Cessna Citation CJ3 vs Cessna Citation XLS
The Cessna CJ3 (light jet, single-pilot, ~417 kt) and Citation XLS (mid-size, two-crew- typical, ~441 kt, stand-up cabin) are a light-to-mid-size step-up within the Citation family.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
- For sale now
- 64
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 5
- Source marketplaces
- 7
- Model years available
- 2004–2026
- For sale now
- 29
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 8
- Source marketplaces
- 10
- Model years available
- 2004–2025
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation CJ3 | Cessna Citation XLS |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $4,840,000 – $5,580,000 | $2,276,000 – $13,736,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 391 kts (724 km/h) | 433 kts (802 km/h) |
| Range | 1,875 nm (3,472 km) | 1,796 nm (3,326 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 13,870 lbs (6,291 kg) | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) |
| Useful Load | 3,230 lbs (1,465 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 438.0 gal (1658 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) | 185.0 GPH (700 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 4,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $275,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $335,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $1,850 | $2,400 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation CJ3
Cessna Citation XLS
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation CJ3 or Cessna Citation XLS?
Bottom line: Choose the CJ3 for single-pilot certification, light-jet economics and the straight-wing CitationJet handling. Step up to the XLS for the genuine mid-size stand-up cabin and more range — when cabin size justifies higher operating cost.
Pick the Citation CJ3 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$1850/hr vs $2400/hr.
- Longer range — 1875 nm vs 1796 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2004 vs 2003.
- More inventory — 56 listings vs 27.
Pick the Citation XLS if…
- Budget matters — from $2,276,000 vs $4,840,000, you save ~$2,564,000.
- Faster cruise — 433 kts vs 391 kts.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.