Cessna Citation XLS+ Aircraft in Illinois

The Cessna Citation X is the fastest civilian aircraft in the world short of the now-retired Concorde — certified to Mach 0.935 and routinely cruising at Mach 0.90 (480+ KTAS). Powered by two Rolls-Royce AE3007C engines (6,442 lbs thrust each), the Citation X seats eight to twelve passengers in a large cabin and delivers 3,460 nm range. Produced from 1996 to 2018 across the Citation X and Citation X+ variants, approximately 340 were delivered. If speed is the priority, nothing in business aviation touches the Citation X.

Key variants. The Citation X (1996-2012): original model with Honeywell Primus 2000 avionics, Mach 0.92 cruise capability. The Citation X+ (2014-2018): upgraded with Garmin G5000 avionics, Mach 0.935 certification, improved cabin, and autothrottles. The X+ is significantly more capable and desirable.

Why the Citation X. When time equals money, the X saves more of it than any other business jet. On a coast-to-coast US flight, the X arrives 30-45 minutes before a G550 or Challenger 604. The swept wing and supercritical airfoil design make the X a genuine Mach 0.90+ cruiser — not just a marketing number. The cabin is surprisingly comfortable for a speed machine, with a 5-foot-8-inch stand-up height and flat floor.

Buying advice. Rolls-Royce AE3007C engines are the critical cost item — overhaul costs $1M+ per engine, and Rolls-Royce CorporateCare enrollment is essential for resale value. Fuel burn at Mach 0.90 is significant: 275-310 GPH. Operating costs run $5,000-$6,000/hr all-in at high-speed cruise. Scheduled maintenance follows Cessna MSG-3 program with 200-hour, 600-hour, and progressive inspection intervals. Check for wing skin fatigue compliance, thrust reverser condition, and APU serviceability.

Market. Citation X: $2.5M-$6M. Citation X+: $8M-$14M. A Cessna Citation X for sale is for the buyer who values speed above all else — the ultimate time machine in business aviation.