Cessna 208b Grand Caravan Ex vs Cessna Citation Xls vs Robinson R66
The Cessna 208B Grand Caravan EX is a rugged single‑engine turboprop utility aircraft, optimized for short/rough fields and high payload rather than speed. It typically offers a range around 900–1,200 nautical miles depending on load and reserves, and commonly carries 9–14 passengers in commuter configurations (with higher density possible for special missions). The Cessna Citation XLS+ is a midsize business jet built for fast, high‑altitude travel and comfort. Its typical range is about 2,000–2,100 nautical miles, and it generally seats 8–9 passengers in an executive layout (sometimes up to 12, depending on interior). The Robinson R66 is a single‑engine turbine helicopter focused on short‑range flexibility, including point‑to‑point access without runways. Its typical range is roughly 300–350 nautical miles, and it usually carries 4 passengers plus a pilot (5 seats total). Overall, the XLS+ leads on range and speed, the Grand Caravan EX leads on utility and passenger/cargo flexibility, and the R66 leads on access and landing versatility.
| Spec | Cessna Citation XLS+ |
|---|---|
| Summary | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 5.34 |
| Min Crew | 2 |
| Total Seats | 10 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation |
| Aircraft Name | XLS+ |
| Certification | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1906 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.67 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 7540 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,303 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 430 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $15,500,000 |
| Cabin | |
| Cockpit | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing |
| Min Crew | 2 |
| Crew Rest | No |
| Jump Seat | No |
| Total Seats | 10 |
| Galley Location | FWD |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 9.3 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 25230 |
| Engine | |
| FADEC | Yes |
| Model | PW545C |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 10 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 4119 |
| No. of Engines | 2 |
| Dimensions | |
| Length (ft) | 52.5 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 56.3 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.7 |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 5.7 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 18.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 17.2 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.9 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 14.3 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 80 |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 10 |