Textron Aviation has reported continued progress across its Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3, Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3 and Cessna Citation M2 Gen3 light jet programmes, advancing its next-generation light jet portfolio toward Federal Aviation Administration certification. The Citation CJ4 Gen3 and Citation M2 Gen3 are currently in the flight test phase of development.
All three light jets will feature Garmin Emergency Autoland. The CJ4 Gen3 also features Garmin G3000 Prime avionics.
“The Citation CJ4 Gen3 and Citation M2 Gen3 flight test milestones reflect the disciplined progress our teams are making as we bring next-generation capability to the Citation light jet lineup,” says Chris Hearne, senior vice president, engineering and programs. “Based on customer feedback, the Gen3s bring new levels of confidence and an elevated experience to pilots worldwide while providing owners and passengers with the performance, comfort and productivity they expect from a Citation.”
The Citation CJ4 Gen3 programme has accumulated more than 880 flight test hours across two test articles. Recently completed testing includes human factors simulator tests and winglet certification tests for stalls, handling qualities, and takeoff and landing performance. The aircraft continues toward expected FAA certification this year.
The Citation CJ3 Gen3 programme is expected to achieve first flight soon as it advances through its certification programme toward an expected entry into service in 2027. With nearly 20 flight test hours completed following its recent first flight, the Citation M2 Gen3 is also expected to enter service in 2027. As that programme begins its flight test phase, the team is focused on developing the runway centreline tracking and brake tuning of Garmin Emergency Autoland.
Images: Textron Aviation
