Textron Aviation today announced the launch its legendary Cessna Citation lineup, unveiling of the next generation of light jets, including Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3.
According to certain reports, the stated lineup of jets comes decked up with the revolutionary Garmin Emergency Autoland technology. Furthermore, it features new, next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics for intuitive, seamless control for pilots.
More on the same would reveal how, introduced during National Business Aviation Association — Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE) in Las Vegas, all three jets deliver at your disposal fully integrated Garmin Autothrottles to provide exceptional levels of protection and effortless precision at every stage of flight. There is also a Runway Occupancy Awareness aspect in play which gives enhanced visibility of runway obstacles and potential runway incursions, as well as Advanced 3D SafeTaxi displays runways, FBOs and hangars to more easily navigate airports.
“Today we unveiled the future of flight and the next generation of Cessna Citation light jets — the M2 Gen3, CJ3 Gen3 and CJ4 Gen3 — to carry on the iconic legacy of the trusted Citation brand while introducing cutting-edge advancements and technology,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO of Textron Aviation. “With the inclusion of revolutionary Garmin Emergency Autoland technology, as well as all-new Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics in the CJ4 Gen3, these aircraft promise to elevate the flying experience.”
Talk about each jet on a slightly deeper level, we begin from Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3, which happens to be the largest Citation aircraft in the light jet segment. You see, this single-pilot certified aircraft combines far superior speed, range, and operating economics compared to larger aircraft, making it the ideal platform for owner/operators or corporate missions.
In terms of specific features, the jet in question has a maximum range of 2,165 nm and a maximum payload of 2,200 pounds. It can hold upto 11 occupants at any given time, and to go with that, it can also carry baggage worth upto 1,040-pound.
Next up, we have Cessna Citation CJ3 Gen3, a model that features enhancements and designs influenced by passenger and pilot feedback itself. Basically, the jet packs together a flight deck equipped with the Garmin G3000 avionics system. This particular system utilizes Garmin Autothrottles and optional Enhanced Vision System (EVS) for improved navigation and optimized situational awareness. There is also 4.5 inches of added legroom for pilots.
Apart from that, the jet offers a customizable, luxurious space with amenities like swivel seating, RGB accent lighting, and modern connectivity options. A specific lowdown here would reveal a maximum range of 2,040 nm, as well as maximum payload capacity of 2,135 pounds. The jet is understood to have an occupant capacity of 10 individuals, and as for its baggage cap, it goes upto 1,000-pound
Moving on, the Cessna Citation M2 Gen3, on its part, comes with interior that prioritizes comfort. It includes wireless charging and both USB-A and USB-C ports at each seat. On top of that, the cockpit has been expanded by three inches at the co-pilot’s position to provide greater comfort.
Although unique in what they offer, all these jets happen to boast lithium-ion batteries to provide enhanced starting power and elevate reliability for more efficient cold weather operations. Furthermore, they are provided new winglets with enhanced lighting for an elevated ramp presence.
The new models also promise an enhanced experience through seamless integration of real-time data with LinxUs, doing so to support owners and operators in efficiently planning for maintenance and repairs. Alongside that, they have industry-leading cabin acoustics to create an exceptional experience for everyone on board.
The jets’ upgraded flight deck lighting even treads up a long distance in the context of relaying illumination where pilots need it. This includes map lighting, overhead flood lighting, and even side pocket lighting. In case that wasn’t quite enough, Citation CJ4 Gen3 has nearly 10 percent lower operating costs than its closest competitors.
