Textron Aviation is to make its first European delivery of the Cessna Citation XLS Gen2 in the coming weeks, to Porsche Air Service of Salzburg, Austria. The aircraft, part of the 560XL series, has gained EASA type certification.
“Achieving this milestone delivery with Porsche Air Service – a company that embodies innovative engineering and design, high-end craftsmanship, a legendary heritage and a reputation for high-performance product investments – demonstrates how perfectly aligned the features, quality and performance of the XLS Gen2 are with the priorities of our customers,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president of global sales and flight operations for Textron Aviation. “This will pave the way for deliveries of the XLS Gen2 throughout Europe.”
The Cessna Citation XLS Gen2 will support Porsche Air Service in its charter services mission throughout Europe as the company continues its five-decade history with Citations. Its fleet includes a Cessna Citation XLS+ and now the new Citation XLS Gen2. This is the 22nd Citation aircraft flown by Porsche Air Service.
“The XLS Gen2 will provide our passengers with total comfort and a top-notch flight experience,” said Hubert Lindenthaler, account manager and chief pilot at Porsche Air Service. “With the addition of the XLS Gen2 to our fleet, we will continue to deliver exceptional aircraft charter services throughout Europe.”
More than 1,000 Citation 560XLs have been delivered throughout the past 25 years, to business owners, fractional owners and charter operators. The aircraft is in the light midsize category.
Textron Aviation first unveiled plans for the Citation XLS Gen2 at NBAA-BACE in October 2021. Shaped by extensive customer feedback, the upgrades focus on technology and design.
Among the updates are a new illuminated airstair door; an entry curtain for inclement weather protection on the ground and improved cabin acoustics in flight; and improved natural lighting, styling and materials throughout the interior. There is a new pedestal seat design for enhanced passenger comfort, with individual controls, new styling and optional quilting. The forward couch features an optional fold-down capability, allowing passengers to access more baggage in flight.
The XLS Gen2 also features a wireless CMS with a touchscreen moving map monitor, wireless charging, USB charging ports at each cabin seat and optional Bongiovi Immersive speaker-less sound system.
The Citation XLS Gen2 offers speeds of up to 441 kts (817km/h) with a maximum range of 2,100 nautical miles (3,889km), a take-off field length of 3,600ft (1,097m) and climbs to 45,000ft (13,716m) in 30 minutes. The aircraft also includes increased payload capabilities and meets Stage 5 maximum noise level requirements.
