Textron Aviation has completed the first production Cessna Citation Ascend, which has rolled out from its manufacturing site in Wichita, Kansas. The aircraft is expected to secure FAA certification before the end of the year.

Employees gathered to celebrate the milestone for the 560XL series. “Today is a big celebration and thank you to everyone who has been a part of building up to this point. It is your craftsmanship that continues to make milestones like this possible,” said Todd McKee, senior vice president, Integrated Supply Chain at Textron Aviation. “By infusing new technology and bringing new features to the market, we continue to drive the future for us to build these legendary aircraft.”

More than 1,000 Citation 560XL aircraft have been delivered over the past 25 years. Owners and operators choose the series for its performance, comfort, ease of operation, versatility and efficiency.

The Citation Ascend incorporates customer feedback, with features including a flat floor, Pratt & Whitney Canada PW545D engines, Garmin G5000 avionics with autothrottle, and a Honeywell RE100 [XL] APU. Standard cabin equipment includes 19 USB charging ports, three universal outlets and seating for nine passengers.