Cessna Citation XLS

The Citation Excel family — XL, XLS, XLS+ — is frequently cited as the most-chartered business jet in the world. Its trick is a midsize, stand-up-height cabin mated to the operating simplicity and short-field ability of the smaller Citations, so it turns up everywhere from Van Nuys to the tightest resort strips.

As a charter passenger you feel the XLS's appeal immediately: you can walk upright to your seat, the cabin holds a real group with real luggage, and yet the price sits well below the larger iron. If your trip has outgrown a light jet, this is usually the first — and often the last — step up you need.