Cessna Citation Excel Review: A Midsize Jet that Excels in Versatility and Comfort
The Cessna Citation Excel has long been regarded as one of the most reliable and well-rounded jets in the midsize business jet category. First introduced in 1996, the Citation Excel has proven itself as a versatile, high-performance aircraft that combines exceptional range, comfort, and efficiency. Whether you’re flying for business, leisure, or a combination of both, the Excel offers an outstanding balance of features that make it a popular choice among private jet owners, operators, and charter companies.
Design and Build
The Citation Excel has a sleek, modern design, drawing from Cessna’s established reputation for reliability and innovation. Its mid-sized fuselage provides ample cabin space, while its design ensures it is both agile and efficient. Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545B engines, the Excel offers excellent thrust with remarkable fuel efficiency, allowing it to achieve a cruising speed of 430 knots at FL410. It is capable of traveling up to 2,100 nautical miles, making it an ideal choice for both short and medium-haul flights.
One of the standout features of the Citation Excel is its ability to operate from shorter runways compared to many other midsize jets, making it ideal for accessing smaller airports. The maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of the Excel is 20,200 pounds, with a fuel capacity of 6,700 pounds, allowing it to carry a significant payload along with a full fuel load.
Avionics and Systems
Equipped with Honeywell Primus 1000 avionics, the Citation Excel offers a fully integrated flight deck that allows for smooth, efficient operation. The system features a dual digital flight management system (FMS), EFIS (Electronic Flight Instrument System), and traffic collision avoidance system (TCAS), all of which contribute to safer and easier flight operations. The Primus 1000 avionics suite is user-friendly, making it a great choice for both owner-pilots and professional flight crews.
The Excel is also equipped with Weather Radar, Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), and Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B), all of which provide enhanced situational awareness, ensuring safety and precision on every flight.
Cabin Comfort and Layout
The Citation Excel shines in its spacious, comfortable cabin. The cabin’s height of 5’7” and width of 5’5” allow for ample headroom and a feeling of openness, while the interior design ensures that passengers enjoy a relaxing flight experience. The cabin is configured to seat 7-9 passengers, with the standard configuration featuring double-club seating and a forward-facing seat arrangement. There is plenty of room for passengers to move around and enjoy the flight, whether working, relaxing, or entertaining.
The Excel’s interior is highly customizable, with a wide range of materials, finishes, and layout options available. The soundproofed cabin ensures a quiet environment for meetings, conversations, or relaxation. For passengers seeking comfort on long flights, the reclining seats, ample legroom, and larger windows make for a pleasant environment.
In addition, the Citation Excel boasts a spacious galley, allowing for meal prep and storage of beverages and snacks. The lavatory is fully equipped with a private, enclosed area and an optional external service for added convenience.
Performance and Range
The Citation Excel excels in terms of performance and efficiency, especially when compared to other jets in its class. With its maximum cruise speed of 430 knots and a range of 2,100 nautical miles, it is well-suited for both short regional flights and longer, intercontinental trips. The jet’s maximum operating altitude is 41,000 feet, allowing it to fly above most weather systems, providing smoother rides for passengers.
In terms of takeoff and landing performance, the Excel can operate from runways as short as 3,560 feet, which makes it perfect for accessing smaller regional airports or private airfields. This is particularly beneficial for travelers who wish to avoid larger, busier commercial airports.
Takeaway
The Cessna Citation Excel remains one of the top choices in the midsize business jet category. It offers a fantastic combination of range, speed, comfort, and efficiency, making it an excellent option for both private owners and business travelers alike. Whether you’re looking for a jet that can handle short regional trips or longer flights, the Citation Excel delivers consistent performance and an enjoyable experience. With its comfortable cabin, efficient systems, and impressive range, the Citation Excel proves that it excels in every area that matters in modern business aviation.
