel in the Market
The Cessna Citation Excel has been a top choice since 1998. It’s used by many, including private owners and companies. Most of these jets are in North America, with a few in South America and Europe.
Used Citation Excels are still in demand, selling for under $4 million. This makes them a great option for many. They’re affordable and meet the needs of various users.
The Excel stands out for its performance, comfort, and value. It’s favored by business leaders and charter services. Over 1,000 have been made since 1996, showing its flexibility and appeal.
Maintenance Guidelines and Best Practices
Keeping the Cessna Citation Excel in good shape is crucial for safe flying. This means following a detailed inspection schedule, doing engine overhauls on time, and updating avionics. Cessna has a network of service centers in the U.S. to help owners with maintenance and repairs.
Regular preventive maintenance boosts the aircraft’s performance and value. Cessna’s guidelines give a clear schedule for inspections and overhauls. It’s important to stick to these schedules and fix any problems quickly to keep the plane safe and airworthy.
Owners should also focus on proactive maintenance. This includes checking engine health, looking for wear on parts, and fixing issues found before or after flights. Catching problems early can prevent bigger issues later.
| Maintenance Item | Recommended Interval | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Inspections | 100-hour, 200-hour, Annual | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Engine Overhaul | 2,000 – 3,000 hours | $250,000 – $300,000 |
| Avionics Updates | As needed | Variable |
Following Cessna’s maintenance advice helps keep the Citation Excel in top condition. This ensures it flies well, safely, and holds its value. Working with authorized service centers and staying proactive are essential for long-term maintenance success.
Conclusion
The Cessna Citation Excel is a reliable and versatile midsize business jet. It offers great performance, comfort, and long-term value.
Its established track record, efficient Pratt & Whitney engines, and strong support network make it a favorite among private aviation fans and business leaders.
The private aviation market is changing, but the Citation Excel stays relevant. It’s a good choice for those wanting a reliable and affordable private jet.
Its cabin size, range, and speed meet the needs of today’s business travelers. Its safety features and low operating costs also make it appealing for long-term ownership.
Whether you’re new to private jets or have experience, the Cessna Citation Excel stands out. It’s a great mix of performance, comfort, and value in the midsize business jet market. As the private aviation industry grows, the Excel remains a smart investment for those looking to benefit from private aviation and long-term ownership trends.
FAQ
What is the Cessna Citation Excel?
The Cessna Citation Excel is a business jet made by Cessna Aircraft Company. It was introduced in 1998. It has a stand-up cabin and two Pratt & Whitney PW500 engines.
What are the key specifications of the Cessna Citation Excel?
The Citation Excel is 52 ft 6 in long and 56 ft 4 in wide. It’s 17 ft 2 in tall. It can take off with 20,200 lb and weighs 12,800 lb empty.
Its cabin is 422 cubic feet. It can seat 8 passengers and 2 crew members.
What are the performance capabilities of the Cessna Citation Excel?
It has two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545A engines. Each engine produces 3,804 pounds of thrust. It can fly up to 423 knots (783 km/h) and 367 knots (680 km/h) long-range.
It can travel 1,657 nautical miles with four passengers and reserves.
What are the operational costs associated with the Cessna Citation Excel?
The two engines use 217 gallons per hour. Costs include fuel, maintenance, crew, and hangar fees.
How much does the Cessna Citation Excel cost to acquire?
By November 2021, 96% were pre-owned. They stay on the market for 144 days. In 1999, a new one cost $8.7 million. By 2018, they were around $4 million.
How does the Cessna Citation Excel compare to similar aircraft?
It competes with the Hawker 800XP, Bombardier Challenger, Dassault Falcon, and Embraer Phenom 300. It balances performance, comfort, and cost well.
What are the advantages of owning a Cessna Citation Excel?
It has a spacious cabin and can land on short fields. It climbs fast and can use smaller airports. It keeps its value well and has Cessna’s support.
What are the potential drawbacks of the Cessna Citation Excel?
It uses more fuel than some newer jets. It’s not great for long flights. Upgrades and maintenance can be costly.
How can the Cessna Citation Excel be customized?
You can choose different interiors, entertainment, and connectivity. Avionics and performance upgrades are also available.
What are the safety features and ratings of the Cessna Citation Excel?
It has a good safety record with only 6 accidents by 2004. It meets FAA standards. It has advanced avionics and strong construction.
How is the Cessna Citation Excel positioned in the private aviation market?
It’s used by individuals, companies, and charter operators. Most are in North America. It’s still popular in the used market.
What are the maintenance requirements for the Cessna Citation Excel?
Regular checks and updates are key. Cessna has service centers for maintenance. Following guidelines and regulations is crucial for safety and value.
Featured Image: Remco de Wit / Shutterstock.com
