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.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 60 | Cessna Citation XLS+ |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $2,275,000 – $5,500,000 | $6,500,000 – $15,295,000 |
| Category | Midsize Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 10 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 441 kts (817 km/h) |
| Range | 2,405 nm (4,454 km) | 2,100 nm (3,889 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 | $420,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $380,000 | $380,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,800 | $2,500 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 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$2,500/hr
Annual Fixed$380,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$880,000/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…
- Budget matters — from $2,275,000 vs $6,500,000, you save ~$4,225,000.
- More seats — 10 vs 9.
- Longer range — 2405 nm vs 2100 nm.
- More inventory — 52 listings vs 34.
Pick the Citation XLS+ if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$2500/hr vs $2800/hr.
- Faster cruise — 441 kts vs 438 kts.
- Newer design — production from 2008 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 441 kts with 2,100 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation XLS+: from $7,500,000.
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 441 kts.
Range: 2405 vs 2100 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
60: about $2800/hr variable cost.
Citation XLS+: about $2500/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 ~$420,000.
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