Quick Look: Citation Excel

Straight-wing Citations have always been good performers off small runways, and the Excel continues the tradition. Even better, you could now have a stand-up cabin—as long as you’re shorter than about six feet and standing in the dropped aisle. Once off the runway, the Excel climbs at 3,000 to 4,000 feet per minute at 250 KIAS, according to one XLS operator.

At altitude, the Excel is hobbled by that straight wing but still cruises at a respectable 415 KTAS/Mach 0.72. Later models (XLS and XLS+) can reach 430 KTAS. Of course, if the Excel gets you to a smaller runway closer to your final destination, the speed disadvantage compared to its swept-wing competitors evaporates. Cruise fuel burn is 1,200 to 1,300 pounds per hour, and with 1,006 gallons/6,740 pounds of fuel, operators can expect a 1,600- to 2,000-nautical-mile range. The XLS bests the original by about 20 KTAS and boosts range to a max of 2,500 nautical miles.

An APU was an option in the original Excel but became standard with the XLS, which was introduced in 2004. Most operators desire the APU, which adds convenience and comfort but also increases the price and weight. Operators also praise the Excel’s large baggage compartment. There is no single-pilot waiver for the Excel, however. One of the best features in buying a Citation is the worldwide service network.

Complaints of the design are few, but some consider the Excel’s flap/horizontal stabilizer interconnect to be odd. The horizontal stabilizer automatically changes its angle of incidence when flaps are extended to provide more elevator authority for takeoff and landing. When it moves, be ready with lots of trim or let the autopilot handle it. Otherwise, the Excel is known for being easy to fly and possessing excellent handling characteristics.

The Excel uses Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics featuring 8-by-7-inch primary flight displays and a centrally mounted multifunction display. A single Universal UNS-1 flight management system provides navigation. A second FMS is optional. Excels without the optional externally serviceable lavatory are subject to a value penalty.

The XLS brought improvements to avionics, a redesigned interior, and a 200-pound-higher maximum takeoff weight. The XLS uses EECs to control thrust, so pilots need only select click stops for desired thrust settings. The XLS+, introduced in 2008, offers further avionics improvements, restyled cockpit and cabin seats, and true FADEC control for the engines.

The XLS+ rings in at an average $2,302.54 per hour to operate, according to a Conklin and de Decker analysis. Vref values range from $2.8 million for a 1998 Excel to $11 million for a 2015 XLS+.

Pete Bedell is a pilot for a major airline and co-owner of a Cessna 172 and Beechcraft Baron D55.