Cessna Citation Gen3 light jet programmes continue to advance toward certification

Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, today announced the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3, Citation CJ3 Gen3 and Citation M2 Gen3 programmes have accumulated more than 1,220 combined flight test hours as the company continues to advance the next generation of Citation light jets toward Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification.

All three Citation Gen3 aircraft provide next-generation capability, pilot-focused innovation and added customer confidence. Each aircraft features Garmin Emergency Autoland, a revolutionary system which, if activated in the event of a pilot incapacitation or another emergency, guides the aircraft to a suitable landing site and brings it to a complete stop. The Citation CJ4 Gen3 is expected to be the first light jet to market with this capability. The programme has logged nearly 1,100 flight test hours across two test articles; recent activities include hot weather and electrical system certification testing.

Reaching more than 60 flight test hours, the Citation CJ3 Gen3 programme is currently focusing on landing and braking performance on the test article. The Citation M2 Gen3 has accumulated more than 75 hours, and the programme is nearing the start of simulated enroute emergency activation including airport selection and autoland to a full stop.

About the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3

The Cessna Citation CJ4 is the largest Citation aircraft in the light jet segment. The single-pilot certified aircraft combines superior speed, range and operating economics compared to larger aircraft, making it the ideal platform for owner/operators or corporate missions. The CJ4 is valued by customers around the world for luxury and productivity, as well as a wide range of missions including air ambulance, maritime patrol, search and rescue and aerial survey.

The CJ4 Gen3 offers pilots next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics, with intuitive, seamless control to the flight deck. Bringing a new level of expectations to the world of light business jets, the CJ4 Gen3 offers the most standard features in its class.

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 is expected to feature a maximum range of 2,165 nm and a maximum cruise speed of 451 ktas. With seating for up to 11 occupants and a 6,930-pound useful load, the aircraft offers superior performance and versatility.

About the Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3

The Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 cabin offers a customisable, luxurious space with amenities like swivel seating, RGB accent lighting and modern connectivity options, alongside a naturally lit lavatory with optional upscale features.

The Citation CJ3 Gen3 features a maximum range of 2,040 nm and a maximum payload of 2,135 pounds. With standard seating for up to 10 occupants and a 1,000-pound baggage capacity, the aircraft offers excellent range, payload and superior field performance to enable pilots to achieve a variety of missions.

About the Cessna Citation M2 Gen3

With the introduction of the new Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, Textron Aviation invested in enhancements that focus on comfort and productivity for both pilot and passengers. The M2 Gen3 interior incorporates premium styling, ambient lighting, illuminated cupholders and an optional folding side-facing seat that doubles as extra cargo space. Cabin technology includes wireless charging and both USB-A and USB-C ports, supporting passenger productivity.

The Citation M2 Gen3 boasts a maximum range of 1,550 nm and a maximum payload of 1,510 pounds. Featuring a seating capacity for up to eight occupants and a baggage capacity of up to 725 pounds, the M2 Gen3 is an entry-level jet with a focus on passenger confidence, comfort and productivity.