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Bombardier Challenger 3500 vs Cessna Citation Xls

Both the Bombardier Challenger 3500 and the Cessna Citation XLS+ are business jets, but they sit in different size classes. The Challenger 3500 is typically considered a super‑midsize jet, offering a larger cabin and generally longer‑leg capability, while the Citation XLS+ is commonly categorized as a midsize jet, optimized for efficient missions with strong airport flexibility. On range, the Challenger 3500 usually provides a higher maximum range than the XLS+, making it better suited to longer nonstop city pairs and more buffer for headwinds or alternate requirements. The XLS+ has a shorter maximum range in comparison, but remains well matched to regional and mid‑length routes, especially when operating with full passenger loads and baggage. For passenger capacity, both can be configured in similar ways, but the Challenger 3500 typically accommodates more passengers comfortably in standard layouts, often around eight to ten, whereas the Citation XLS+ is frequently arranged for about seven to nine, depending on configuration and operator preferences.

SpecBombardier Challenger 3500Cessna Citation XLS+
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 6.71$ 5.34
Min Crew22
Total Seats1010
ManufacturerBombardierCessna Citation
Aircraft NameChallenger 3500XLS+
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)34001906
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.84$ 0.67
Max Cabin Seats109
OEM VerificationVERIFIEDVERIFIED
Useful Load (lbs)159507540
Standard Cabin Seats88
Direct Operating Cost$ 3,152$ 2,303
Flight Deck (Base Spec)Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 AdvancedRockwell Collins Pro Line 21
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)533430
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$26,950,000$15,500,000
Cabin
Cockpit22
Lavatory1 Enclosed Flushing1 Enclosed Belted Flushing
Min Crew22
Crew RestNoNo
Jump SeatYesNo
Total Seats1010
Galley LocationFWDFWD
Max Cabin Seats109
Lavatory LocationAFTAFT
Cabin Pressure (psi)8.89.3
Galley / RefreshmentGalleyGalley
Standard Cabin Seats88
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)2333825230
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelHTF73500PW545C
TBO (hrs)On-Condition5000
Flat RatingISA + 15ISA + 10
Thrust (lbs)73234119
No. of Engines22
Dimensions
Length (ft)68.752.5
Wingspan (ft)6956.3
Aisle Step (ft)Flat Floor0.7
Cabin Width (ft)7.25.5
Cabin Height (ft)65.7
Cabin Length (ft)25.218.5
Overall Height (ft)2017.2
Cabin Width - Floor (ft)5.13.9
Cabin Length - Seating (ft)16.614.3
Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft)10610
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)80