The Cessna Citation Excel is a popular mid-sized business jet that has gained a reputation for its versatility, performance, and comfort. Produced by the Cessna Aircraft Company, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation, the Citation Excel was first introduced in 1997 and has since become a prominent member of the Citation family of jets.
One of the standout features of the Citation Excel is its spacious cabin, offering ample room for passengers to relax and conduct business. The interior typically accommodates up to eight passengers, with a well-designed layout that includes comfortable seating, fold-out work tables, and a quiet, pressurised environment for optimal comfort during flights. The cabin is also equipped with a refreshment centre and a private lavatory for added convenience.
In terms of performance, the Citation Excel excels (no pun intended) in various aspects. It is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545A engines, providing a respectable cruise speed of around 430 knots (796 kilometres per hour) and a maximum range of approximately 1,858 nautical miles (3,441 kilometres). This allows for nonstop flights between many popular city pairs, making it a preferred choice for business travellers who need to cover medium-range distances efficiently.
The aircraft’s short takeoff and landing capabilities are another advantage, enabling it to access airports with shorter runways and operate from airports with more challenging environmental conditions. This flexibility in airport selection enhances the Citation Excel’s accessibility, ensuring that it can reach a wide range of destinations, including smaller regional airports.
The Citation Excel incorporates advanced avionics and systems, contributing to its reputation for reliability and ease of operation. Pilots benefit from the Garmin G5000 avionics suite, which includes an integrated flight deck with touchscreen controls, synthetic vision technology, and advanced navigation and communication capabilities. These features enhance situational awareness and reduce pilot workload, promoting a safe and efficient flying experience.
Over the years, the Citation Excel has undergone several upgrades and evolutions, resulting in improved models such as the Citation XLS and Citation XLS+. These upgraded variants offer enhanced performance, increased range, and updated avionics, further solidifying the aircraft’s position as a top choice in the mid-sized business jet market.