Two class leaders, one decision
The Embraer Phenom 300 and the Cessna Citation XLS are the best-sellers of their categories, the Phenom in light jets, the XLS in the midsize class. On a one to three-hour trip they overlap heavily, so the choice comes down to a simple trade-off: speed and cost (Phenom) vs cabin space and comfort (XLS).
Side by side
| Phenom 300 | Citation XLS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Light jet | Midsize |
| Passengers | 7–9 | 8–9 |
| Cruise speed | 453 kt (~840 km/h) | 433 kt (~800 km/h) |
| Range | 1,971 nm (~3,650 km) | 1,989 nm (~3,685 km) |
| Cabin length × height | 5.24 × 1.49 m | 5.70 × 1.74 m |
| Baggage | 2.38 m³ | 2.27 m³ |
| Charter rate (approx.) | ~€7,720/h | ~€9,310/h |
Speed and range
The Phenom 300 is the faster aircraft, about 453 knots against the XLS's 433, while both cover a near-identical ~1,980 nm, enough for Madrid–Moscow or London–Cairo nonstop. On a short European hop that speed edge is marginal in minutes, but over three hours the Phenom lands first.
Cabin and comfort
This is where the XLS earns its premium. Its cabin is longer and noticeably taller (1.74 m vs 1.49 m), close to stand-up, where the Phenom is a sit-down cabin. For four to six passengers on a short flight the Phenom is perfectly comfortable; for a full cabin of eight, or flights over two hours, the XLS's extra room is worth it.
Cost
The Phenom 300 charters at roughly €7,720/h against ~€9,310/h for the XLS, about 20% less. On a one-hour hop the gap is small; on longer or repeated flights it adds up.
The verdict
Choose the Phenom 300 for speed, efficiency and best value on short-to-medium trips with four to six passengers. Choose the Citation XLS when cabin comfort matters, a full party, taller passengers, or two-hour-plus flights. Tell us your route and party size and we'll confirm the right aircraft and return an all-inclusive quote in minutes, 24/7.