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.
| Spec | Bombardier Challenger 3500 | Cessna Citation XLS+ |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 6.71 | $ 5.34 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Bombardier | Cessna Citation |
| Aircraft Name | Challenger 3500 | XLS+ |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 3400 | 1906 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.84 | $ 0.67 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 15950 | 7540 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 8 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 3,152 | $ 2,303 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 Advanced | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 533 | 430 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $26,950,000 | $15,500,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Flushing | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No | No |
| Jump Seat | Yes | No |
| Total Seats | 10 | 10 |
| Galley Location | FWD | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 10 | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 8.8 | 9.3 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 8 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 23338 | 25230 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | HTF73500 | PW545C |
| TBO (hrs) | On-Condition | 5000 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 15 | ISA + 10 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 7323 | 4119 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 2 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 68.7 | 52.5 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 69 | 56.3 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | Flat Floor | 0.7 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 7.2 | 5.5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 6 | 5.7 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 25.2 | 18.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 20 | 17.2 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 5.1 | 3.9 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 16.6 | 14.3 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 106 | 10 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 80 |