Cessna Citation Xls vs Pilatus Pc 12 Ngx
The Cessna Citation XLS+ and Pilatus PC-12 NGX sit in different categories with different strengths. The Citation XLS+ is a light business jet designed for higher cruise speeds and typical jet operations, while the PC-12 NGX is a single‑engine turboprop known for versatility and strong short/rough-field capability. In range, the XLS+ generally offers greater nonstop reach at higher speeds, commonly around the ~2,000‑nautical‑mile class depending on load and conditions. The PC-12 NGX is typically in the ~1,500–1,800‑nautical‑mile class, also highly dependent on payload, reserves, and cruise profile. For passenger capacity, the XLS+ is usually configured for about 7 to 9 passengers in a standard corporate layout. The PC-12 NGX commonly seats about 6 to 10, and in high-density commuter-style configurations can accommodate more, though many executive interiors are set up similarly to a light jet in headcount but with a different cabin feel and mission focus.
| Spec | Cessna Citation XLS+ | Pilatus PC-12 NGX |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 5.34 | $ 2.78 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Manufacturer | Cessna Citation | Pilatus |
| Aircraft Name | XLS+ | PC-12 NGX |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 1906 | 1803 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.67 | $ 0.46 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 9 |
| OEM Verification | VERIFIED | VERIFIED |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 7540 | — |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,303 | $ 793 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 | Honeywell Primus Apex |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 430 | 290 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $15,500,000 | $5,350,000 |
| Flight Rules | — | IFR |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Lavatory | 1 Enclosed Belted Flushing | Optional |
| Min Crew | 2 | 1 |
| Crew Rest | No | — |
| Jump Seat | No | — |
| Total Seats | 10 | 8 |
| Galley Location | FWD | — |
| Max Cabin Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Lavatory Location | AFT | FWD |
| Cabin Pressure (psi) | 9.3 | 5.8 |
| Galley / Refreshment | Galley | No |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 8 | 6 |
| SL Cabin Altitude (ft) | 25230 | 13100 |
| Cargo Door | — | Yes |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | PW545C | PT6E-67XP |
| TBO (hrs) | 5000 | 5000 |
| Flat Rating | ISA + 10 | ISA + 35 |
| Thrust (lbs) | 4119 | — |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 1 |
| Horsepower | — | 1200 |
| Usable Fuel (gal) | — | 402 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 52.5 | 47.25 |
| Wingspan (ft) | 56.3 | 53.33 |
| Aisle Step (ft) | 0.7 | — |
| Cabin Width (ft) | 5.5 | 5 |
| Cabin Height (ft) | 5.7 | 4.9 |
| Cabin Length (ft) | 18.5 | 16.9 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 17.2 | 14 |
| Cabin Width - Floor (ft) | 3.9 | 4.25 |
| Cabin Length - Seating (ft) | 14.3 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 80 | — |
| Baggage Volume Int. (cu. ft) | 10 | 40 |