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Cessna Citation Xls vs Embraer Legacy 650 E vs Md Helicopters (mcdonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer

The Cessna Citation XLS+ and Embraer Legacy 650E are both business jets, while the MD Helicopters (McDonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer is a twin‑engine light helicopter suited to shorter, point‑to‑point missions including urban access where runways aren’t available. In range, the Legacy 650E is the long‑range option at roughly 3,900 nautical miles, enabling intercontinental-style legs depending on winds and payload. The Citation XLS+ is a midsize jet with a typical range around 2,100 nautical miles, aimed at efficient regional missions and frequent short-to-medium hops. The MD 902 Explorer’s range is far shorter—on the order of roughly 300 to 400 nautical miles—reflecting helicopter fuel fractions and operating profiles. For passenger capacity, the Legacy 650E typically seats about 13 passengers in executive configuration, the Citation XLS+ commonly seats about 7 to 9, and the MD 902 Explorer generally carries about 6 to 7 passengers (plus pilots), varying with interior and mission equipment.

SpecCessna Citation XLS+
Summary
Cockpit2
DOC / nm$ 5.34
Min Crew2
Total Seats10
ManufacturerCessna Citation
Aircraft NameXLS+
CertificationFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)1906
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.67
Max Cabin Seats9
OEM VerificationVERIFIED
Useful Load (lbs)7540
Standard Cabin Seats8
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
Cockpit2
Lavatory1 Enclosed Belted Flushing
Min Crew2
Crew RestNo
Jump SeatNo
Total Seats10
Galley LocationFWD
Max Cabin Seats9
Lavatory LocationAFT
Cabin Pressure (psi)9.3
Galley / RefreshmentGalley
Standard Cabin Seats8
SL Cabin Altitude (ft)25230
Engine
FADECYes
ModelPW545C
TBO (hrs)5000
Flat RatingISA + 10
Thrust (lbs)4119
No. of Engines2
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