Phenom 300 vs Citation XLS — Full Specifications
A complete side-by-side comparison of the Embraer Phenom 300 and Cessna Citation XLS. Both aircraft serve the Light Jet and Mid Jet markets, and understanding their differences is critical for making the right charter or acquisition decision.
| Specification | Phenom 300 | Citation XLS |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Light Jet | Mid Jet |
| Manufacturer | Embraer Executive Jets | Cessna Aircraft Company (Textron Aviation) |
| Cruise Speed | 453 kt | 441 kt |
| Range | 2,010 NM | 2,100 NM |
| Passengers | 10 | 9 |
| Registered Fleet | 213 | 273 |
| Charter Rate | $3,500–$5,500/hr | $4,000–$6,500/hr |
Speed & Performance
The Phenom 300 cruises 12 knots faster at 453 kt versus 441 kt. In practice, this difference is marginal on most routes.
At 453 kt, the Phenom 300 qualifies as a high-speed platform suitable for time-sensitive missions. The Citation XLS at 441 kt performs well within its category benchmarks.
Range & Mission Capability
The Citation XLS reaches further at 2100 NM versus 2010 NM — 90 NM more range. Both cover similar distances nonstop.
Both aircraft handle coast-to-coast US missions comfortably. For transoceanic flights, a fuel stop may be required depending on routing and payload.
Cabin & Passengers
The Phenom 300 seats 10 passengers versus 9 for the Citation XLS. Both accommodate similar party sizes.
Cabin configuration, baggage capacity, and in-flight amenities vary by individual aircraft. Contact The Jet Finder for specific tail-level cabin details when chartering either the Phenom 300 or Citation XLS.
Charter Cost Comparison
The Phenom 300 typically charters at $3,500–$5,500/hr while the Citation XLS runs $4,000–$6,500/hr. The category difference means different cost structures. Your budget and mission requirements will determine the right choice.
For acquisition, pre-owned Phenom 300 aircraft and Citation XLS aircraft are available through The Jet Finder's acquisition advisory service. Fleet sizes of 213 and 273 respectively provide adequate market liquidity.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the Phenom 300 if speed is your priority. It suits short regional missions with smaller groups.
Choose the Citation XLS if you need more range. It delivers strong value across diverse missions.
Phenom 300 vs Citation XLS — Frequently Asked Questions
12 questions comparing the Phenom 300 and Citation XLS
The Phenom 300 cruises 12 knots faster at 453 kt versus 441 kt. In practice, this difference is marginal on most routes.
The Citation XLS reaches further at 2100 NM versus 2010 NM — 90 NM more range. Both cover similar distances nonstop.
The Phenom 300 seats 10 passengers versus 9 for the Citation XLS. Both accommodate similar party sizes.
The Phenom 300 charters at approximately $3,500–$5,500/hr and the Citation XLS at approximately $4,000–$6,500/hr. Actual pricing varies by route, season, and operator. Contact The Jet Finder for a specific quote on either aircraft.
The Citation XLS is better suited for long-haul flights at 2100 NM versus 2010 NM for the Phenom 300.
The choice between a Phenom 300 and Citation XLS depends on your mission profile. If speed and range are priorities, each has its own advantages. Contact The Jet Finder for acquisition advisory to match the right aircraft to your specific needs.
The FAA registry shows 213 Phenom 300 aircraft and 273 Citation XLS aircraft currently registered. The Citation XLS's larger fleet provides more options for charter and acquisition.
Both the Phenom 300 and Citation XLS are available for charter through The Jet Finder. We access 15,000+ aircraft worldwide with no membership required. Contact us to check same-day availability on either aircraft.
The Phenom 300 is a Light Jet while the Citation XLS is a Mid Jet. This category difference affects cabin size, operating costs, and mission capability.
Operating costs depend on fuel burn, maintenance intervals, insurance, and crew requirements. The Light Jet (Phenom 300) typically has lower operating costs than the Mid Jet (Citation XLS). Contact The Jet Finder for detailed cost analysis.
For short missions under 1,000 NM, both aircraft perform well. The Phenom 300's higher cruise speed shaves minutes off shorter routes. Airport compatibility and runway requirements may be more decisive than raw performance on short trips.
The Jet Finder provides acquisition advisory for both the Phenom 300 and Citation XLS. With 486 combined aircraft in the registry, pre-owned options are available. Visit our acquisitions page or contact our team for current market inventory.
Charter or Acquire Either Aircraft
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