Cessna Citation XLS vs Learjet 45
The Cessna Citation XLS and Learjet 45 are popular light/midsize jets often cross-shopped. The single-pilot-capable XLS offers a wider, taller stand-up midsize-cabin interior with easy handling, while the swept-wing, TFE731-powered Learjet 45 is a fast two-crew light jet with strong high-altitude cruise and a sleeker profile.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
- For sale now
- 29
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 8
- Source marketplaces
- 10
- Model years available
- 2004–2025
- For sale now
- 61
- Median asking
- $2,345,000
- Range
- $1,761,250–$7,125,000
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 25
- Source marketplaces
- 11
- Model years available
- 1999–2012
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Cessna Citation XLS | Learjet 45 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 16 |
| Serious | — | 1 |
| Fatal | — | 3 |
| Fatalities | — | 15 |
| % Fatal | — | 19% |
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation XLS | Learjet 45 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $2,276,000 – $13,736,000 | $1,761,250 – $7,125,000 |
| Category | Midsize Jet | Light Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 433 kts (802 km/h) | 438 kts (811 km/h) |
| Range | 1,796 nm (3,326 km) | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 575.0 gal (2176 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 185.0 GPH (700 L/h) | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) |
| TBO | 4,500 hrs | 5,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,400 | $2,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation XLS
Learjet 45
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation XLS or Learjet 45?
Bottom line: Choose the XLS for a larger stand-up cabin, single-pilot capability, and broad Citation support; pick the Learjet 45 for swept-wing speed and a classic jet feel. Cabin size, crew requirements, and operating costs typically decide this pairing.
Pick the Citation XLS if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$2400/hr vs $2500/hr.
- Newer design — production from 2003 vs 1997.
Pick the 45 if…
- Budget matters — from $1,761,250 vs $2,276,000, you save ~$514,750.
- Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 433 kts.
- Longer range — 2120 nm vs 1796 nm.
- More inventory — 58 listings vs 27.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.