Learjet 60 vs Cessna Citation XLS

The Learjet 60 (midsize, ~466 kt) and Citation XLS (mid-size, ~441 kt) are mid-size rivals — the Learjet is faster with the swept-wing identity; the XLS has the segment-defining mid-size cabin and best-selling track record.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Learjet 60
For sale now
44
Median asking
$3,650,000
Range
$2,331,500–$4,975,000
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
20
Source marketplaces
11
Model years available
1994–2013
Cessna Citation XLS
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.

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)Learjet 60Cessna Citation XLS
All events8
Serious0
Fatal0
Fatalities0
% Fatal0%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Learjet 60 Cessna Citation XLS
Learjet 60
View 43 listings →
Median $3,650,000
Cessna Citation XLS
View 27 listings →
Median $6,495,000
Price Range $2,331,500 – $4,975,000 $2,276,000 – $13,736,000
Category Midsize Jet Midsize Jet
Model Specifications
Seats 10 9
Cruise Speed 438 kts (811 km/h) 433 kts (802 km/h)
Range 2,405 nm (4,454 km) 1,796 nm (3,326 km)
Service Ceiling 51,000 ft (15,545 m) 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Max Gross Weight 23,500 lbs (10,660 kg) 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg)
Useful Load 5,800 lbs (2,631 kg)
Fuel Capacity 635.0 gal (2403 L)
Fuel Burn 185.0 GPH (700 L/h) 185.0 GPH (700 L/h)
TBO 5,000 hrs 4,500 hrs
Overhaul Cost $450,000 $400,000
Annual Fixed $380,000 $350,000
Hourly Variable $2,800 $2,400
Engines 2 x Turbofan 2 x Turbofan

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Learjet 60

Fuel$1,018/hr
Variable$2,800/hr
Annual Fixed$380,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $940,000/yr

Cessna Citation XLS

Fuel$1,018/hr
Variable$2,400/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $830,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Learjet 60 or Cessna Citation XLS?

Bottom line: Choose the Citation XLS for the proven mid-size cabin, Cessna support and single-pilot-capable operations. Choose the Learjet 60 for ~25 kt more speed and ramp presence — accepting the narrower Learjet cabin.

Pick the 60 if…

  • More seats — 10 vs 9.
  • Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 433 kts.
  • Longer range — 2405 nm vs 1796 nm.
  • More inventory — 43 listings vs 27.

Pick the Citation XLS if…

  • Budget matters — from $2,276,000 vs $2,331,500, you save ~$55,500.
  • Lower operating cost — ~$2400/hr vs $2800/hr.
  • Newer design — production from 2003 vs 1993.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Learjet 60 or Cessna Citation XLS?
It depends on your mission and budget. The 60 cruises at 438 kts with 2,405 nm range. The Citation XLS cruises at 433 kts with 1,796 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Learjet 60 and Cessna Citation XLS?
60 engine: Pratt & Whitney Canada PW305. Seats: 10 vs 9. Cruise: 438 vs 433 kts. Range: 2405 vs 1796 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
60: about $2800/hr variable cost. Citation XLS: about $2400/hr variable cost. Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
60: 10 seats / 5,800 lb useful load. Citation XLS: 9 seats. Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
60: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$450,000. Citation XLS: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000. Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data